New research from Google has revealed that London’s art galleries, museums and arts performances are the most searched for anywhere in the world.

For international searches, London’s museums top the list, with the Science Museum ranked as the most googled in the world. The city’s Natural History Museum comes in second place, while the British Museum makes it an all-London top three, ahead of the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian in Washington, which were fourth and fifth respectively.

"It's fantastic that so many people across world are seeking out the Science Museum,” said the museum’s director, Ian Blatchford. “This new data provides yet more evidence of the world class status of British museums."

The capital’s theatres also generated more searches than those in any other city, while London is additionally the most searched for city in the world to visit.

“This proves London is without a doubt the cultural capital of the world,” said London mayor Boris Johnson in response to the research.

"Tourists are flocking to our great city in ever-increasing numbers, drawn by our exceptional cultural attractions and landmarks.

"Our world-famous museums, galleries, theatres and performance venues have done a terrific job creating and attracting the blockbuster exhibitions and events that form this spectacular Autumn Season of Culture in London."

The research was carried out in collaboration with London & Partners, the mayor's official promotional company, to launch London's Autumn Season of Culture – a line-up of shows and exhibitions taking place in the capital throughout Q3 of this year, forecast to welcome more than two million tourists.