London is so full of attractions that you would need a lifetime to see them all. One thing you definitely shouldn’t miss out on, however, is Ripley’s museum. Ripley’s Believe It or Not is home to some of the most fascinatingly fun exhibits out there and they are perfect for travellers who want to experience something that is out of the ordinary.
Opened in 2008, Ripley’s museum in London is one of the largest of all in the franchise, with over 700 artefacts housed in their crazy collection of galleries, spread over 5 floors. Why should you visit it, you’re wondering? Here are some of the highlights:
Unusual Artefacts and exhibits
Among the bizarre exhibits you can find in the museum, some of the most amazing ones include a Mini-Cooper encrusted with a million Swarovski crystals, a two-headed calf, a 4-metre long Tower Bridge model made entirely of matchsticks, and a portrait of Princess Diana that was made out of laundry lint form a dryer. Also, you will want to check out the three Amazonian shrunken heads it hosts, as well as the upside down room.
The Black Hole
Another one of the reasons that make Ripley’s Believe It or Not a great destination for those looking to experience something out of the ordinary is the Black Hole. This is a mind-blowing vortex tunnel that will put your senses to the test. As I was walking through the twisting tunnel, the walkway seemed to move beneath my feet and I had to cling on for balance.
The Mirror Maze
The mirror maze consists of a series of arches and columns surrounded by hundreds of mirrored reflections, creating the illusion of infinite hallways and numerous “copies” of you. The more visitors are in the maze, the more confusing everything gets!
Important Tips for Parents
Even though kids of all ages are allowed in the museum (those under 7 must be accompanied by an adult), you might want to avoid taking your child to the Dungeon Zone. Some of the exhibits there, though I thoroughly enjoyed them, may be a bit too much even for an adult, if they’re of a more sensitive nature.
Also, in the Mirror Maze, you should keep a tight rein on your kids and make sure they don’t get lost or run through a mirrored wall.
Final Thoughts
Ripley’s Believe It or Not appeals to anyone who likes oddities and has a sense of curiosity. Though the tickets aren’t exactly cheap, this is definitely an experience you will remember for a long time, no matter your age.
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