London National Gallery
Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London, WC2N 5DN
Home to one of the greatest art collections in the United Kingdom—including paintings by Titian, Vincent van Gogh, and Rembrandt—the London National Gallery is among the most popular attractions in the city. With artwork spanning hundreds of years, from the mid-13th century to 1900, the free-to-visit museum stands overlooking Trafalgar Square and is easy to explore as part of a cultural day out in London.
The basics
The National Gallery is a popular London attraction, with hop-on, hop-off bus tours stopping right outside. Visitors to the museum can explore independently or opt for a private London National Gallery tour with an art historian guide. Alternatively, you can purchase a London Pass and enjoy entrance to the National Gallery and a host of other London museums and attractions.
Things to know before you go
The gallery offers free entry to its permanent collection, so you do not need London National Gallery tickets for general admission. However, some special exhibitions may require tickets, which you can purchase in advance.
London National Gallery tours include a level of personalization and ensure you see all the top exhibits.
Visitor facilities include restrooms, a coat check, a gift shop, a café, and a restaurant.
The National Gallery is wheelchair accessible—lifts and ramps are available on all floors.
The National Gallery in London offers free entry to its permanent collection, so you do not need tickets for general admission. However, some special exhibitions may require tickets, which you can purchase in advance on the National Gallery's website. It’s a good idea to check ahead for any ticketed events or exhibitions during your visit
How to get there
The National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square in Central London, an easy walk from Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden, or the Thames riverfront. The closest tube station is Charing Cross.
When to get there
The National Gallery welcomes visitors year-round but often fills up during peak summer months. To avoid crowds, arrive early and plan your visit for a weekday if possible. The site is open daily from 10am to 6pm, with extended hours until 9pm on Fridays.
The masterpieces of the National Gallery
The museum’s permanent collection includes over 2,300 paintings dating from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. It includes pieces from iconic artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, da Vinci, Holbein, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Ruben, and Van Eyck.
Ways to explore
The London National Gallery is located in the heart of the city, making it easy to visit as part of a sightseeing tour. Hop-on hop-off bus tours stop right outside, as do many walking tours of the British capital’s highlights (which also visit nearby attractions such as Big Ben, Downing Street, and Buckingham Palace). You can choose to explore the museum independently or opt for a private tour with an art historian guide for a more in-depth experience. Whatever you pick, look out for collection highlights, including Jan Van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait and Hans Holbein the Younger’s The Ambassadors.
Accessibility
The London National Gallery is accessible to wheelchair users and lets visitors request wheelchairs in advance. Service animals are welcome, and accommodations for visitors with hearing loss are provided.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Handheld bag, sketchpad and pencils, camera
What to wear
Comfortable walking shoes, layers
Not allowed
Most liquids, luggage or large bags, flash photography, selfie sticks
Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, restrooms, paid cloakroom, cafés, bars
Address
The London National Gallery is located in the city center, directly overlooking Trafalgar Square. In addition to sightseeing tours, abundant public transit options make getting there simple, while taxis and rideshare services offer another way to visit.
Driving
Owing to the museum’s location in the middle of busy Central London, it’s not recommended to drive to the National Gallery. Black cabs and rideshare services offer a better way to get there.
Public transportation
Take the Bakerloo or Northern lines on the London Underground to Charing Cross station, or use mainline train services. Alternatively, you can take the Northern or Piccadilly lines to Leicester Square.
Best times to visit
For a calmer experience, arrive when the museum opens in mid-morning, or come on Friday evenings. Free, fast-track tickets can be booked online if you’re visiting when it’s busy.
Best days to visit
Expect weekends and public holidays to be busy times at the museum. Weekdays are generally calmer, especially earlier in the week.
Best months to visit
The museum is likely to be at its busiest during the summer. Aim for the winter off-season if you want to deal with fewer crowds.
Special events
In addition to its permanent collection, the London National Gallery also hosts several major temporary exhibitions every year.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!