Centrally located just off Piccadilly Circus, The Royal Academy is perfect for a quick wander to soak in some culture or to linger and enjoy wandering around discovering all the different rooms. This art gallery is free to visit with paid displays.
Opposite Fortnum and Mason on Piccadilly is Burlington House where The Royal Academy of Art has it’s home. There are two entrances however and you can walk through the main entrance and out the other on Burlington Gardens.
History of The Royal Academy of Art
Founded in 1768 by artists and architects; for over 250 years this independent Art charity not only showcases Art and Design but teaches it too. It is still led by artists and architects who are elected by their peers.
The Exhibitions and Displays
I loved the quirkiness of the exhibitions presented around the building. It was hard to navigate where to find each display as there were no maps readily available so I just got lost wandering around, stumbling upon each piece.
It is certainly an eclectic place. The building is beautiful and I liked that they used each room in a different way. From artwork made out of toilet rolls and cabbages (!) to classic sculptures: there really is something for everyone.
The Royal Academy Cafe
The café is a great place to visit. As Burlington House is centrally located in London to most tourist areas it is be a less crowded place to take a break. With murals on the walls, you can still be inspired by the Art while you have a cup of tea or a more leisurely lunch.
Getting To The Royal Academy of Art
It is a 5 minute walk from Piccadilly Circus, opposite Fortnum and Mason.
Read more: Best Apps to plan your journey in London
Opening Hours
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm
On Fridays, it opens late until 9pm
Closed on Mondays
Tickets to The Royal Academy of Art
There are many free exhibitions and displays with no need to book.
If you’re interested in a particular paid exhibition you will need to book a ticket in advance.
Read more: Book a ticket at The Royal Academy
Toilets
There are plenty of toilets available with accessible toilets located behind the main staircase, down the hallway to the right.
Eating and Drinking
There is a cafe and restaurant on site.
Locally, I would recommend the (mainly indoor) rooftop cafe at Waterstones, just a couple of minutes around the corner. Particularly their 2for1 cocktails
Fortnum and Mason opposite have a few options for different times of the day: Wine bar, Ice-cream Parlour and a Tea Salon.
Car parking
There are two disabled parking spaces available which you can book in advance. Alternatively, there is a Just Park car garage behind Fortnum and Mason.
