National Gallery London
A treasure trove of Western European art, the National Gallery offers free admission to masterpieces spanning centuries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art time
National Gallery London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A treasure trove of Western European art, the National Gallery offers free admission to masterpieces spanning centuries.
"Free entry to see Van Gogh, Monet, and countless other masters makes this a London essential."
🎯 Free General Admission
Enjoy the vast permanent collection without an entry fee! Donations are welcome.
🎟️ Book Special Exhibitions
For popular shows like 'Poets and Lovers', book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Van Gogh's Masterpieces
Special Exhibitions
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Vincent van Gogh, featuring iconic works that showcase his unique style.
Monet's London Views
Impressionist Collection
See Claude Monet's captivating depictions of foggy London, capturing the city's atmosphere with his signature brushstrokes.
Lady Jane Grey's Execution
British Art Collection
Witness Paul Delaroche's dramatic 1834 painting of Lady Jane Grey's final moments, a powerful historical narrative.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibitions
Sainsbury Wing Renovation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free General Admission
Enjoy the vast permanent collection without an entry fee! Donations are welcome.
🎟️ Book Special Exhibitions
For popular shows like 'Poets and Lovers', book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
🚶♀️ Explore by Wing
With the Sainsbury Wing closed, focus on the other wings for masterpieces from different eras.
🎧 Audio Guides Available
Enhance your visit with audio guides to learn more about the artworks and artists.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free General Admission
Enjoy the vast permanent collection without an entry fee! Donations are welcome.
🎟️ Book Special Exhibitions
For popular shows like 'Poets and Lovers', book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.
🚶♀️ Explore by Wing
With the Sainsbury Wing closed, focus on the other wings for masterpieces from different eras.
🎧 Audio Guides Available
Enhance your visit with audio guides to learn more about the artworks and artists.
☕ Cafe & Shop Onsite
Take a break at the cafe or browse the shop for art-themed souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Gallery for its magnificent collection and free general admission, making it a must-visit London attraction. While the temporary closure of the Sainsbury Wing is noted, the wealth of other masterpieces ensures a rewarding experience. Some find the sheer volume of art overwhelming, suggesting focused visits.
"One of the best art gallery’s in the world. Amazing artwork, logically presented in a beautiful building. All that for free. Just walk on in and enjoy.
I have never had a problem with crowds even in the holidays. Obviously some of the most popular pieces have small crowds but never a problem.
Highly highly recommend."
jeff martin
"I have visited it multiple times after the reopening of the Sainsbury wing, and very happy to meet all the old friends again. They are experimenting a theme-based curating exhibition, but most rooms are still in chronological and geographical order, so it's easy to navigate in the gallery.
Last year you had to queue at the front central entrance but now with the reopening it took less than a minute to enter the gallery through the new entrance.
Most important of all, they have now more exhibition space and you can really see every European master's works in one site.
I really like the exhibition of Charles I collection, which displays some of the paintings that were in the king's possession."
陳北辰 Артур
"It appeared to stretch for miles. The National Gallery is simply enormous. This is my fourth visit. The art pieces are magnificent, beautifully displayed, and arranged in roomy galleries. While some places are remarkably calm, others get very busy. From the exterior, the structure appears grand and spacious, but within, some of the rooms are exquisitely designed and embellished, almost like works of art. With all of the great artists on exhibit, the artwork is stunning. It's nice to see some well-known pieces in their original form. It is a genuine national asset, and admission is free. There are restrooms available."
Babji Vundavilli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Gallery is easily accessible via public transport. Take the Tube to Charing Cross, Leicester Square, or Piccadilly Circus stations. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby, including the 9 and 11 which cover many London landmarks. +1
Parking in central London can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport. If driving is necessary, consider parking at a station like Wembley and taking the train into the city.
The National Gallery offers free general admission, so a London Pass is not required for entry to the permanent collection. However, it may cover special exhibitions if they are included.
From Heathrow Airport, take the Piccadilly Line on the London Underground directly to central London, then transfer to a line that serves Charing Cross or Leicester Square.
While there aren't specific 'free' bus routes, routes like the 9 and 11 are very affordable and pass by many major attractions, making them a budget-friendly way to reach the gallery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, general admission to the National Gallery's permanent collection is free for everyone. Donations are appreciated to support the museum.
For special exhibitions like 'Poets and Lovers', pre-booking tickets online is highly recommended to secure your entry time and avoid disappointment.
The National Gallery is typically open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours until 9 PM on Fridays. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
No, the Sainsbury Wing is currently closed for renovation and is expected to reopen in May. +1
Refund policies for special exhibitions vary. It's best to check the specific terms and conditions when booking your tickets on the National Gallery's official website.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Highlights include Van Gogh's works, Monet's London scenes, and Delaroche's 'Execution of Lady Jane Grey'. The collection spans centuries of Western European painting.
For a general visit to the permanent collection, allow at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to see a special exhibition, add an extra 1-2 hours.
The National Gallery offers various tours, including free daily tours led by gallery educators. Check their schedule for times and themes. Audio guides are also available for rent.
Photography without flash is generally permitted in the permanent collection galleries for personal use. However, flash photography and tripods are not allowed. Special exhibitions may have different restrictions.
The gallery offers restrooms, cloakrooms, a cafe, a shop, and accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the National Gallery has a cafe offering light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient spot to refuel during your visit.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the galleries. It's best to consume them before entering or use the designated cafe area.
The area around Trafalgar Square offers a wide range of dining options, from casual pubs to upscale restaurants. Leicester Square and Covent Garden are also a short walk away with many choices.
There is no specific dress code for the National Gallery. Comfortable, casual attire is perfectly acceptable for visiting the museum.
While the National Gallery has a cafe, it does not typically operate as a bar. For a unique bar experience nearby, consider the secret speakeasy in the National Portrait Gallery.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can take photos without flash in the permanent collection galleries for personal use. Tripods and flash photography are prohibited.
Special exhibitions often have stricter photography rules, sometimes prohibiting it entirely to protect the artworks. Always check the signage at the exhibition entrance.
The grand architecture of the main halls and the iconic paintings themselves make for great photo opportunities. The exterior of the gallery in Trafalgar Square is also very photogenic.
Yes, your phone camera is permitted for non-flash photography in the permanent collection galleries.
Iconic pieces like Van Gogh's works, Monet's London scenes, and historical paintings are popular subjects for visitors' photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for family-friendly trails or activity sheets available at the gallery to make the visit more interactive. The cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks and meals, and the open spaces around Trafalgar Square offer room for children to move and play after their museum visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Combine your visit with other free London attractions like the British Museum or the V&A. Utilize affordable public transport, such as the iconic double-decker buses, to navigate the city and see sights along the way. Pack your own snacks or look for budget-friendly eats at local markets or pubs to save on dining costs. Many TikTok creators share tips on finding affordable food options in London.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the temporary exhibitions, which often feature unique collections and loan pieces from around the world.
Plan your visit around these special events to experience rare artistic treasures. Explore nearby galleries like the Tate Britain and the Wallace Collection to further enrich your art immersion. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Masterpieces Not to Miss
Claude Monet's series of London scenes, particularly his views of the Thames, capture the city's ephemeral light and atmosphere with remarkable skill. Beyond these, explore the dramatic historical narratives like Paul Delaroche's 'The Execution of Lady Jane Grey,' a powerful and moving depiction of a tragic event.
Take your time to wander through the different rooms, allowing yourself to be captivated by the diverse styles and subjects. Pro-tip: Many visitors recommend focusing on specific periods or artists to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Check the gallery's website for current highlights and recommended routes to tailor your visit to your interests.
Budget-Friendly London Exploration
+1 Many other iconic London attractions are also free, such as the British Museum, Natural History Museum, and Victoria & Albert Museum, allowing for an enriching itinerary without significant costs. To maximize your budget, consider using London's extensive public transport system. Buses like the number 9 and 11 are not only affordable but also offer scenic routes past many famous landmarks, serving as a mobile tour of the city.
When it comes to dining, look for local pubs or markets for more affordable meal options. TikTok creators often share tips on finding authentic and budget-friendly food experiences, such as seeking out establishments that serve fish and chips in paper.
Navigating London's Art Scene
The Wallace Collection, another free museum, offers a stunning display of fine and decorative arts in a beautiful historic townhouse, featuring works by Old Masters and exquisite furniture. For those interested in portraiture, the National Portrait Gallery, located just next door to the National Gallery, offers a fascinating look at the faces that have shaped British history. It even boasts a hidden speakeasy bar for a unique evening experience.
These institutions, along with others like the British Museum and the V&A, form a rich tapestry of cultural experiences accessible to all. Many visitors find that planning their museum visits geographically can save time and energy. Grouping nearby galleries, like the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery, allows for a more efficient exploration of London's artistic offerings.
Consider using apps or online guides to map out your art-focused days, ensuring you make the most of your time in the city. 
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