Inside V&A East Storehouse—London Mind-Blowing New Free Museum

Do you know London’s cultural scene just got a thrilling upgrade with the V&A East Storehouse, a free museum that opened on May 31, 2025, in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. 

However, this isn’t your typical gallery; it’s a 16,000-square-meter “backstage pass” to 250,000 artifacts, from samurai swords to David Bowie’s iconic costumes, all open for you to explore. 

Moreover, it is located just 33 miles from London Stansted Airport, it’s easy to reach with 247 Airport Taxi. Inspired by its groundbreaking design and East London’s creative vibe, this guide post gives you a first look at the V&A East Storehouse, what makes it special, and how to enjoy it in 2025.

What Makes V&A East Storehouse Unique

The V&A East Storehouse, located at Here East in Stratford, redefines museums by turning storage into a public adventure. Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, it occupies a former 2012 Olympics media center, part of the £1.1 billion East Bank cultural hub, alongside Sadler’s Wells East and the upcoming V&A East Museum (spring 2026). Unlike traditional museums, it offers open access to over 250,000 objects, 350,000 books, and 1,000 archives, previously tucked away at Blythe House.

It’s “inside-out” design lets you wander among working storage racks, watch conservators restore artifacts, and even request any item to view up close. Aimed at East London’s diverse communities, it expects 250,000 visitors yearly, making art and design feel personal and inclusive.

Must-See Artifacts and Displays

The Storehouse’s collection is a treasure chest of global creativity, spanning 5,000 years. 

Here are highlights:

• Historic Gems: A 15th-century Torrijos Palace ceiling from Spain and a fragment of Robin Hood Gardens, a demolished East London estate.
• Modern Icons: Vivienne Westwood jackets, Schiaparelli haute couture, and Elton John’s stage outfits.
• Local Treasures: A 17th-century Hackney schoolgirl’s embroidered sampler and a 1980s Hackney feminist poster.
• David Bowie Centre: Opening September 13, 2025, with 80,000 items, including Ziggy Stardust costumes and “Heroes” lyrics.

Thus, over 100 mini-displays in the Weston Collections Hall, curated to spark curiosity, mix ancient Egyptian shoes with 1950s Dior heels. The eclectic mix feels like rummaging through history’s attic.

Your Visitor Experience

Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM (until 10 PM Thursdays and Saturdays), the Storehouse is free, though peak times may have queues. 

Here’s what to expect:

• Explore Freely: Roam four floors of open shelves via 1.6-meter-wide walkways, with glass floors revealing artifacts below.
• Order an Object: Book online from May 13, 2025, to view any item (e.g., a samurai sword or Bowie’s sketches) in a study room, free. V&A introduced the “Order an Object” service.
• Conservation Live: Watch experts restore items like medieval armor through glass-walled studios.
• Interactive Fun: Scan QR codes for object stories or join daily “Object Encounters” group talks.
• Relax and Eat: The E5 Bakehouse cafe serves East London’s finest sourdough and coffee.

Moreover, wear comfy shoes for the metal grid floors and check the official website for sensory guides.

How to Plan Your Visit

Make your trip to this London free museum 2025 a breeze with these tips:

• Book Early: Reserve “Order an Object” slots two weeks ahead, as they fill fast.
• Best Times: Visit weekdays or before 11 AM to dodge crowds.
• Getting There: Take the Elizabeth Line to Stratford station (8-minute walk via Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park). The address is 2 Parkes St, Stratford Cross, E20 3AX.
• Pack Light: Bring a small bag and phone for QR codes; large bags may need checking.
• Explore Nearby: Visit Sadler’s Wells East or Hackney Wick’s artsy bars after.

Thus, the Storehouse’s May 31, 2025, opening makes it a hot spot for summer visitors.

Key Visitor Info

• Location: V&A East Storehouse, Olympic Park, Stratford, London

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Daily

• Entry: Always free

• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible

• Nearest Tube: Stratford or Hackney Wick

Accessibility and Community

The Storehouse is built for everyone:

• Inclusive Access: Free companion tickets for disabled visitors (apply by May 23, 2025, at accessibility@vam.ac.uk), plus lifts and accessible toilets.
• Sensory Support: Visual stories and quiet hours for neurodiverse visitors.
• Local Engagement: The V&A East Youth Collective shapes events, celebrating East London’s creative spirit.

Therefore, it’s a space where all feels welcome. 

Easy Travel with 247 Airport Taxi from London Stansted

• Ride with the Best London Stansted Airport Taxi Services in a reliable taxi to V&A East Storehouse, just 33 miles away.
• Get a comfy taxi from London Stansted Airport to Stratford for approximately £69 one-way, with fixed rates for solo or group travelers.
• Trust the punctual taxi service London Stansted Airport for a stress-free travel, with door-to-door ease.
• 247 Airport Taxi also offers affordable taxis from London to Stansted Airport.
• Pre-book your airport transfers, 24/7 via our website or call us at +447777717247. We offer meet-and-greet and flight tracking services. So, you can experience your museum visit stress-free.

Final Thoughts

In short, the V&A East Storehouse, opened May 31, 2025, is a game-changer for London free museum 2025 seekers, offering hands-on access to 250,000 objects, from ancient relics to Bowie’s legacy. This V&A East Storehouse 2025 adventure is a must-visit for art lovers. 

Book your Best London Stansted Airport Taxi Services at 247airporttaxi.co.uk for a hassle-free travel and explore this UK treasure in East London.