– This post was written by Millicent Horsnell –
Madame Tussauds is a world-renowned wax museum that has been a landmark attraction in London since 1835. Founded by Marie Tussaud, a French wax sculptor, the museum first opened on Baker Street and moved to its current location on Marylebone Road in 1884. Operated by Merlin Entertainments, Madame Tussauds now features locations around the globe. The wax museum in London remains its flagship.
With over 150 lifelike wax figures, the museum offers an array of zones and immersive experiences. Historical figures, contemporary icons, and characters from film and television populate the exhibits.
The museum did not start as the polished, high-tech attraction it is today. One of the early draws was the Chamber of Horrors, showcasing death masks from the French Revolution. Over the years, the museum has adapted to cultural shifts, adding figures and zones to keep visitors of all ages enthralled.
Where is Madame Tussauds?
The flagship Madame Tussauds is located on Marylebone Road in London, a short walk from Baker Street station. This central location makes it easily accessible for both residents and tourists.
Beyond the wax museum in London, Madame Tussauds has expanded globally with significant locations in Amsterdam, New York, Hong Kong, Sydney, Berlin, Shanghai, and most recently Dubai. Each of these locations features unique exhibits and figures tailored to the cultural landmarks and history of their respective cities.
10 Things You Can’t Miss at Madame Tussauds London
1. Enola Holmes
Visit the new Baker Street Studios zone and meet Millie Bobby Brown as Enola Holmes. The figure is set in a replica of the Enola Holmes Detective Agency, allowing you to solve a case.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by interactive elements that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Sherlockian mystery. Every detail, from the wallpaper to the desk accessories, has been carefully crafted to be a part of your sleuthing experience.
2. Harry Styles
Catch British singer and global superstar Harry Styles in the Awards Party zone. His figure is dressed in a green Gucci suit worn during the “My Policeman” premiere, meticulously recreated to highlight his fashion-forward style. This is Harry’s first solo appearance since he originally debuted with One Direction. Stand among glittering award statues and learn fun facts about Harry’s career milestones.
3. Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s figure, in the Impossible Festival zone, is adorned in a sequined playsuit from UK label Rosa Bloom, replicating her look at the iHeartRadio Awards.
The sculptors paid incredible attention to detail, right down to her nails. Taylor’s career spans numerous Grammys, Billboard Music Awards, and a significant influence on pop culture. The zone also features a multimedia display of her live performances, capturing the essence of her onstage charisma.
4. Timothée Chalamet
Find Timothée Chalamet in the Culture Capital zone, styled in an Alexander McQueen suit from the London premiere of “Dune: Part One.” The wax figure celebrates his versatile career in Hollywood. His figure stands among other cultural heavyweights, reminding visitors of his meteoric rise in the film industry. A digital backdrop displays scenes from his acclaimed films, further spotlighting his acting prowess.
5. Marvel Hall of Heroes
Marvel fans will be thrilled by this zone’s array of life-sized figures. Get up close with Iron Man in a test lab and Captain America’s iconic suit and shield.
Other key figures include Spider-Man, who you can “hang out” with in an inverted office, and the massive 4.5 meters tall Hulk, the largest figure ever created by Madame Tussauds. The zone is lined with multimedia displays detailing the journeys of each superhero, improving your connection to their stories.
6. Star Wars
Explore the Star Wars zone and see incredibly lifelike wax figures of characters like Darth Vader, Yoda, and Princess Leia. The zone was developed with Disney and Lucasfilm, incorporating scenes from classic Star Wars episodes.
Highlights include the Millennium Falcon, where Chewbacca stands ready for action, and Jabba the Hutt’s Throne Room. Various props and costumes, directly from the films, add an authentic touch to this intergalactic experience.
7. Culture Capital
This section celebrates icons from British culture, such as Sir David Attenborough and Stormzy. You can even test your reflexes on the Batak machine with Lewis Hamilton or experience professional boxing with Anthony Joshua.
This journey through modern British contributions covers everything from sports to music. Interactive kiosks provide detailed biographies and achievements, making each figure’s significance clear.
8. The Royal Palace
Walk through the gates of Buckingham Palace and into the Royal Palace zone. Pose for selfies with the Prince and Princess of Wales, or step into the throne room with King Charles III.
The zone also features historical figures like Queen Elizabeth I, making it a must-see for anyone fascinated by British royalty. The environment evokes all the grandeur and history associated with the British monarchy, complete with period-specific décor.
9. The Fashion Runway
Show off your style at the fashion show and mingle with icons like Cara Delevingne and RuPaul. You can even pose next to Zendaya or Victoria and David Beckham.
Get a drink at the Coca-Cola bar and embrace your inner fashionista by strutting your stuff on the runway. Multimedia screens display iconic fashion weeks from around the world, immersing you in the latest trends and timeless styles.
10. Awards Party
Walk the red carpet and take behind-the-scenes photos with figures like John Boyega, Brad Pitt, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone. Hit the “Let’s Dance” button to get the party started with Lil Nas X, or prepare your acceptance speech on the main stage.
This zone is an exclusive peek into the glamorous world of A-list celebrities. The area is designed to replicate an awards night atmosphere, with spotlights and crowd sound effects adding to the excitement.
General Information
📅Opening Hours
Madame Tussauds London is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with the last entry at 5 PM. Adjustments may occur on special occasions and public holidays.
⏱️Best Time to Visit
To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The first tours of the day and afternoons post-2 PM tend to be quieter, making it easier for you to enjoy your visit without the rush.
For an even more serene experience, consider attending one of the “Quiet Sessions” on selected dates. These sessions feature limited tickets, reduced music volume, and lower lighting, making them suitable for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
📍How to Get There
Madame Tussauds London is located on Marylebone Road, a two-minute walk from Baker Street underground station. This station serves the Jubilee, Bakerloo, Hammersmith & City, Circle, and Metropolitan lines, making it easily accessible from various parts of London. Upon exiting the station, take a short walk that takes you past shops and cafes, giving you a taste of the area’s vibrant atmosphere.
If bus travel is more convenient for you, several routes stop nearby, including the 18, 27, 30, and 205. These buses traverse key areas in London, making it easy to plan your trip.
For those arriving by train, Marylebone Station is a mere ten-minute walk from Madame Tussauds. This short stroll will allow you to soak in the classic London architecture and bustling streets that define the Marylebone area.
When travelling by car, you’ll find parking options in nearby car parks such as those on Chiltern Street and Gloucester Place. Please note that there is no on-site parking at Madame Tussauds. It’s advisable to check parking availability and rates beforehand. Alternatively, you might consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service for a hassle-free experience.
Additionally, if you prefer to cycle, several cycle hire stations are located near the attraction. This option allows you to enjoy a leisurely bike ride through central London while reaching your destination efficiently.