Discover the National Portrait Gallery Stunning Portraits at The National Portrait Gallery, London
Deposit Photos

Discover the National Portrait Gallery

Things To Do In London

Stunning Portraits at The National Portrait Gallery, London
Deposit Photos

Navigating The National Portrait Gallery : Answers to common questions

  • Washrooms: Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are provided.
  • Hours of Operation: Typical opening hours are from 10 AM to 6 PM, with late night opening on Fridays.
  • Important Information: Check for temporary exhibitions, talks, and special events.
  • Admission Fee: Free entry to the gallery, though some special exhibitions may charge.
  • How Long to Visit: Visitors often spend 1-2 hours exploring the collections and exhibitions.
  • Parking: Limited nearby parking; using public transport is advisable.
  • Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, offering various family-friendly programs and exhibitions.
  • Photography: Photography is permitted in some areas, but restrictions apply to certain exhibits.
  • WIFI: Free WIFI available within the gallery.
  • Picnic Area: No picnic areas inside, but nearby St. Martin's Place offers outdoor seating.
  • Handicap Accessible: The gallery is accessible, with elevators and ramps for wheelchair users.
  • Pets: Service animals are welcome; other pets are not allowed.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours offer additional insights into the collections and featured exhibitions.
  • Restaurant or Cafe: A café and a restaurant are present, offering meals and refreshments.
  • Gift Shop: The gallery shop features a wide array of art books, prints, and unique gifts.

    Please note all times and prices subject to change. Please check the offical website for details.

    Embarking on a journey to explore the cultural and artistic heart of London leads us to the splendid National Portrait Gallery, a sanctuary that houses the essence of Britain's historical figures and modern-day icons through the art of portraiture. Established in 1856, it stands as the first portrait gallery in the world, boasting an extensive collection that encapsulates the richness of British history, art, and identity. From kings, queens, and statesmen to artists, writers, and celebrities, the gallery’s collection spans over centuries, offering a unique lens through which to view the changing faces of Britain.

    Visitors to the National Portrait Gallery are greeted by an impressive array of artworks, from the earliest Tudor portraits to contemporary photographs, each with a story that paints a fuller picture of British heritage. Noteworthy is the gallery's ability to bridge the past and the present, a testament to its dynamic collection policy. Walking through the galleries, one is struck by the evolution of artistic styles and the gallery's commitment to showcasing diversity in its portrayal of notable figures. The Gallery does not merely display portraits; it narrates the nation's collective saga through the eyes of its subjects and the hands of countless artists across generations.

    Among its many treasures, the Gallery's highlights include iconic paintings such as the Chandos portrait of William Shakespeare, believed to be the only likeness made during his lifetime, and the mesmerizing portrait of Queen Elizabeth I, known as the ‘Ditchley’ portrait. Equally compelling are the contemporary works that challenge the traditional notions of portraiture, emphasizing the Gallery’s role in fostering artistic innovation. In addition, the Gallery hosts an array of temporary exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs, enriching the visitor experience with deeper insights into the art and its historical context.

    What sets the National Portrait Gallery apart is its profound ability to connect visitors with the figures who have shaped and continue to influence British culture and history. Each portrait tells a personal story, set against the broader backdrop of the country’s social, political, and cultural evolution. This intangible thread that connects the past with the present is what makes a visit to the Gallery a profoundly moving experience. One does not simply view art; one engages in a dialogue with history itself.

    For those intrigued by the power of portraiture to immortalize personalities and narrate stories, the National Portrait Gallery presents a fascinating venue to explore. This venerable institution does not just preserve history; it invites us to ponder on our own place within the ongoing narrative of human achievement and aspiration. Whether you are a lover of art, history, or simply curious about the influential figures who have shaped Britain, this gallery promises an enriching journey through the corridors of time, celebrated through the art of portraiture.

    Did You Know These Facts About The National Portrait Gallery ?

    The National Portrait Gallery in London was The first portrait gallery in The world when it opened in 1856.

    The gallery is located close to Trafalgar Square and has over 200,000 portraits, The most extensive collection of its kind.

    The gallery houses a collection of portraits of historically important and famous British people, but not for Their artistry, but for Their subjects.

    The collection includes works ranging from The 16th century to The present day.

    The gallery hosts The annual BP Portrait Award, one of The most prestigious portrait painting competitions in The world.

    success

    Currency Exchange Rates for United Kingdom

    1 GBP = 1.2002 € EUR
    1 GBP = 1.2585 $ USD
    1 GBP = 1.7846 $ CAD
    1 GBP = 191.8255 ¥ JPY
    1 GBP = 1.1329 ₣ CHF
    1 GBP = 9.1408 元CNY
    1 GBP = 9.7958 圓 HKD
    1 GBP = 1.9834 $ AUD
    1 GBP = 2.2027 $ NZD

    NOTE: Exchange rates are an average currency exchange rate from several sources. These rates are not buy or sell rates which will depend on when and where you buy or sell currency.

    Verified & Trusted Contact Information for The National Portrait Gallery

    Address:

    St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE, United Kingdom

    Telephone: +44 20 7306 0055

    Official Website: www.npg.org.uk/

    Latitude: 51.5095

    Longitude: -0.1282

    Map for The National Portrait Gallery

    London Current Weather

    Local Temp: 3℃ / 37.4℉

    High: 3.7℃ / 38.7℉

    Low: 1.8℃ / 35.2℉

    Humidity: 82 %

    More Places and Things To Do in London Within 25 kilometers/15 miles of The National Portrait Gallery

    View All Things To Do In London

    View All In Things To Do In London