Explore the best art galleries in London for iconic, contemporary, and lesser-known works
In my sophomore year of college, we had a subject called ‘Art Appreciation.’ There, we journeyed through different art periods, wrote our own interpretations of paintings and sculptures, and listened to music that paid tribute to artists long gone.
To this day, I still find myself humming Don McLean’s ‘Starry, Starry Night,’ and the artwork I created for that class hangs proudly in my room. It’s in these quiet moments that I realize how art, in any form, makes us want to see, feel, and experience more.
Is there a better place for that than in the best art galleries in London—filled with iconic, contemporary, and lesser-known gems you didn’t know you needed? Read until the end for planning tips to help you enjoy every bit of your visit!
Iconic art galleries in London
National Gallery
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Website: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
Address: Trafalgar Square
Contact details: +44 20 7747 2885
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday – 10 AM – 6 PM
- Friday – 10 AM – 9 PM
In store at the National Gallery are Renaissance masterpieces and some of the most iconic works in art history. With approximately 66 rooms spread across the second floor, you’ll find the majority of its collection on display here.
Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ should be at the top of your list once you arrive. Its light and bright yellow shades serve as a great start as you move on to paintings with darker tones and more somber moods from other art periods.
The Gallery also hosts a variety of unique exhibitions, typically running for three to five months. You can join daily guided tours every Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, or opt for themed tours, with tickets starting at £20.
General admission is free and walk-ins are welcome, but you can book a ticket in advance, too, or become a member for priority entry. Plus, downloading the floor plan can make it easier to find your way around.
Tate Modern
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Website: https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
Address: Bankside
Contact details: +44 20 7887 8888
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM – 6 PM
For a dose of modern and contemporary art along the Thames, Tate Modern has it all. Among its paintings, sculptures, and large-scale installations are works by artists from around the world, including Pablo Picasso, Yayoi Kusama, and Henri Matisse.
The fact that its art is housed in a repurposed power station is enough of a reason to make you want to go here. Add in immersive exhibits and rotating artist features, including family-friendly artworks the little ones will surely appreciate.
The digital sketch pads here bring your drawings to life—simply take a seat at one of the desks, draw, and watch as it’s projected on the wall. What’s more, catch live performances and video presentations at Tate Modern’s iconic Turbine Hall and underground Tanks.
Moreover, the collection displays are free to the public, while some special exhibitions require booking and a fee. If you’d like to see it all, having a copy of Tate’s map will be a huge help in planning your route through the gallery.
National Portrait Gallery
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Website: https://www.npg.org.uk/
Address: St. Martin’s Pl
Contact details: +44 20 7306 0055
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10:30 AM – 6 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 10:30 AM – 9 PM
The National Portrait Gallery is dedicated to history through portraits. Over 220,000 works divided into four floors, you’ll see self and group portraits, artists in their studios, subjects dancing, and more from the 8th century to the present day.
Plus, you’ll finally get to see the faces of the British royalty whom you may have only read about before. You’ll come face to face with Anne Boleyn, King Henry VII, Queen Elizabeth I, Mary, Queen of Scots, and many more.
Even baby photos of royals born into the family are carefully preserved here. Among them are King Charles III sitting on Queen Elizabeth II’s lap, Princess Diana carrying Prince Harry, and Princess Louise riding on Queen Alexandra’s back.
Aside from royalty, the Gallery is also an exploration of modern cultural icons. You might even squeal when you spot David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Malala Yousafzai, and even Ed Sheeran featured in its selection of iconic figures.
Contemporary art galleries in London
Saatchi Gallery
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Website: https://www.saatchigallery.com/
Address: Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Rd
Contact details: +44 20 7811 3070
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM – 6 PM
Founded in 1985, Saatchi Gallery presents contemporary art exhibits introducing the work of emerging artists. The gallery’s collection was originally drawn from that of Charles Saatchi, a British businessman and art collector.
Before you set foot, know that it focuses on thought-provoking works by international contemporary artists. For example, Nigerian artist Deborah Segun’s ‘A Moment to Myself’ exhibit showcased paintings portraying how the internal self reflects the natural world.
Meanwhile, the ‘Filthy Cute’ exhibit displayed Dutch artist Anne Von Freyburg’s bold textile-based paintings. Another standout, ‘Flowers – Flora in Contemporary Art & Culture,’ bloomed with creativity, featuring works by Cristina Alcantara and Pedro Almodovar.
Some exhibits have free entry with no need to book, while others—though also free—require pre-booking. Then there are the ticketed ones starting at £10, so it’s best to check Saatchi’s ticket info page to know which are which.
Hayward Gallery
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Website: https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/venues/hayward-gallery/
Address: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd
Contact details: +44 20 3879 9555
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Friday, and Sunday – 10 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM – 8 PM
Situated at Southbank Centre, Hayward Gallery opens your eyes to experimental and boundary-pushing exhibits. Some of its permanent commissioned pieces can be seen outdoors, like the Jeppe Hein Benches and Ian Walter’s Bust of Nelson Mandela.
Hayward Gallery collaborates with artists, makers, and thinkers to develop projects that exude ambition and imagination. A notable example is ‘When Forms Come Alive,’ a group exhibition of dynamic, moving sculptures that reflect the ever-changing nature of the world.
There’s also one by internationally acclaimed British artist Mike Nelson entitled ‘Extinction Beckons.’ This exhibit pulled viewers into an immersive world of life-like installations constructed with materials scavenged from salvage yards, junk shops, and flea markets.
All in all, art at Hayward Gallery isn’t just for viewing—it’s something that’ll get you talking and thinking. With a collection rooted in global art movements and shaped by architecture and design influences, you’re bound to leave with a fresh perspective on how you see the world.
Whitechapel Gallery
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Website: https://www.whitechapelgallery.org/
Address: 77-82 Whitechapel High St
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Monday- closed
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday to Sunday – 11 AM – 6 PM
- Thursday – 11 AM – 9 PM
This one’s a true pioneer in the arts scene of London’s East End. Housing nine exhibition spaces, Whitechapel Gallery has brought together some of the world’s most significant and visionary artists from China, Brazil, and the Islamic world.
Founded in 1901, it aims to bring ‘the finest art of the world’ to the people of East End, London. True to that mission, the first major work to grace its walls was Pablo Picasso’s ‘Guernica,’ exhibited there in 1939.
Since then, Whitechapel has supported up-and-coming talents through a series of initiatives and awards. A great example is the London Open, an open-call show that’s helped launch the careers of big names like Anish Kapoor, Bob & Roberta Smith, and Antony Gormley.
Over the years, local schools, families, and young people have benefited from the gallery’s pioneering exhibitions, educational events, and community activities. These outreach efforts have even inspired cultural institutions around the world to follow suit.
Lesser-known gems in London’s art scene
Guildhall Art Gallery
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Website: https://www.thecityofldn.com/guildhall-gallery-and-amphitheatre/
Address: Guildhall Yard
Contact details: +44 20 7332 3700
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM – 5 PM
An art gallery about London, for London—Guildhall celebrates historic works that depict the city and were created by artists who lived in it. Part of that is the Roman amphitheater, an interactive attraction that takes you back to ancient Roman London.
From their growing art collection, 1,300 of these are oil paintings, including Victorian-era pieces and historic scenes such as The Great Fire of London in 1666 and the Frost Fair of 1739.
Let’s not forget the works of Sir Matthew Smith, one of the most significant British painters of the 20th century. His studio collection at the gallery is a permanent display of quick on-the-spot sketches, unfinished compositions, and paintings he didn’t want to part with.
In Guildhall’s basement, you’ll get a sneak peek of London’s Roman past with the remains of a Roman amphitheater, complete with a stone entrance tunnel, east gate, and arena walls. The ruins stir the imagination with scenes of gladiator duels and public executions.
Dulwich Picture Gallery
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Website: https://www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk/
Address: College Road
Contact details: +44 20 8693 5254
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Established through the will of Sir Francis Bourgeois after his death in 1811, Dulwich Picture Gallery became England’s first public art gallery. It was designed and built by his friend, the renowned architect Sir John Soane.
Come present day, it lets you in on one of the finest collections of French, Italian, and Spanish Baroque paintings. Even more, British portraits from Tudor times to the 19th century are here, starring the likes of Rembrandt, Gainsborough, and Poussin.
Beyond the Baroque art collection, Dulwich’s simple yet elegant architecture makes it special, too. The vaulted ceilings and curved walls create a sense of openness, while the enfilade-style rooms (aligned doorways) encourage slow, thoughtful viewing with tons of natural light.
After your visit, you can take a relaxing day trip to Dulwich Village. Stroll through its tree-lined streets, enjoy your packed lunch in Dulwich Park, or explore the independent shops, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs to really soak up the local charm.
Victoria Miro Gallery
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Website: https://www.victoria-miro.com/
Address: 16 Wharf Rd
Contact details: +44 20 7336 8109
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10 AM – 6 PM
In a spacious, converted Victorian furniture factory in East London stands the contemporary art gallery, Victoria Miro. Spanning two floors and including a garden overlooking Regent’s Canal, it represents established and emerging artists worldwide.
It’s home to contemporary art across various mediums, from painting and drawing to sculpture and installation. Representing over 40 artists from the US, Europe, and Asia, the gallery sets the stage for their bold, innovative works.
Some of those artists are Yayoi Kusama, known for her polka-dot motifs, and Ali Banisadr, whose dynamic paintings depict chaotic, fantastical scenes. There’s also Maria Berrio and her intricate collages that explore themes of migration and identity.
As for notable exhibits, 2025 saw Inka Essenhigh’s ‘The Greenhouse’, a surreal dive into botanical landscapes. And ‘Chiaroscuro: A Centrury of Charcoal,’ which brought together charcoal drawings by over 30 artists from the past 100 years.
Planning your visit to London’s art galleries
Even if entry is free, some museums have special exhibits or timed entry slots, so it’s worth checking their website or calling ahead. Once you’ve settled that, aim to arrive early in the day, as it’s less crowded during that time.
It’s also helpful to map out your visit—either grab a map at the entrance or print out your chosen gallery’s floor plan ahead of time. While you’re there, remember to slow down and really absorb the art, but focus first on the collections that interest you most to avoid feeling rushed.
Lastly, if you can, take advantage of free tours to hear from knowledgeable volunteers. But if you prefer exploring on your own, try using audio guides to gain deeper insights into the exhibits and make your visit more engaging.
When to visit for special events and exhibitions
Many galleries and museums host temporary exhibitions, live performances, and exclusive events throughout the year. These can range from artist talks and workshops to themed exhibits or seasonal displays.
Be sure to check the gallery’s website for details on upcoming events and openings, as these are often the best times to see something new. Also, keep an eye out for free entry days, late-night openings, or festival events that might coincide with your visit!
Accessibility information for families and individuals with mobility needs
| Art gallery | Accessibility information |
| National Gallery | Standard manual wheelchairs, rollators, and lift access are available for advanced booking. Simply call +44 (0)20 7747 2590. |
| Tate Modern | Twelve parking spaces for disabled visitors at Park Street, and free wheelchairs or mobility scooters. To book, email [email protected]. |
| National Portrait Gallery | Limited wheelchairs and walkers available for pre-booking via [email protected]. Also, assistance dogs are allowed inside. |
| Saatchi Gallery | Fully wheelchair-accessible with wheelchair ramp access, and a step-free entrance to the right of the archway wall. |
| Hayward Gallery | Wheelchair-friendly help points, toilets, and performance and exhibition spaces. To book a wheelchair, email [email protected]. |
| Whitechapel Gallery | Wheelchairs and portable folding chairs are available via [email protected] and the Cloakroom Desk, respectively. |
| Guildhall Art Gallery | Available lifts to take you to each level and one step-free entrance to the Gallery and Ampitheater. |
| Dulwich Picture Gallery | Wheelchairs are booked in advance by calling 020 8693 5254. And, guide dogs are welcome, with available water bowls upon request. |
| Victoria Miro | Fully accessible artworks on the ground floor and wheelchair-friendly waterside garden. However, no lift access to the upper floor of Gallery I. |