The Museum of Illusions has opened in London, marking the second UK location for the global museum chain known for mind-bending exhibits that delve into the science behind perception.

A man lies over an art installation of a vortex in front of St Paul's Cathedral

Source: Museum of Illusions

The illusion installation was used to mark the museum’s opening.

The museum features interactive illusion rooms and mind-bending optical trickery to provide an immersive experience for all ages, exploring the physics and psychology of vision. 

A ten-foot wide ‘swirling vortex’ was installed in the capital to celebrate the opening of the Museum of Illusions on 8th May. Set against the backdrop of St Paul’s Cathedral, the optical illusion was used to offer a taster of the experiences visitors could expect when the attraction opened. 

This is the latest opening for the global museum brand which launched in Croatia in 2015 and has since expanded to over 60 locations across 28 destinations, including Amsterdam, Dubai and the United States, all with unique city-specific exhibits. 

Kids interact with illusion displays

Source: Rebekah Middleton

The installations can be used to teach the psychology of vision and perspective.

London opening for Museum of Illusions

The attraction on Tottenham Court Road features over 70 installations, including an interactive display of 10 Downing Street where visitors can climb the façade and hang from the famous black door. Other rooms include a flipped perspective of a ‘typical’ London street with a red phone box and recognisable road signs, plus classic illusions such as the Walk-In Kaleidoscope, Vortex Tunnel and Infinity Room. 

Kim Schaefer, CEO at Museum of Illusions said: “We’re really excited to be bringing Museum of Illusions to London, a city full of creativity, curiosity, and culture. It feels like the perfect place for our most ambitious experience yet.”

A girl looks into a mirror prism

Source: Rebekah Middleton

The London attraction features classic illusions and themed rooms.

“Opening in London is a big step for our brand as we continue to grow around the world. More and more people are looking for fun, hands-on experiences, and we see a great opportunity to be part of that in major cultural cities. After the great response to our Manchester location, this new opening shows how committed we are to the UK and to growing the Museum of Illusions brand globally.”

School visits and educational links

The museum offers engaging, curriculum-linked school visits built around science, maths, art and psychology. Through the interactive illusion rooms and hands-on exhibits, pupils can explore perception, optics, geometry and problem-solving. Visits are self-guided, allowing teachers to set their own learning focus, with clear explanations showing the science behind each illusion.

A family look at illusion drawings on a wall

Source: Rebekah Middleton

As well as immersive rooms, some displays explore the science behind illusions.

School groups benefit from discounted rates and flexible booking with teachers and supervising adults receiving free admission. Pre-visit learning resources are available. 

Plan your school visit to the Museum of Illusions and book tickets by visiting moilondon.uk.