Top 5 Art Galleries In London

With London having some of the most renowned art galleries in the world, it would be rude not to go and check them out; here's our top 5!

By Rex Adams | Updated Sep 4 2023

A colorful pavilion with vibrant architectural elements is set up in a courtyard. The structure features a yellow dome, green lattice, and blue triangular shapes, alongside a red and pink tower. The surrounding buildings have a classic architectural style with numerous windows. — Victoria and Albert Museum via Facebook

London, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and with art playing an essential role it the city's cultural and touristic scene, is a treasure trove for art enthusiast and curious explorers.

From classical masterpieces to contemporary installations, the art scene in the British capital is diverse and captivating.

There are approximately 1500 permanent exhibition spaces scattered across the city, with most of them being free- so if you're stuck for something to do this summer; this list of London's top 5 art galleries might just be worth checking out.

Tate Modern

A person with long hair, wearing a denim jacket, sits and looks at two colorful abstract paintings displayed on a gallery wall. The paintings feature various geometric shapes, including circles and ovals, with intricate patterns and lines on a pink background. — Tate via Facebook

Bankside, London SE1 9TG

Located on the banks of the River Thames, Tate Modern is a modern and contemporary art museum housed in a former power station. Its vast collection spans a wide range of artistic movements, from surrealism to minimalism.

The gallery's iconic Turbine Hall hosts large-scale installations that never fail to impress. With its striking architecture and thought-provoking exhibitions, Tate Modern has become a global destination for art enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge contemporary art.

Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday - 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Friday and Saturday - 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Pricing: Free entry to the majority of exhibits; some special exhibitions may have an admission fee.

Upcoming Exhibition: "Andy Warhol" - A comprehensive retrospective showcasing the iconic works of the legendary artist, Andy Warhol. It will explore his influential career and his impact on contemporary art. (Dates: TBC)

The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN

Situated in the heart of Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery is a haven for lovers of classical art.

Established in 1824, The National Gallery boasts an extensive collection of European paintings from the 13th to the 19th century, it showcases works by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Botticelli- and with all these priceless artists here you'll be happy to know that entry won't cost you a penny.

The gallery's neoclassical building provides a stunning backdrop for the masterpieces on display, making it a must-visit destination for art history enthusiasts. If you get a bit peckish whilst you're there, there's also a beautiful restaurant and cafe offering a contemporary European menu and seasonal salads. Plan your visit here.

Opening Times: Daily - 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Friday - 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Pricing: Free entry to the permanent collection; special exhibitions may have admission fees.

Upcoming Exhibition: "Rembrandt: A Life in Light and Shadow" - A captivating exhibition dedicated to the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn. It will feature a collection of his extraordinary paintings, highlighting his skilful play of light and shadow. (Dates: TBC)

Saatchi Gallery

A grand neoclassical building with large white columns and an ornate pediment, situated among trees. The facade displays a sign reading Saatchi Gallery, and there are banners with the same name on either side of the entrance. People are entering the building. — drapersonline.com

Duke of York's HQ, King's Rd, London SW3 4RY

Founded by Charles Saatchi, the Saatchi Gallery is a contemporary art museum known for its bold and provocative exhibitions. Located in the trendy Chelsea neighbourhood, the gallery focuses on showcasing the works of emerging artists, providing a platform for their talent to shine.

Its modern, minimalist spaces create an ideal setting for visitors to engage with cutting-edge contemporary art and explore new artistic voices. Who knows, you may stumble across an artists who could be the next Picasso...

Opening Times: Daily - 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Pricing: Free entry to most exhibits; some temporary exhibitions may have an admission fee.

Upcoming Exhibition: "Civilization" - This landmark exhibition tracks the visual threads of humanity’s ever-changing, extraordinarily complex life across the globe, through the eyes of 150 of the world’s most accomplished photographers. 2nd June- 17th September 2023. You can check out more of what's on here.

Victoria and Albert Museum

A large, historic building featuring intricate architecture with towers and domes. Surrounding trees and a busy street with vehicles are visible in the foreground. The sky is partly cloudy, casting a gentle light on the scene. — vam.ac.uk

Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL

The Victoria and Albert Museum, known as the V&A, is the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design, a little different to our other contenders who mainly focus on the medium of painting.

It houses a vast collection that spans over 5,000 years of human creativity, including fashion, sculpture, photography, and furniture. To be exact- it exhibits a 2.27 million-piece-collection of jewellery, costumes, furniture, ceramics, sculptures and textiles.

The museum's grand Victorian building, adorned with intricate details, sets the stage for a journey through artistic and design excellence from across the globe. Exhibitions take place online and in person so make sure to check out their website for further information.

Opening Times: Daily - 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM, Friday - 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Pricing: Free entry to the majority of exhibits; some special exhibitions may have admission fees.

Upcoming Exhibition: "DIVA" - DIVA will celebrate the power and creativity of iconic performers, exploring and redefining the role of 'diva' and how this has been subverted or embraced over time across opera, stage, popular music, and film. Opens Saturday, 24 June 2023. Book your tickets here.

Serpentine Galleries

A modern wooden pavilion with intricate latticework details is set amid a lush green landscape. Tall trees with vibrant green leaves frame the top of the image. In the background, the spire of a building is visible above the pavilion's rooftops. — serpentinegalleries.org

London W2 3XA

Situated in Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine Galleries are renowned for their commitment to contemporary art and architecture. Comprised of two galleries, the Serpentine Gallery and the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, the institutions host a range of exhibitions that push boundaries and challenge artistic conventions.

The galleries' serene location in the heart of one of London's most beautiful parks offers a unique and immersive art experience and are perfect for a summer excursion that's a little bit different.

Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday - 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Pricing: Free entry to most exhibits; some special exhibitions may have an admission fee.

Upcoming Exhibition: "Serpentine Pavilion 2023 by Lina Ghotmeh — Architecture" - The design of the Serpentine Pavilion 2023 emerges from architect Lina Ghotmeh’s aspiration to develop our primal relationship with the Earth into a sustainable one. 9 June - 29 October 2023