The London Museum has just unveiled exciting news that’s set to change the cultural landscape of the capital.
Thanks to Bloomberg Philanthropies, the museum has received an unparalleled collection of Roman artefacts, along with a game-changing £20 million donation that will transform its future home.
This monumental project is set for completion in 2026, creating a dynamic and accessible cultural destination at Smithfield Market.
Unearthed Treasures and a New Cultural Beacon
The artefacts, known as the Bloomberg Collection, were discovered during excavations at Bloomberg’s European headquarters in the City of London between 2012 and 2014. It’s a trove of over 14,000 Roman pieces, including Britain’s largest collection of Roman writing tablets, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of early Londoners. Among the discoveries is the first written reference to the city itself.
Many of the artefacts have never been publicly displayed, but that’s about to change. The donation will help house the collection within the museum’s subterranean galleries, allowing visitors to explore Roman London’s untold stories. For history buffs and curious city dwellers alike, this promises to be a rare treat.
A Transformative Investment
The £20 million donation from Bloomberg Philanthropies is the largest private gift the museum has ever received. It will fund the ambitious transformation of Smithfield’s historic market buildings into a state-of-the-art cultural hub. The project will expand gallery space, improve access to the museum’s treasures through digital innovation, and create a new learning centre aimed at engaging every London schoolchild.
The museum expects to become one of London’s top visitor attractions, welcoming over 2 million people annually. Beyond cultural enrichment, the redevelopment will provide a significant economic boost, contributing an estimated £565 million in Gross Value Added within a decade of opening.
Partnerships Shaping the Future
This generous gift builds on a strong partnership between London Museum and Bloomberg Philanthropies. Their collaboration includes support for the museum’s digital transformation through Bloomberg’s Digital Accelerator Programme for Arts and Culture. It’s one of many steps Bloomberg has taken to promote arts and culture globally, supporting over 700 organisations, including many in the UK.
A Vision for London
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, described the donation as “a major boost” for one of Europe’s most significant cultural projects, highlighting Bloomberg’s role as a champion of the city’s cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Mike Bloomberg himself emphasised the value of culture as a driver for economic growth, civic pride, and creativity. The new London Museum, he remarked, will be a beacon connecting the city’s long history to its vibrant future.
The museum’s Director, Sharon Ament, called the collection and donation “a momentous gift that ties the past to the future.” She celebrated the transformation of Smithfield into a space that will reflect and engage with the diversity of modern London.
A Cultural Legacy
The new London Museum is set to be a landmark destination for locals and tourists alike. With its unparalleled artefacts, innovative approach, and focus on accessibility, it aims to bridge the past and present while inspiring future generations. Thanks to Bloomberg Philanthropies, the city’s rich history is now closer to becoming a part of every Londoner’s story.
Mark your calendars for 2026. The future of London’s cultural scene is looking brighter than ever.
For more information on the London Museum project, head to the website.
London Museum Docklands remains open Monday – Sunday 10am – 5pm and is FREE to all. You can explore London Museum with collections online – home to 138,000 objects with more being added regularly.