Bank of England Museum

Bank of England Museum

Bank of England Museum
Threadneedle Street
London
London
EC2R 8AH

Tel: 020 7601 5545
E-Mail: museum@bankofengland.co.uk

Web: Bank of England Museum

About Bank of England Museum

Having been in existence for more than 300 years the Bank of England has, unsurprisingly, accumulated a considerable number of items associated with its history. These items are grouped into 'Collections'. Some of them, such as banknotes and furniture, represent the survival of tools used in the everyday working of the Bank whilst others, such as the cartoons, have been acquired over the years either by purchase or presentation. Items from the Bank's collections are displayed in its Museum where they are used to illustrate the history of the institution and its role today at the centre of the UK economy.

History of The Bank of England

The Bank of England was founded in 1694 to act as the Government's banker and debt-manager. Since then its role has developed and evolved, centred on the management of the nation's currency and its position at the centre of the UK's financial system.

The history of the Bank is naturally one of interest, but also of continuing relevance to the Bank today. Events and circumstances over the past three hundred or so years have shaped and influenced the role and responsibilities of the Bank. They have moulded the culture and traditions, as well as the expertise, of the Bank which are relevant to its reputation and effectiveness as a central bank in the early years of the 21st century. At the same time, much of the history of the Bank runs parallel to the economic and financial history, and often the political history, of the United Kingdom more generally.

If you want to get closer to the Bank's history and are visiting London, the Bank's Museum provides a unique insight into the history of the Bank and its business, alongside a great deal of material about the Bank today.