The National Portrait Gallery holds the greatest collection of portraits in the world. The Gallery was founded in 1856 with the aim of collecting portraits of ‘the most eminent persons in British history’. The original Trustees agreed ‘to look at the celebrity of the person represented rather than the merit of the artist’ but also took the view that achievement would sometimes be tempered by human fallibility accepting that ‘great faults and errors’ should not exclude individuals from inclusion.
The role remains the same today - telling the story of the nation through the people who shape it, although this has been broadened to reflect the diversity and dynamism of contemporary culture today. Looking back at history, it can be seen that different ages have celebrated different accomplishments and values and now the Collection at the National Portrait Gallery provides a unique way to understand the past through people and the context they lived in. Today the Gallery aims to tell the stories of those who may not have had their portrait made, especially in the time before widespread access to photography, and to explore their experiences and influence on the nation.
The National Portrait Gallery has over 215,000 portraits and a world-class exhibition programme that showcases the work of some of the world’s greatest artists as well as the very best in contemporary art, with works dating from the 8th century to the present day.
The National Portrait Gallery is free to visit, however, some special exhibitions may require a ticket.
Opening Times
- Open daily: 10.30 – 18.00, Friday & Saturday: 10.30 – 21.00
Places to eat and drink
- See our Eat and drink page to learn more about The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan, Larry's Café Bar, Audrey Green Café and The Portrait Pavilion, including opening hours, menus and how to book.
Gallery Shop
- The National Portrait Gallery Shop features a unique range of products, including wall art, books, accessories and gifts inspired by the Collection.
Resources and support at the Gallery
- This is a Gallery for everyone, full of life and filled with life stories. A place to look, learn, question, listen, eat, drink, meet, play, join and committed to making the Gallery accessible and inclusive to all.
- Please visit Access - National Portrait Gallery for all information or call +44 (0)20 7306 0055 (lines open 10.00 – 17.00).
Gallery address
- St Martin’s Place, London, WC2H 0HE
- All entrances have step-free access. The main entrance is at Ross Place.
Further Information: Home - National Portrait Gallery
Details
- Address:
- National Portrait Gallery
- WC2H 0HE
- Transport:
- Rail: Charing Cross station is 320 metres from the Gallery. Tube: Charing Cross Underground is 230 metres from the Gallery.