You cannot visit London without visiting The National Gallery. This iconic building stands proudly at Trafalgar Square in the centre of London. One of the best Art Galleries in the world – and it’s free!
The National Gallery Building
The building at Trafalgar Square was built to house the collection of paintings in 1838 by the architect William Wilkins. Since then, it has survived the second world war and is now home to over 2300 paintings.
There are two main entrances at the front. The Portico entrance is up the main steps to visit the free galleries. There is an accessible entrance to the right, the Getty entrance which has a lift. There will most likely be queues but they do move quickly. I would advise booking a free ticket beforehand so you can join the priority queue.
There is an airport-style scanner to walk through and a bag check. They are very strict on what you can bring in. Even water in a bottle needs to be poured away. Some paintings have been targeted by activists with paint etc in recent times so their security is heightened. My recommendation would be to either buy a water bottle after you visit or wait to visit until the end of your day in London.
The fabulous shop can be visited just inside the Portico entrance.
Eating and Drinking
Just inside the Getty Entrance you can visit Muriel’s Kitchen, a relaxed café or the more formal Ochre restaurant without needing to go through security.
There is an Espresso Bar just ahead of the main entrance on the ground floor.
Getting To The National Gallery
The nearest tube and train station is at Charing Cross, just a few minutes walk away.
Read more: Best Apps to plan your journey in London
Opening Hours
It is open daily from 10am to 6pm except Fridays when it stays open late until 9pm.
It is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Day
Tickets
You can book a free general admission ticket to save queueing. You can however just turn up to visit but will need to queue.
Toilets and Cloakroom
There are toilets by each entrance. A cloakroom for larger bags is available for £2 per item. Suitcases are not allowed.
Car parking
There is one parking space for Blue Badge holders which you can book in advance. Contact the National Gallery for more information.
Accessibility
There are talks and sessions available for visitors who are deaf or blind. You can reserve a wheelchair before your visit if necessary.
Read more: Access arrangements at The National Gallery
Top Tips for visiting The National Gallery
- Book a free ticket before you visit. You will then be able to skip the majority of the queues in the priority lane.
- Download the Smartify App. If you hold your phone up towards a painting, you will read more detailed information about the work.
- Don’t bring in any food or drink – even a water bottle. It will be confiscated
- Free 60 minute guided tours are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 3pm. They will give you a taster of the different Art on display which you can then explore in more detail in your own time.
