Newport Street Gallery
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Newport Street Gallery

4.6
·741 reviews·, United Kingdom

A free contemporary art gallery in Vauxhall, showcasing Damien Hirst's collection and unique exhibitions in a striking architectural space.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Newport Street Gallery

Newport Street Gallery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free contemporary art gallery in Vauxhall, showcasing Damien Hirst's collection and unique exhibitions in a striking architectural space.

4.6
(741 reviews)

"A great discovery with many paintings and creations from 3 modern artists. I enjoyed the space itself and presentation."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry to Newport Street Gallery is completely free. Enjoy world-class art without spending a penny!

☕ Quirky Cafe Experience

Don't miss the 'Pharmacy' cafe upstairs for unique decor and sometimes free coffee!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Damien Hirst's Collection

Damien Hirst's Collection

Main Galleries

Explore masterpieces from Damien Hirst's personal collection and works by other renowned artists.

The Pharmacy Cafe

The Pharmacy Cafe

Upstairs

A unique cafe designed like a vintage pharmacy, featuring elements from Hirst's former restaurant.

Architectural Design

Architectural Design

Exterior and Interior

Admire the striking zig-zag roof and the thoughtfully designed exhibition spaces.

Collaborative Exhibitions

Collaborative Exhibitions

Main Galleries

Experience dynamic shows like 'Triple Trouble,' featuring collaborations between major artists.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Art, Unique Cafe

Discover contemporary art at Newport Street Gallery, owned by Damien Hirst. Entry is free, making it a budget-friendly art destination. Don't miss the unique 'Pharmacy' cafe, a nod to Hirst's defunct restaurant, offering a quirky spot to relax.

Location & Accessibility

Tucked away in Vauxhall, this gallery is housed in former Victorian carpentry workshops. While free, it can be surprisingly quiet, offering a more intimate art experience. Plan your visit to this unique London art space.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During special exhibitions
Why
See unique, often collaborative works
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Enjoy a coffee at the cafe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎨🖌️Brian Clarke : A Great Light, Art installation 📍Newport Street Gallery SE11 6AJ 🖼️ #traveller #traveltiktok #london #freeexhibitionlondon #art #artexhibiton
@sofiaribeirolira
19 likes • 514 views

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry to Newport Street Gallery is completely free. Enjoy world-class art without spending a penny! TikTok

☕ Quirky Cafe Experience

Don't miss the 'Pharmacy' cafe upstairs for unique decor and sometimes free coffee! TikTokReddit

Tucked away in Vauxhall, Newport Street Gallery is a free to visit contemporary art space. Opened by Damien Hirst in 2015, the gallery was designed to house exhibitions from his personal art collection, and is situated in a row of Victorian buildings that once served as carpentry workshops for theatre sets. #londonart #londongallery #londonartgallery
@travelalphabetical
39 likes • 1.1K views
Newport Street Gallery has a unique pharmacy gallery cafe and i’m lowkey obsessed 😅 You can literally sit on a 💊 Free hot drinks and biscuits on prescription! ©️no feed reposts #newportstreetgallery #gallerycafe #londongallery
@road2culturedom
79 likes • 1.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Vauxhall

The gallery is in Vauxhall, a less-touristy area perfect for discovering hidden gems. TikTok

📸 Photography Allowed

Capture the art and architecture, but check specific exhibition rules. TikTok

Can art challenge power? 🤔 I spoke with artist @obeygiant Shepard Fairey about his art at his new show at @newportstreetgallery_london where he collaborated with artists @damienhirst and @invaderwashere Tell me what you think below! #girlandgallery #shepardfairey #newportstreetgallery #artinsider #obey
@girlandgallery
1K likes • 11.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry to Newport Street Gallery is completely free. Enjoy world-class art without spending a penny! TikTok

☕ Quirky Cafe Experience

Don't miss the 'Pharmacy' cafe upstairs for unique decor and sometimes free coffee! TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Vauxhall

The gallery is in Vauxhall, a less-touristy area perfect for discovering hidden gems. TikTok

📸 Photography Allowed

Capture the art and architecture, but check specific exhibition rules. TikTok

🛋️ Limited Seating

Be prepared for limited seating in the galleries; consider this if you need frequent breaks. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(741 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Newport Street Gallery for its free admission, striking architecture, and engaging exhibitions, particularly those featuring Damien Hirst's collection and collaborative works. The unique 'Pharmacy' cafe is a frequently mentioned highlight, offering a quirky atmosphere. Some minor points of feedback include limited seating within the galleries.

"This is not my first time in this Gallery, but it is the first time I review it. You probably know this is owned by Damien Hirst, and it does have many masterpieces by the msn himself, by Sarah Lucas, and other great artists. It is worth visiting. The artworks speak for themselves. Enjoy, and do not forget to pass by the “cafe”. This contains many pieces from the defunct restaurant called Pharmacy, a place that was owned by Hirst himself, and that did not survive the 90s, unforunately. It has so many pieces that were there, so this is your chance to see them, in case you were not able to do that back in the 90s scene."

sergio valentini

"Really great visit once you've found it. Beautiful space, very well displayed artworks and a welcome café upstairs (with free coffee when we visited). Only minor gripe was the lack of places to sit whilst touring the galleries - would be a very welcome addition for many"

Stephen Locke

"It was a great discovery for us, with many paintings and creations from 3 modern artists. I enjoyed the space itself and presentation of the pieces, as well as the artists' work."

Dominique Vetrano

What People Like

Free admission
Unique architecture
Engaging exhibitions

What People Dislike

Limited seating

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Newport Street Gallery is located in Vauxhall. The nearest tube station is Vauxhall (Victoria Line), which is about a 10-minute walk away. Several bus routes also serve the area. TikTok

Street parking in the Vauxhall area can be limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach the gallery. TikTok

From central London, take the Victoria Line to Vauxhall station. The gallery is a short walk from there, making it easily accessible. TikTok

The gallery is generally accessible, with lifts available to access different levels. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

While specific policies can vary by exhibition, it's advisable to check the gallery's website for their bag policy. Smaller bags are usually permitted, but large backpacks might need to be checked.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Newport Street Gallery is free for all exhibitions. TikTokReddit

Opening hours typically vary, but the gallery is usually open Tuesday to Sunday. It's best to check their official website for the most current hours before your visit. Reddit

Since admission is free, advance booking is not usually required. However, for very popular exhibitions, it's worth checking if any timed entry slots are recommended or available.

Weekday mornings tend to be the quietest times to visit. Visiting during special exhibition openings might attract more visitors. Reddit

Yes, the gallery occasionally hosts opening events for new exhibitions, which can be a great way to experience the art with a lively atmosphere. TikTok

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

The gallery showcases contemporary art, often featuring works from Damien Hirst's personal collection, as well as exhibitions by other prominent artists. TikTokReddit

The 'Pharmacy' cafe is a unique space designed to resemble a vintage pharmacy, incorporating elements from Damien Hirst's former restaurant of the same name. It's a popular spot for visitors. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions on particular artworks or exhibitions. TikTok

Yes, there is a shop where you can purchase art books, prints, and other merchandise related to the current exhibitions and the gallery's collection. TikTok

The gallery is housed in a row of Victorian buildings and features a distinctive zig-zag roof designed by Caruso St John Architects. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The main dining option is the unique 'Pharmacy' cafe located upstairs, offering a distinctive atmosphere and refreshments. TikTokReddit

Prices at the cafe are generally in line with London cafe prices. Some visitors have noted receiving free coffee during their visits. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of drinks, including coffee and tea, along with cakes and light snacks. TikTok

The Vauxhall area has various restaurants and cafes nearby if you're looking for more extensive dining options outside the gallery. TikTok

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the gallery spaces to protect the artworks. The cafe is the designated area for refreshments. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed within the gallery, but always check for specific exhibition restrictions. TikTok

The distinctive zig-zag roof exterior and the interior architecture are great for photos. The 'Pharmacy' cafe also offers unique photo opportunities. TikTok

Flash photography is typically not allowed inside the galleries to protect the artworks from damage. TikTok

Depending on the exhibition, there might be specific installations or artworks that are particularly photogenic. For example, collaborative shows like 'Triple Trouble' offer unique visual elements. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, especially if you're shooting without flash. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Newport Street Gallery can be a great outing for families, especially since admission is free! While the art itself might be more suited for older children and teens, the unique Pharmacy Cafe is a definite hit with its quirky, almost playful, design. It offers a fun talking point and a novel environment for a snack. TikTokReddit

Consider visiting during less busy times, like weekday mornings, to ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. The gallery's architecture is also visually interesting, which can capture a child's attention. It's a good option for introducing children to contemporary art in a low-pressure, accessible setting. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers in London, Newport Street Gallery is a must-visit. Admission is completely free, allowing you to experience significant contemporary art without any cost. TikTokReddit

Combine your visit with a stroll around the Vauxhall area, and take advantage of the Pharmacy Cafe for an affordable coffee or snack. This makes for a fulfilling and enriching cultural experience that won't break the bank. TikTokReddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors

Newport Street Gallery is a treasure trove for art lovers, showcasing works from Damien Hirst's personal collection and featuring exhibitions by other leading contemporary artists. The gallery's focus on diverse and often collaborative shows, like 'Triple Trouble,' provides a deep dive into current art trends and artist dialogues. TikTok+1

The architectural design by Caruso St John is also a significant draw, offering a beautifully curated space that enhances the viewing experience. The Pharmacy Cafe adds another layer of interest, connecting the gallery's present to its past through Hirst's unique artistic legacy. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture of Newport Street Gallery

Newport Street Gallery is a striking example of contemporary architecture, designed by Caruso St John Architects. The building itself is a significant part of the visitor experience. Its most recognizable feature is the bold, zig-zag roofline, which creates a dynamic silhouette against the London skyline. This distinctive design was inspired by the industrial heritage of the Vauxhall area, where the gallery is situated in a row of former Victorian carpentry workshops. The architects aimed to create a space that was both monumental and intimate, allowing the art to take center stage while providing a unique environment for visitors. TikTok

The interior design complements the exterior, with carefully considered lighting and spatial arrangements. The gallery's layout is designed to facilitate the display of large-scale works and to guide visitors through the exhibitions seamlessly. The use of materials and the overall aesthetic contribute to a sophisticated and engaging atmosphere, making the building itself a work of art. Reddit

Damien Hirst's Vision and The Pharmacy Cafe

Newport Street Gallery is the brainchild of renowned artist Damien Hirst, who conceived it as a space to house and exhibit works from his extensive personal art collection. Opened in 2015, the gallery is a testament to his commitment to making art accessible to the public. Hirst's influence is evident not only in the art displayed but also in the unique 'Pharmacy' cafe. TikTokReddit

The Pharmacy Cafe is a particularly memorable feature, designed to evoke the atmosphere of Hirst's former, now defunct, restaurant 'Pharmacy' in Notting Hill. It's decorated with original fixtures and memorabilia from the restaurant, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience a piece of London's art and cultural history. This cafe serves as a playful extension of the gallery's artistic vision, providing a quirky and engaging space for visitors to relax and reflect on the art they've seen. TikTokReddit

Exploring Collaborative Exhibitions

Newport Street Gallery frequently hosts exhibitions that explore the exciting world of collaborative art. These shows bring together diverse artists, often from different disciplines and backgrounds, to create unique and thought-provoking pieces. A prime example is the 'Triple Trouble' exhibition, which famously united Shepard Fairey, Damien Hirst, and Invader. TikTok+1

These collaborative exhibitions are a highlight for many visitors, offering a chance to see familiar motifs reconfigured in unexpected ways. The dynamic interplay between artists like Invader's mosaics and Hirst's spin paintings, or Fairey's bold graphics, creates a vibrant and often chaotic collision of styles. Such shows challenge the boundaries between street art, pop art, and conceptual art, sparking conversations about artistic practice and cultural commentary. TikTok+1