The best art museums in London and what to see in them

The best art museums in London and what to see in them

Appreciate famous works by Picasso, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and more at these top London art museums.

A visit to London is perfect for seeing some of the world's most beloved sights, and that includes its works of art. Most travelers already know about iconic things to do in London, such as visiting Big Ben or touring Buckingham Palace, but it is also a hub for culture, art, and design. 

At the best art museums in London, you can see both classic masterpieces and modern marvels. London's best cultural attractions include the National Gallery, where you can view famous paintings by great masters like Van Gogh and da Vinci, and the Tate Modern, which hosts some of the city's most innovative exhibitions. 

London’s best art museums at a glance

Best for modern art: Tate Modern

Best for design: Victoria and Albert Museum

Best for the great masters: The National Gallery

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photo: Matt Ankers

Keep an eye out for masterpieces like Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" when you visit London's National Gallery

1. National Gallery

Best for: The great masters

Why should I visit the National Gallery?

The National Gallery houses some of the most famous paintings in the world, including works by Van Gogh, da Vinci, and Michelangelo. General admission is always free, but some of the current exhibits may include a fee. This is considered one of the best art museums in London for paintings, and it provides fantastic programs and activities for children and families. 

How long can I spend at the National Gallery?

3-4 hours, making it a great itinerary item for a rainy day.

Most famous artworks at the National Gallery?

The National Gallery is home to the iconic Vincent van Gogh's "Sunflowers," Michelangelo's "The Entombment – of Christ being carried to his tomb," and Leonardo da Vinci's "The Virgin of the Rocks."

Insider tip 

Make a day out of your visit and enjoy lunch at one of the museum's many cafes or the Ochre restaurant. 

Address and opening hours

Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN. Open daily, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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Discover 2 million years of history and culture from six continents at the British Museum.

2. British Museum

Best for: Historical art

Why should I visit the British Museum?

As great for first-time London visitors as locals, the British Museum is one of the most famous art galleries in London. It boasts over 2,000 years of art from around the world in 50 galleries. Check out its extensive collection of sculptures, pottery, jewelry, paintings, and more. 

How long can I spend at the British Museum?

3-4 hours

Most famous artworks at the British Museum?

The Rosetta Stone is the museum's most famous exhibit, while Rembrandt's "Thinking on Paper" is one of the most popular among visitors.

Insider tip 

General admission is free but, as this is one of the most visited art galleries in London, it's best to avoid the bigger crowds between noon and 3:00 PM.

Address and opening hours

Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG. Open Saturday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Friday from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM.

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photo: RB Photo

With over 220,000 works, your visit to the National Portrait Gallery means seeing the world's largest portrait collection.

3. National Portrait Gallery 

Best for: British art

Why should I visit the National Portrait Gallery?

Admire the works of British artists at the National Portrait Gallery, which features a collection of portraits in the form of paintings, sculptures, miniatures, drawings, prints, photographs, and more. 

How long can I spend at the National Portrait Gallery?

2-3 hours

Most famous artwork at the National Portrait Gallery?

John Taylor’s “William Shakespeare” is one of the gallery's most famous paintings on display.

Insider tip 

Make a longer day of your visit by grabbing a coffee, sipping on an afternoon tea, or enjoying fine dining at one of the gallery's four food and drink locations.

Address and opening hours

St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE. Open Sunday through Thursday, 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

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photo: Matt Ankers

Encounter contemporary and modern art from all over the world when you visit the free galleries of Tate Modern.

4. Tate Modern

Best for: Modern art

Why should I visit Tate Modern?

Tate Modern displays some of the most innovative art in London. With a focus on the modern, contemporary space, the collection features sculptures, large-scale displays, and live performances. The drawing studio also allows visitors to create their own designs on digital sketch pads that are then temporarily displayed via projection screens. 

How long can I spend at Tate Modern?

1-2 hours

Most famous artwork at Tate Modern?

Tate Modern features some of Pablo Picasso's most famous artworks, including his "Bust of a Woman."

Insider tip 

Take the Tate Boat and add a visit to Tate Britain, which displays historical and modern British artworks.

Address and opening hours

Bankside, London SE1 9TG. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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photo: Txllxt TxllxT

Step back into Britain’s artistic past with the different gallery exhibits at Tate Britain.

5. Tate Britain

Best for: Modern and historical British art

Why should I visit Tate Britain?

The sister museum of Tate Modern, Tate Britain houses over 500 years of British art, from the 16th century to modern day. The museum focuses on collecting a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and artisanal objects to make its collection diverse and inclusive. 

How long can I spend at Tate Britain?

1-2 hours

Most famous artwork at Tate Britain?

One of the most prominent artworks at Tate Britain is John Everett Millais' painting "Ophelia."

Insider tip 

Don't miss a visit to one or both of the museum's two cafes, which are artworks themselves. The upstairs cafe has a lovely view of the entrance hall, while the downstairs cafe shows off a ceiling painting by Glasgow artist France-Lise McGurn. 

Address and opening hours

Millbank, London SW1P 4RG. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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See some of Britain’s favorite art, culture, and design on your visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum.

6. Victoria and Albert Museum

Best for: Design lovers

Why should I visit the Victoria and Albert Museum?

The Victoria and Albert Museum has over 2.8 million objects, making it the largest museum of applied arts and design in the world. The vast collection includes a wide range of items, including clothing, furniture, prints, books, photography, jewelry, architecture, and theatrical pieces. 

How long can I spend at the Victoria and Albert Museum?

2-4 hours

Most famous artwork at the Victoria and Albert Museum?

Tippoo's Tiger is the most popular sculpture on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Insider tip 

To avoid the larger crowds, schedule your visit on a weekday afternoon or when the doors first open on the weekend.

Address and opening hours

Cromwell Rd, London SW7 2RL. Open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM; Fridays until 10:00 PM.

FAQs

Are there any free-entry art museums in London?

Many London art museums — including the National Gallery, British Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum — offer free admission. However, exclusive exhibits typically cost extra. 

What’s the most famous art museum in London?

The British Museum is the most famous due to its large, prestigious collection, but the National Gallery, Victoria and Albert Museum, and Tate Modern aren't far behind in popularity.

How much does it cost to see exclusive exhibits at London art museums?

Some of London's best museums and exhibitions can be free or cost up to 40 GBP. For exclusive exhibits, be sure to check in advance for current pricing.

Which London art museum is best for wheelchair access?

The British Museum offers wheelchair access, dedicated parking, and special reservations for individuals with disabilities.

Which art museum in London is best for children?

The National Gallery offers art workshops, enhanced learning opportunities for visitors of all ages, and immersive augmented reality apps for children.

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