Bow Street Police Museum

Bow Street was one of London’s oldest police stations, operating from the 18th century until 1992 when the police station closed, and it played a significant role in the development of modern policing. The museum showcases the evolution of policing from its early beginnings to the present day, highlighting the challenges, innovations and individuals that have shaped law enforcement in the capital.

The police station is noted as the former home of the Bow Street Runners, who were early law enforcement officers operating in London during the 18th and early 19th centuries. They were instrumental in pioneering modern policing practices, including the use of detective work, uniformed patrols and centralised administration. Their efforts laid the foundation for the establishment of professional police forces in Britain and contributed to the development of modern law enforcement techniques worldwide.

The museum is centrally located in Covent Garden. It opened in 2021, although the police station had a small collection of artefacts on display between 1949 and 1980.

What to see at the Bow Street Police Museum

The Bow Street Police Museum offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the history and evolution of law enforcement in London and its influence on modern policing techniques used worldwide.

The museum’s exhibits cover topics related to policing, crime and justice in London. You can see artefacts, documents and interactive displays that span several centuries, offering insights into the challenges faced by police and the methods used to maintain public order.

One of the main highlights of the museum is its exhibit on the Bow Street Runners, a group of early law enforcement officers who operated in the area during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Through displays of uniforms, equipment and other artefacts, you can learn about the origins of the Bow Street Runners and their role in pioneering modern policing practices.

The museum also explores the development of the neighbouring Bow Street Magistrates Court, which played a central role in the administration of justice in London for over two centuries. Exhibits showcase the courtroom environment, legal procedures and notable cases heard at Bow Street, offering insights into the workings of the criminal justice system.

Interactive displays provide opportunities to learn about forensic science, investigative techniques and the day-to-day operations of a police station.

Visiting the Bow Street Police Museum

Bow Street Police Museum is on Marlett Court, just off Bow Street. It adjoins the NoMad Hotel, previously the Bow Street Magistrates Court.

The museum is centrally located in Covent Garden and the London Transport Museum and the Covent Garden Market and Piazza are only a three-minute walk from the museum.

Covent Garden tube station (on the Piccadilly line) is only a three-minute walk away and the museum is only around a five-minute walk to Aldwych, where many buses terminate.

The museum is only open from Friday to Sunday and admission costs £6 with half-price entry if you have the National Art Pass.

Visitor facilities include a small gift shop and there is free Wi-Fi wireless internet access throughout the museum. The museum doesn’t have its own cafe but its central location means that there are plenty of places to eat and drink on your doorstep.

Allow around an hour for your visit.