National Portrait Gallery

Art gallery · Charing Cross

National Portrait Gallery

Art gallery · Charing Cross

St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE, United Kingdom

Highlights

Delve into the charm of British history at this free, beautifully curated gallery, showcasing stunning portraits from the Tudors to modern icons.

St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE, United Kingdom Get directions

npg.org.uk

@nationalportraitgallery

@michelinguide

"I love people’s faces and collect painted portraits and so to have a museum dedicated to the art of creating humans on canvas never gets old to me." - Edward Barsamian

Paul Feig’s London is Dapper, Distinctive and Delicious

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@afar

"See the Many Faces of Britain Nestled in the corner next to the National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, the National Portrait Gallery isn’t as overwhelmingas its larger sibling.It’s an absolute beaut of a gallery, with a permanent collection (free to view) of portraits of everyone you’ve ever heard of, from Elizabeth I and Winston Churchill to the Duchess of Cambridgeand Amy Winehouse, while its programme of exhibitions never ceases to fascinate. Portrait Restaurant and Bar has a breathtaking view over Trafalgar Square and Whitehall, taking in Nelson’s column, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. If you’re around between June and September don’t miss the famous BP Portrait Award, which displays the best contemporary portraiture in Britain today."

The Best Things to Do in London

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Sarah Cunningham

Google

We only had a short visit this time, but well definitely be back. The most remarkable collection of art. So well laid out, brilliant lighting/decor and seating amidst the photos so you can take your time. Free entrance but donation boxes for anything you are able to contribute. Definitely one to revisit.

Alison Medd

Google

The new refurbishment works really well with some brilliantly curated rooms. The Tudors are still there and as popular as ever but I enjoyed the various twentieth century rooms as much. Plus it’s free! A brilliant was to spend a couple of hours.

Chris Tavan

Google

This a beautiful - and free - museum. There are so many things to see. It is one of my favourite places, even with just a couple of hours to kill, and I have been there many times before. I recently went to see the Francis Bacon exhibition. A fantastic selection of some of his best paintings, coming from all over the world, private and museum's collections. This is a highly recommended, accessible place to go if you are in the area.

Illy

Google

It’s great to be able to visit here in London without paying any entrance fee (except the special exhibition of Francis Bacon)! I spent there more than two hours to see all paintings presented quickly. So, you would need more time if you would like to every piece in peace by reading more info than I did. In the first floor, there’s a huge collection of the portraits of Tudors. Similarly, other royal family members‘ portraits take remarkable amount of space, but it’s good to refresh your memory about all the host of the UK. There was only section allocated for the members for pre-view of a new collection. So, be aware of that you may not get in there :)

Seokjin Ham

Google

This is the world’s first national public art gallery dedicated to portraiture. The idea for a National Portrait Gallery was proposed in 1846 by Philip Henry Stanhope and accepted in 1856. The gallery was established in 1856 and relocated to its current site in 1896. The present building was designed by Ewan Christian. It houses portraits of individuals significant to British history and culture. The gallery's permanent collection is free to the public, while special exhibitions require an admission fee.

Tigershout

Google

Definitely mangeable in less than a day. Regular free talks, which I strongly recommend doing, we had a great 15 minute one on Anne Boleyn. Exhibitions are always good, but very popular so the layout sometimes feels a bit crowded. Great restaurant, café and shops. The staff are also fantastic, they've always really helped out or have good tips.

Mo Awwad

Google

A must visit gallery, a beautiful collection of portraits from different eras and styles, classical pieces and modern too. A three story building, you will need at least two hours to finish the whole gallery. The National portrait gallery is so inspiring, thoughtful and offers this beautiful experience for free, photography is allowed. I highly recommend it.

Ruben Ricart

Google

A beautiful gallery featuring artwork from renowned artists. The collection is impressive, showcasing a variety of styles and talent. Definitely worth a visit for art enthusiasts. Also, entry is free, although i recommend that you book the tickets online.

@michelinguide

"I love people’s faces and collect painted portraits and so to have a museum dedicated to the art of creating humans on canvas never gets old to me." - Edward Barsamian

Paul Feig’s London is Dapper, Distinctive and Delicious

test

@afar

The Best Things to Do in London

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Sarah Cunningham

Google

Alison Medd

Google

Chris Tavan

Google

Illy