New London Museum to Reopen as a Vibrant Social Hub in Smithfield
The new London Museum will open on Nov. 28 in converted market halls in Smithfield, shifting from a traditional repository to a “social space” featuring dinner clubs and DJ sets, according to director Sharon Ament. The £437 million project is funded by the Mayor of London, the Corporation of London, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Why is the London Museum changing its approach?
Director Sharon Ament says the institution is moving away from being a mere repository for collections to become a “democratic” space. The goal is to integrate the museum into the daily rhythms of Londoners, including commuters passing through on their way to work.
Ament argues that museums should match their opening times to how people actually live. This includes hosting late-night club nights and afternoon tea events to offer a different form of “going out.” She noted that the move into a market environment naturally encourages this social shift, as markets are inherently public hubs.
This strategy marks a departure from what Ament describes as the “obsessions of academics” who historically focused on niche stories for small audiences. Instead, the new model prioritizes public interaction and accessibility.
What will visitors find at the Smithfield site?
The museum is housed in two historic former market halls in the City of London. Paul Williams, principal director of the architects Stanton Williams, describes the site as an “arena for public life” rather than just a container for objects.
The design features a glazed former London street that connects the cavernous halls. The Victorian General Market’s former trading floor will host cultural events, starting with “London Tastes,” a program highlighting the city’s diverse food scene.
While the museum possesses 7 million artefacts, Ament clarified that not all will be on display simultaneously; some will remain in storage. However, the site will showcase high-profile acquisitions, including a 2024 Banksy police sentry box decorated with piranhas.
How does the new museum differ from the Barbican location?
The institution, previously known as the Museum of London, vacated its “eccentric” premises in the Barbican complex in 2022. The transition represents a shift in both physical architecture and institutional philosophy.
| Feature | Barbican Era | Smithfield Era |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Collection repository | Social space/Public arena |
| Atmosphere | Eccentric/Institutional | Market-style/Democratic |
| Visitor Use | Traditional gallery visits | Commuting, dining, clubbing |
Which key artefacts will be on display?
The museum will blend historical treasures with modern urban oddities. According to museum records, the collection includes the vest worn by Charles I during his 1649 beheading and the Cheapside Hoard of 17th-century jewelry.
Recent additions bring a contemporary edge to the galleries. The Bloomberg Collection, featuring 14,000 Roman artefacts found during the construction of the Bloomberg headquarters in 2014, was donated to the museum last year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new London Museum open?
It officially opens to the public on November 28.
Where is the new museum located?
The museum is located in the City of London, within two converted historic market halls in Smithfield.
How was the project funded?
The £437 million cost was covered by the Corporation of London, the Mayor of London, and donors including the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Will all 7 million artefacts be on display?
No. Director Sharon Ament stated that while the collection is vast, some items will be displayed while others will be kept in storage.
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