Open Door at the Bank of England Museum

When will the interest rate go up? Um, quite soon? That sort of insight’s not exactly within Time Out’s remit, but what we can tell you is this weekend there’s a chance to see the room where the decision will be made. As part of the City of London Festival, the Bank of England Museum, which is normally closed at the weekend, will open on two Saturdays in July. As well as a chance to explore the collection (less dry than you might think), there’s a rare opportunity to join a guided tour of the bank itself, including the famous committee room where the Monetary Policy Committee meets monthly to set the bank rate. The tours reveal a surprising amount of wildlife: sculpted lions on the Bank’s bronze doors, the golden owls of the Committee Room and the griffins and snakes of Sir Robert Taylor’s Court Room, as well the laurels, olives and oaks which decorate mosaics throughout the building. A visit to the museum's new exhibition 'Flora and Fauna' is also included. Half-hour guided tours take place throughout the day; there's no need to book but last admission is at 4pm.