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The Bank of England Museum

The Bank of England Museum is located on the eastern side of the Bank of England. The museum is open to the public, free of charge, on weekdays only and on the day of the Lord Mayor's Show.

The Bank of England Museum tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the United Kingdom's central bank

Standing at the centre of the UK's financial system, the Bank is committed to promoting and maintaining financial stability as its contribution to a healthy economy. The Bank sets interest rates to control inflation, issues banknotes and works to maintain a stable financial system.

Collections

Having been in existence for more than 300 years the Bank of England has, unsurprisingly, accumulated a considerable number of items associated with its history. These items are grouped into 'Collections'. Some of them, such as banknotes and furniture, represent the survival of tools used in the everyday working of the Bank whilst others, such as the cartoons, have been acquired over the years either by purchase or presentation. Items from the Bank's collections are displayed in its Museum where they are used to illustrate the history of the institution and its role today at the centre of the UK economy.

Banknotes

The Bank of England has been issuing banknotes for over 300 years. During that time, both the notes themselves and their role in society have undergone continual change. From today's perspective, it is easy to accept that a piece of paper that costs a few pence to produce is worth five, ten, twenty or fifty pounds. Gaining and maintaining public confidence in the currency is a key role of the Bank of England and one which is essential to the proper functioning of the economy.

Exhibition and Events

Special exhibitions and events take place in the Museum throughout the year. These range from exhibitions on aspects of the Bank of England's work and history, often including items from the Bank's collections that are not on public display, to activities for children during school holidays, and seasonal craft and concert events. The diary of Events & Activities lists the forthcoming attractions for 2010. Don't forget to book ahead if you would like one of our popular Talks. Past Exhibitions takes a brief look at the special exhibitions held since 2000 and recent events in the Museum.

Walking through Time

Here you can find out more about some of the people and events that have shaped the Bank of England. Go to the Timeline to find out what happened on 27 key dates in the Bank's history, starting with its foundation in 1694 and ending with the decision to give it responsibility to set the interest rate in 1997. Buildings & architects features the four architects most closely associated with the development of the Bank's Threadneedle Street site from the small, purpose-built premises of 1734 to the impressive structure it occupies today. Stories from the Past tells unexpected tales of the Bank, a nun, a giant and a sewer man. And Did You Know? Perhaps you do, but you can't be sure until you've checked!

Kid’s corner

Here you can have some fun. Try their quizzes to see how much you have learned about the Bank of England while looking at their Museum website. If you want to brush up your knowledge before you start, they suggest you take the virtual tour, walk through time and look at the collections and the "did you know?" pages. This will get you off to a great start.