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Is your Instagram feed full of influencers hanging off of ceilings? Well, don’t be fooled, they’ve probably just paid a visit to the Museum of Illusions. Despite having nearly 70 locations worldwide, there’s currently only one in the UK, and that’s in Manchester. That is, until May. Good news for London-dwellers – the museum brand is opening a second British branch for us (well, and for the tourists).
Not to be muddled with other mind-bending London museums like the Paradox Museum or the Twist Museum, the new Museum of Illusions will include a never-before-seen spooky ‘Ghost Room’ exhibit. We’re not sure what level of concern photos of this room will unleash on your Instagram followers, but it sounds intriguing.
You don’t have to be a frequent social media user to enjoy the museum. It also boasts plenty of opportunities to learn about the ‘scientific principles’ of the exhibits and figure out how the illusions work. Edifying!
Expect new ‘gravity-defying’ illusions that make it seem like you’re hanging off a building and a ‘Reversed Room’ inspired by London’s history and landmarks. Take a peek at the Manchester branch’s train carriage illusion to get an idea of what this might look like.
If the Science Museum didn’t make you feel sufficiently immersed in space, the Museum of Illusions also offers the chance to navigate the cosmos through its popular and ‘seemingly real vortex’. Your challenge is to walk across a bridge encapsulated by a rotating kaleidoscopic tunnel, without feeling dizzy (don’t worry, it’s family-friendly).
Kim Schaefer, CEO of Museums of Illusions, said: ‘We are incredibly excited to bring Museum of Illusions to the UK’s capital. London is one of the world’s most dynamic cultural and tourism destinations, making it the perfect home for our next opening.’
The mind-bending museum will open on Tottenham Court Road in May, but further details are yet to be announced. Prices haven’t been confirmed for the London outpost, but the Manchester Museum of Illusions charges £21.50-£29.50, depending on the time. Tickets are available for purchase from April 27.
Museum of Illusions, 6-17 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 1BJ.
Did you see that The Bayeux Tapestry is coming to London this year – and it will be free to visit for millions of Londoners.
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