The Independent

UK’s Free Museums Are in Trouble. Should Tourists Start Paying?

UK museums, long celebrated for free entry, are confronting severe financial strain as government arts funding has fallen 18% since 2010 and visitor numbers dip post‑pandemic. Major institutions such as the National Gallery face an £8.2 million deficit, prompting staff cuts and reduced programmes. A recent Museums Association survey shows 61% of museums plan service reductions for 2024‑25, while private philanthropy and ticketed exhibitions only partially offset the shortfall. Policymakers are debating a modest tourist levy, projected to raise £1.2 billion annually, as a sustainable bridge between public funding and private support.