The Magic Circle, London

Hidden in 16th-century cellars, the museum really does evoke otherworldly wonder, making the experience even more remarkable. It’s as though you have stumbled into a mystical place where everything isn’t quite as it initially  seems, a place separate from ‘real life’.   

The museum not only presents modern magic and physical shows but delves into the history of magic and illusion. Whilst most of the information cards are written in French, staff are happy to explain in English, so do ask questions. The magic show is also predominantly in French, but the magician keeps  English guests in mind,  especially children who are often invited to take part. Anyhow, the use of visual magic and humour means the show is  easy to understand, regardless of any potential language barrier.

Tickets include access to the Museum of Magic, the Museum of Automates and admission to the magic show. The friendly staff guide you round, doing magic tricks and happily answering any questions. The Musée des Automates  also  encourages magical curiosity through the display of hundreds of automata. These wonderfully strange toys and machines are excellent examples of human creativity and intelligence, adding to the dream-like experience of the museum.

The cellars  are full of magical objects including magic wands and ‘boxes of secrets’. Oh and don’t forget the magic mirrors and optical illusions. The museum also has a Hallucinoscope, a mask with an incorporated mirror that creates a virtual reality without any electronics – it is solely your own brain playing tricks. This makes for a fun and interactive experience where you are free to explore and investigate.

The Magic Circle

Centre for the Magic Arts, 12 Stephenson Way, Kings Cross, London NW1 2HD