Ancient Artifacts: Your Quick Guide to London’s Hidden History

London isn’t just about red buses and the Tube. Under the streets and inside a few museums you’ll find objects that are thousands of years old. Whether you’re a history junkie or just curious, this guide shows you where to see ancient artifacts and how to make the most of each visit.

Where to Find Ancient Artifacts in London

The British Museum is the obvious first stop. Its ground floor houses the famous Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and a massive collection of Roman jewellery. Get there early, grab a free audio guide, and head straight to the South Wing where the Roman London Room sits. You’ll see pottery shards, coins, and a tiny bronze figure that once helped daily life in the ancient city.

If you prefer something less crowded, head to the Museum of London. The “London Before the Tower” exhibit displays wooden posts from the Roman walls, a Saxon axe, and a Celtic shield recovered from the Thames. They keep the pieces behind glass, but the display is set up so you can see the actual size and texture of each item.

For a surprise find, check out St. Paul’s Cathedral crypt. While most visitors focus on the dome, the crypt holds a few medieval relics, including a 12th‑century altar stone and a small bronze crucifix. You’ll need to join a guided tour (they run every hour) – the guide will point out the hidden artifacts and give quick back‑story facts.

Don’t overlook smaller spots like the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Architecture Gallery. A few Roman bricks from a lost temple are displayed among the decorative pieces. It’s a quick stop, but the context they give about building techniques is fascinating.

Tips for Exploring Hidden Relics Like a Pro

1. **Visit on free entry days** – Most big museums have a free‑entry window (usually the first Saturday of each month). You’ll beat the crowds and have more time to look at each artifact.

2. **Use the free audio guides** – They’re designed to keep the talk short and useful. You’ll hear why a particular coin matters without wading through long plaques.

3. **Carry a small notebook** – Jot down the name of any artifact that catches your eye. A quick note helps you remember why it was interesting when you’re later scrolling through online photos.

4. **Check out temporary exhibitions** – London museums rotate special shows. A few months ago the British Museum hosted a “Roman Britain” exhibit that added dozens of new finds from recent digs.

5. **Take advantage of staff expertise** – If you see a docent or curator, ask them a question. They love sharing a quick story about a weirdly shaped jar or a broken sword.

Finally, give yourself time to just wander. Some of the best discoveries happen when you pause at a display you hadn’t planned to see. The city’s ancient artifacts are anywhere from polished marble statues to a handful of pottery fragments tucked in a corner. With this guide, you’ve got the basics to start hunting, and you’ll walk away with a better feel for the layers of history hidden beneath London’s modern hustle.