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Art galleries in London are a big part of the energetic cultural life of London. They offer an unparalleled scale of creative opportunities for people from all around the world. The art galleries have more than 1,500 exhibition spaces, which are often free to view, and there is always something stunning on display here. London has galleries for all kinds of art, from modern to classic. The compiled list below of London’s most notable art galleries ensures you make the most of the city’s art scene.
Top Art Galleries In London
Here is a list of the best Art Galleries in London to make your trip more enriching and informative:
1. South London Gallery
Photo: Reading Tom / Wikimedia Commons
The South London Art Gallery near Camberwell School of Art is London’s best-kept art gallery secret. It has featured big-name artists such as Katharina Grosse Lawrence Weiner and is one of the city’s best art destinations. However, it offers more than just art shows; it also runs fantastic community programmes yearly. In fact 2018, South London Gallery programmes raised enough funds to restore the Fire Station across the road, which is now part of its exciting and growing creative space.
Location: Camberwell, London
How To Reach: Easily accessible by public transport; nearest stations are Denmark Hill (Rail) and Camberwell Green (Bus)
Timings: 11 AM – 6 PM (check for seasonal variations)
Entry Fee: Free, with charges for specific special exhibitions
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2. Barbican Art Gallery
Photo: Ank Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
The Barbican is an art spot not to be missed when it comes to exploring London’s art scene. This gallery is situated at the heart of the City of London, and it features some of the best works of international artists, designers, and architects. Exhibitions at the Barbican Art Gallery push creative boundaries and offer variety in art forms- from taking a deep dive into Jean-Michel Basquiat’s work to punk dancer Michael Clark’s bold choreography to Japanese house design. Barbican is a hub of creativity and inspiration.
Location: Barbican Centre, City of London
How To Reach: Easily accessible by public transport; nearest stations are Barbican (Tube) and Moorgate (Tube and Rail)
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (varies for special events and exhibitions)
Entry Fee: Free for general exhibitions, and charges apply for specific exhibitions
3. Tate Britain And Tate Modern Art Galleries
Photo: Carlos Cunha / Wikimedia Commons
For anyone exploring London’s art and culture, the Tate Britain and Tate Modern Art Galleries are a must-visit. Tate Britain explores the history of British art, which features many famous artists’ works. It is a reminder and testament to the creativity of humankind and how it has evolved over the years. It is a reminder and testament to the creativity of humankind and how it has evolved over the years. Tate Modern is all about new and exciting ideas. Opened in 2000, it’s a favourite spot for its bold exhibitions and modern art exhibitions. The famous Turbine Hall hosts huge art installations. It is one of those galleries that have changed how people see art today.
Location: Tate Britain (Millbank) and Tate Modern (Bankside), London
How To Reach: Tate Britain – The nearest station is Pimlico (Tube); Tate Modern – The nearest stations are Southwark (Tube) and Blackfriars (Tube and Rail)
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free for general entry; charges apply for special exhibitions
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4. Photographers’ Gallery
Photo: Bo Ponomari / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Photographers’ Gallery is a must-visit for anyone exploring London’s vibrant artistic community. As the city’s most extensive public gallery dedicated to photography, it spans six floors of powerful and inspiring work. Each year, this gallery hosts the prestigious Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize, honouring artists who have had a significant impact on the art world. Past winners include Richard Billingham and Susan Meiselas. The gallery also showcases international legends like Robert Capa and Sebastião Salgado alongside UK talents like Corinne Day. This gallery is the perfect spot for art lovers.
Location: Soho, London
How To Reach: Easily accessible by public transport; nearest stations are Oxford Circus (Tube) and Tottenham Court Road (Tube)
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free for general entry; charges apply for special exhibitions
5. Goldsmiths Centre For Contemporary Art
Photo: RyanMcGuire / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
This art gallery on Goldsmiths’ campus is in a restored Victorian bathhouse. The award-winning Assemble group redesigned it. The Goldsmiths Centre houses eight galleries, plus a rooftop space, showing exciting new commissions, historical works, and research-led exhibitions. It also has its vibrant Residents programme at the front gallery, regularly featuring local community groups, student projects, and alumni initiatives. A Grade II-listed space, it goes against traditional art conventions with a fresh, bold take on the gallery experience.
Location: Goldsmiths’ Campus, London
How To Reach: Easily accessible via local transport; a short walk from New Cross and New Cross Gate stations
Timings: Open daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
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6. Camden Art Centre
Photo: Camden Arts Centre / Wikimedia Commons
Camden Art Centre, set in a former library in Hampstead, has been a creative hub since 1965. Once offering art classes for the local community, it’s now one of the most loved art galleries in London, known for its light-filled spaces, cosy café, and unique shop. The centre hosts cutting-edge exhibitions featuring artists like Haroon Mirza, Eva Hesse, and Doris Salcedo, alongside retrospectives of conceptual greats like Bas Jan Ader. This north London gem is perfect for a weekend visit and blends history with inspiring contemporary art.
Location: Finchley Road, Hampstead, London
How To Reach: Easily accessible by local transport; the nearest station is Finchley Road (Jubilee and Metropolitan lines)
Timings: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
7. Institute Of Contemporary Arts (ICA)
Photo: MiracleKilly / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) is a must-visit for anyone exploring art galleries in London. Nestled on The Mall, it’s been at the forefront of bold, boundary-pushing art since 1946. Known as the birthplace of pop art, The Institute of Contemporary Arts hosts edgy exhibitions and has an arthouse cinema, live music, and creative residencies with writers, poets, and musicians experiencing art, each in his own way. With its inspirational energy, this space is perfect for anyone on the lookout for discovering the next significant art movement.
Location: The Mall, London
How To Reach: The nearest station is Charing Cross or Piccadilly Circus
Timings: Open daily, 12 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Nominal fee for exhibitions; discounts available for students
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8. Whitechapel Gallery
Photo: GrindtXX / Wikimedia Commons
Whitechapel Gallery, a cultural landmark in London’s East End since 1901, was created to bring amazing art to the local community. Over the years, it has showcased legendary works, including Picasso’s Guernica, and introduced artists like Jackson Pollock and Frida Kahlo to London audiences. Today, it remains one of the must-visit art galleries in London, known for highlighting emerging and established artists through world-class exhibitions. With its rich history and dedication to creativity, Whitechapel Gallery is a vibrant spot for anyone looking to explore the city’s dynamic art scene.
Location: Whitechapel High Street, London
How To Reach: Accessible by local transport; the nearest station is Aldgate East (Hammersmith & City and District lines)
Timings: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free entry for most exhibitions; some may have a nominal fee with student discounts available
9. Serpentine Art Gallery
Photo: Edwardx / Wikimedia Commons
The Serpentine Galleries are must-see art galleries in London, offering cutting-edge exhibitions in a calm setting. The South Gallery, housed in a former tea pavilion since 1970, and the North Gallery, added in 2013, showcase works from big names like Marina Abramović, Damien Hirst, and Grayson Perry, alongside emerging talent. Known for its adventurous exhibitions and annual pavilion commission, the Serpentine combines art and nature beautifully. Its tranquil location near Kensington High Street makes it a perfect spot for art lovers and sightseers.
Location: Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, London
How To Reach: Accessible by local transport; nearest stations are Lancaster Gate (Central line) and South Kensington (Circle, District, and Piccadilly lines)
Timings: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free for most exhibitions; nominal fee for special events with discounts for students
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10. Royal Academy Of Arts
Photo: Txllxt TxllxT / Wikimedia Commons
The Royal Academy of Arts (RA), nestled in Burlington House on Piccadilly, has been a beacon of art exhibitions and cultural events in London since 1768. This independent institution, led by artists and architects, celebrates creativity through stunning exhibitions and engaging debates. From iconic shows like 2016’s ‘Abstract Expressionism’ to its free, permanent collection, the RA continues to amaze. The Summer Exhibition, where amateurs and pros share the spotlight, is a true gem. With its rich history and exciting events, the RA is a must-visit for every art enthusiast in London.
Location: Burlington House, Piccadilly, London
How To Reach: Easily accessible via London Underground; the closest station is Green Park (a 5-minute walk)
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Friday until 10 PM)
Entry Fee: Free for the permanent collection; nominal charges for temporary exhibitions, with student discounts
Creativity and stories simply burst from art galleries in London. Here is something for everyone: timelessly great masterpieces in the Royal Academy to more contemporary work at the South London Gallery. It’s sure that whether one enjoys paintings, photographs, or just plain graphics, London’s art scene can be very thrilling and not to be missed. Book your trip now with TripXL for an experience you’ll never forget.
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
