The first year we visited London in 2003 we were only there for a few days and we managed to cram lots of tourist activities into that time. One of the museums that we didn’t manage to visit was the V&A so I put that to right this time around. While based in Swindon I caught the train to London and found my way to the museum without any bother.
I had allocated the full day to the museum as I knew I would need it. I was certainly not disappointed that I had allowed that much time. The museum has so much to see and the only disappointment was that the furniture gallery was closed for the day and that was one of the galleries I was interested in viewing. I will need to make a return visit one day!
One of the exhibitions that was being held was Undressed – a brief history of underwear.
The exhibition was inclusive of dress as well as underwear so there was a great deal to see.
The cast courts you can read about here if you click on the picture. Amazing that some of these casts are the only life size replicas of items that have been damaged or destroyed.
The Hereford Screen is a wonderful example of the restoration work done for the museum. 
Examples of the state of the parts of the screen before restoration were on display.
The theatre and performance galleries were a delight to browse through. I loved that I was able to see a model of the scenery for the musical Matilda and the costume for the lead singer of Adam and the Ants.
It was great to see a nod to a part of Melbourne in the architecture section.
In the glassware gallery some Iittalia glassware which was very popular around the time we were married. We still have two sets of glasses intact.
I finished off my trip with lunch in the cafe. It was a beautiful day and many families were enjoying the sunshine in the courtyard.
When in London a visit to the V&A is a must on your list.
Gippsland Granny 
Thank you so much for reposting this. Heather