National Gallery

Introducing the National Gallery

The National Gallery, located in central London, England, offers free admission, relying on donations. For any artist studying Western art in England, the greatest joy is spending their days in the gallery, munching on bread and drinking mineral water. The gallery boasts many renowned works, including Leonardo da Vinci's "Madonna of the Rocks" and "Madonna and Child with Saint Anne and Saint John the Baptist," Michelangelo's "The Entombment," and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers - Fifteen Sunflowers in a Vase."

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons;

It has a temperate oceanic climate with small temperature differences between the four seasons. The summers are cool and the winters are warm. The air is humid with frequent rain and fog, especially in autumn and winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for more than 3 hours;

Nearby attractions: Oxford Street, the Thames, the London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben, etc.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

10:00-18:00 (Saturday to Thursday, January 2nd - December 31st) 10:00-21:00 (Friday, January 2nd - December 31st)

Closed to the public: December 24th - December 26th; January 1st - Monday to Sunday

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Most Popular FAQs for National Gallery

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The National Gallery in London was founded in 1824 and houses one of the finest collections of Western European paintings in the world. The collection spans over 700 years, featuring works from the medieval period to the 20th century. It is located in Trafalgar Square, and its masterpieces have become essential to the cultural identity of the United Kingdom.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square, central London. The nearest Underground station is Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines). It is also accessible by bus, taxi, or walking from major landmarks such as Leicester Square and Covent Garden.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The gallery is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays (10:00 AM to 9:00 PM). The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays when it's less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry to the National Gallery is free, though special exhibitions may require a ticket. Tickets for these exhibitions can be purchased online via the gallery’s official website or in person at the entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For permanent collection entry, no ticket is required, and no advance booking is needed. However, for special exhibitions, it's recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during busy seasons. Tickets for exhibitions can typically be booked a few weeks before the visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the main collection, allow 2 to 3 hours. If attending a special exhibition or taking a guided tour, you might need up to 4 hours to fully experience the gallery.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Sunflowers by Van Gogh.
• Leonardo da Vinci's "The Virgin of the Rocks."
• Turner's landscapes and Rembrandt's self-portraits.
• The Sainsbury Wing, which features early Renaissance masterpieces.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English, and audio guides are available in multiple languages, including French, German, Spanish, Italian, and others. Audio guides are available for both the permanent collection and special exhibitions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main entrance hall with its grand architecture provides a perfect opportunity for photos.
• The "Sunflowers" room in the gallery is often a favorite photography spot due to the vibrant colors of the painting.
• Take photos from the outside, with the National Gallery in the background of Trafalgar Square.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested route is to start with the early Renaissance art in the Sainsbury Wing, then move on to the Dutch Golden Age and the later European masters in the main galleries. Finish by visiting the Impressionists and Post-Impressionist sections in the West Wing.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The gallery is open late on Fridays, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with special events and exhibitions. However, there are no light shows or night tours, as the National Gallery focuses on quiet evening hours for visitors to experience the art in a calmer setting.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The gallery can get crowded, especially during weekends and school holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly Tuesday to Thursday mornings. Evenings on Fridays are also less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets located throughout the gallery. A café and a restaurant provide food and drink options, and water fountains are available. The gallery shop offers a wide range of art-related merchandise and souvenirs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The National Gallery is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and wheelchairs available for disabled visitors. There are also child-friendly activities and family spaces to enhance the experience for young visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (such as Apple Pay and Google Pay) are accepted throughout the gallery, including in the café, restaurant, and shop. Cash is not required.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• The National Café inside the gallery offers a range of British dishes.
• The Portrait Restaurant offers views over Trafalgar Square and is perfect for a more upscale dining experience.
• Nearby cafes and restaurants include The Wolseley, a classic London brasserie, and a number of cafés around Leicester Square.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, the National Café offers vegetarian and vegan options, as well as halal-friendly dishes. Nearby restaurants such as The Wolseley also cater to vegetarian, vegan, and halal diets.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Royal Trafalgar Hotel is within walking distance of the National Gallery.
• For a luxury experience, The Ritz London is nearby.
• Premier Inn London Leicester Square is a more budget-friendly option close to the gallery.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Visit the nearby National Portrait Gallery, just a short walk away.
• Take a stroll through Covent Garden, known for its shops, restaurants, and street performers.
• The British Museum is a short walk from the gallery and makes for a great addition to a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The National Gallery shop sells art prints, books, postcards, and replicas of famous paintings, as well as other art-themed merchandise such as stationery and jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• The London Underground (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) is easily accessible at Leicester Square and Charing Cross stations.
• Buses to other parts of London can be caught from Trafalgar Square.
• Consider a Thames River cruise from Westminster Pier for a scenic route around the city.