ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

UK Government Proposes Tourist Fees for National Museum Access to Boost Arts Funding

institutional · 2026-03-26

The UK government is exploring the possibility of imposing charges on international tourists for entry to permanent collections at national museums. This proposal is part of a broader effort to secure long-term funding for the arts sector, which is currently facing financial challenges. In its response to a review of Arts Council England, the government highlighted the need for sustainable funding options, including a potential hotel levy that is under consultation.

Key facts

  • UK ministers are considering fees for international tourists at national museums
  • The initiative aims to improve arts funding
  • The government seeks long-term options to support the struggling arts sector
  • A hotel levy is among the options being consulted on
  • This follows a review of Arts Council England

Entities

Institutions

  • Arts Council England
  • national museums

Locations

  • UK

Sources