The Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising is one of those gems that once you’ve visited you can’t understand why it’s not one of the first things that people tell you to visit. This little museum is dedicated to exactly what the name states, Brands, Packaging and Advertising. Built upon the collection of one man, the museum has a permanent collection that numbers over twelve thousands items and a secondary space for revolving exhibits. It even has a little unassuming cafe.
Nestled in Notting Hill, the museum might be missed if you weren’t looking for it. The dream of Robert Opie, who began his collection when he was only 16, growing it over his lifetime to include items as far back as Ancient Greece and as recently as the Spice Girls. The main collection starts in the Victorian era and moves chronologically until it reaches the present. This description doesn’t do the collection justice as it’s an overwhelming amount of items, each as wonderful as the next.
In addition to being set on a time line, products and advertising are grouped by product category, such as chocolate or tea; by historical inspirations, such as train travel or WWI; or by type of advertising, such as tins or cans. Everything is well thought out to lessen the sense that you can’t take it all in.
That said, you can’t take it all in. This museum may be small, but it warrants multiple visits. Whether you love graphic design, art, economics, history, branding or just love seeing cool old stuff, this is the place to go. The early rooms will leave your jaw slack with the number of Victorian, Edwardian and Deco items, while the later rooms with make you laugh at the nostalgic brands of your childhood.
Museum of Brands, Packaging and Advertising / 111-117 Lancaster Road, Notting Hill, London W11 1QT
The museum is closed Monday and costs the nominal fee of 6 pounds 50 for an adult, 2.25 for a child and 15 pounds for a family. London pass holders get in free.
I hope your getting out and about. Sending you love, Cheri
