London has long been at the beating heart of Britain’s art and culture scene and it is here that you can discover the world’s most beloved artists in some of the most iconic galleries. National treasures and modern achievements stand side by side in a vibrant and diverse array of gallery spaces spread throughout the city.
London has a great selection of art galleries, but many of the most popular are central and within easy reach, such as the impressive Tate Modern. The Thames Bankside Gallery is a sanctuary for 20th-century modern art, housing impressive contemporary exhibits from Edward Hopper and Mark Rothko to Duchamp and Man Ray. Most of the permanent exhibits are free, so you can admire the remarkable interior architecture of Bankside Power Station, which houses the Tate, and marvel at the iconic work of some of your favorite contemporary artists at your leisure.
London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, or simply the V&A, is located in South Kensington. Exhibits at the V&A are also mostly free and offer a great opportunity to experience the royal splendor of royal artefacts, pottery and medieval treasures. In addition to the art objects, visitors to the V&A can also wander through the interactive costume exhibits, which are great fun for kids, as well as important art collections from around the world.
More national treasures can be unearthed at the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. This busy and popular gallery boasts entire wings of period art and houses treasures from famous names, from Van Eyck to Vermeer, Caravaggio to Constable, and Rembrandt to Renoir. You could spend hours soaking up the sights of any number of seminal art movements, and with free admission you can do it any day of the week!
The Saatchi Gallery, which bears the same name and is packed with exhibits by emerging artists and darlings of the established media, keeps up with art in London. Owner Charles Saatchi recently moved the gallery to Chelsea and it is now housed within the impressive Duke of York’s headquarters. With particular prominence given to the Emins, Hirsts and Chapmans of contemporary art, the Saatchi Gallery always offers a vital insight into what’s happening in the world of modern art.
Art galleries in London range from large establishments to unique private galleries, many of which can be found on the city’s Piccadilly and Albemarle streets. White Cube, The Portland Gallery and Marlborough Fine Art are all great examples of private galleries and are worth a visit for a more intimate art experience.
Getting around London to experience it all is simple with its well-integrated transport system that combines underground and overland network solutions, including subways, buses and black cabs. London is packed with art galleries and you might waste time seeing it all, however with so many centrally located London hotels you can find an ideal short break to experience London art at your own pace.