15 Free Art Gallery In London To Visit

Free art gallery in London are a great way to enjoy the city and its many diverse cultures. There are galleries for all types of art, from modern to classical, and they provide a great opportunity to see some of the world’s most famous works of art up close. Best of all, admission to most free art galleries is absolutely free!

Tate Modern London

London is home to many of the world’s most prestigious art institutions, such as the Tate Modern and the National Gallery, so there is always something new and exciting to see. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a serious art lover, a trip to one of London’s free art galleries is sure to be a memorable experience.

Popular Free Art Gallery in London

There are many free art galleries in London, and below are some of the best.

1. The Whitechapel Gallery

The Whitechapel Gallery is an internationally renowned art gallery located in the heart of London’s East End. The Gallery has a long and rich history, dating back to 1901, when it was founded as a centre for the study of contemporary art.

WhitechapelGallery

Whether you’re interested in seeing the latest exhibition or simply want to learn more about the history of art, the Whitechapel Gallery is sure to have something for you. Today, the Gallery is home to a wide range of exhibitions, educational programs, and public events. 

In addition, the Gallery’s location in the East End makes it easy to combine a visit with exploring one of London’s most vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhoods. So if you’re looking for an enlightening and enjoyable day out, be sure to add the Whitechapel Gallery to your list.

You can read my guide to the best free museums in London.

2. Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is a must-see for any art lover visiting London. Housed in a former power station, the museum has been transformed into a stunning display of modern and contemporary art.

London Tate Modern

Highlights include the Turbine Hall, which hosts a variety of large-scale installations, and the permanent collection, which features works by some of the world’s most celebrated artists. With so much to see, the Tate Modern will delight and inspire visitors of all ages.

3. Ido Art Gallery

The Ido Art Gallery is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. It’s a small, intimate space that features rotating exhibitions of local artists. The Gallery also has a charming cafe, which is the perfect place to relax with a cup of coffee and admire the art on the walls.

The Ido Art Gallery is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for something different from the typical tourist attractions. The gallery staff are passionate about promoting local artists, and they always have an interesting selection of artwork on display. Plus, it’s a great place to people-watch and soaks up the atmosphere of the city. So if you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, be sure to check out the Ido Art Gallery.

4. Wallace Collection

The Wallace Collection is one of London’s hidden gems. Housed in a majestic 18th-century townhouse, the collection includes paintings, furniture, ceramics, and other objets d’art from the medieval to the early 20th century.

Wallace Collection

What makes the Wallace Collection so special is its intimate setting; unlike many other museums, you can get up close to the works of art and appreciate their beauty. The collection is also notable for its breadth, with something to appeal to everyone from art enthusiasts to history buffs. Whether you’re looking to spend an afternoon admiring masterpieces or simply escape the hustle and bustle of the city, a visit to the Wallace Collection is sure to delight you.

5. Foundling Museum

Nestled in the heart of Bloomsbury, the Foundling Museum is a hidden gem that tells the story of London’s first children’s hospital. Founded in 1739 by Thomas Coram, the hospital was a pioneering institution that provided care for abandoned and orphaned children.

Foundling Museum

Today, the museum houses an impressive collection of artworks, manuscripts, and objects that tell the story of the hospital and its founder. The museum is also home to a tranquil garden, which is a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll. With its fascinating history and tranquil setting, the Foundling Museum is well worth a visit.

6. Geffrye Museum of the Home

The Geffrye Museum of the Home is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the home. Housed in a series of former almshouses, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the changing design and function of the home over 400 years.

With a range of interactive exhibits, the museum brings to life the experience of living in different eras, from the medieval period to the present day. Whether you’re curious about how our ancestors lived or simply want to get some inspiration for your own home, a visit to the Geffrye Museum is sure to be informative and enjoyable.

7. Royal Academy of Arts

The Royal Academy of Arts is one of the most respected art institutions in the world. Founded in 1768, it has a long history of promoting the arts and supporting artists. Today, it is home to an outstanding collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and prints.

The Royal Academy is open to the public, and admission is free. Visitors can explore the galleries at their own pace or take part in one of the many guided tours offered by the staff. 

It also houses a library and archives, which contain a wealth of information on the history of art. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a new place to explore, the Royal Academy is definitely worth a visit.

8. Saatchi Gallery

The Saatchi Gallery is one of the world’s premier art galleries, located in London’s Chelsea neighbourhood. The Gallery is known for its cutting-edge exhibitions, which often showcase emerging artists from around the world.

Saatchi Gallery

Visitors can expect to see a wide range of art styles on display, from traditional paintings and sculptures to installations and video art. The Saatchi Gallery is also home to a café and shop, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring the world of contemporary art. Whether you’re a die-hard art fan or simply looking for something new and exciting to do, the Saatchi Gallery is definitely worth a visit.

9. Barbican Art Gallery

The Barbican Art Gallery is home to one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in Europe. With over 2,500 works on display, the Gallery offers something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of painting, sculpture, or photography.

The Barbican Centre Guide

In addition to the permanent collection, the Gallery also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions, ensuring that there’s always something new to see. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a place to spend an afternoon, the Barbican Art Gallery is well worth a visit.

10. Serpentine Gallery

Situated in the heart of Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine Gallery is one of London’s most iconic art institutions. Founded in 1970, the Gallery has a rich history of championing contemporary artists and is known for its stunning architecture, designed by leading architects such as Zaha Hadid and Rem Koolhaas.

The Gallery frequently hosts exhibitions by world-renowned artists, making it a must-visit for any art lover. In addition, the Serpentine Gallery also has a popular programme of talks and events, giving visitors the opportunity to engage with the work on display. Whether you’re an ardent art fan or simply looking to while away an afternoon in one of London’s most beautiful parks, a visit to the Serpentine Gallery is sure to be a rewarding experience.

11. The Photographers’ Gallery

The Photographers’ Gallery is one of the most important institutions for contemporary photography in the world. Founded in 1971, it was the first Gallery in London dedicated to photography and continues to be a leading voice in the field.

Whether you are a budding photographer or simply interested in seeing some of the best contemporary work on display, a visit to the Photographers’ Gallery is essential. The Gallery has staged some of the most influential exhibitions of recent years, including major retrospectives of photographers such as Garry Winogrand, Lee Friedlander and Henri Cartier-Bresson. 

It is also home to an extensive programme of educational events, talks and workshops, making it the perfect place to learn more about this fascinating art form.

12. William Morris Gallery

The William Morris Gallery is a hidden gem in the North of London. The Gallery is housed in the romantic Walthamstow Marshes, where William Morris, one of Britain’s most influential designers, lived and worked in the 19th century.

William Morris Gallery

Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful place to enjoy a summer’s day, the William Morris Gallery is well worth a visit. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, take a stroll through the working kitchen garden, and see original examples of Morris’s colourful and distinctive designs. 

The Gallery also has an excellent programme of temporary exhibitions, which showcase the work of other leading designers from around the world.

13. Autograph Gallery London

The Autograph Gallery in London is one of the most unique and fascinating museums in the city. It houses an extensive collection of handwritten letters, documents, and other artefacts from some of the most famous people in history.

The Gallery offers visitors a rare opportunity to see firsthand how these great figures communicated with the world. In addition, the Gallery provides a valuable glimpse into the past, helping us to better understand the events that shaped our world. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fascinating place to visit, the Autograph Gallery is well worth a trip.

14. South London Gallery

The South London Gallery is one of the most exciting art venues in the capital, with a constantly changing programme of exhibitions and events. Situated in an old Victorian baths building, the Gallery has a variety of well-lit and airy galleries, as well as a lovely rooftop café with views over the surrounding area.

The Gallery is free to enter, and there is also a shop selling a range of books, art supplies and souvenirs whether you’re an art lover or just looking for somewhere to while away a couple of hours, the South London Gallery is definitely worth a visit.

15. Guildhall Art Gallery

The Guildhall Art Gallery is one of London’s hidden gems. Tucked away in the City of London, it’s often overlooked by tourists in favour of more famous museums. But those who take the time to visit the Guildhall Art Gallery are rewarded with a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history.

Guildhall Art Gallery

The Gallery houses an impressive collection of artworks, ranging from ancient Roman statues to medieval tapestries. There are also paintings by some of Britain’s most famous artists, including J.M.W. Turner and John Constable. 

Best of all, admission to the Gallery is free, making it a great option for budget-minded travellers. So if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path activity in London, be sure to add the Guildhall Art Gallery to your list.

How to make the most of your visit to a free art gallery in London

1. Decide which art gallery you want to visit. There are many to choose from, so pick the one that best suits your interests.

2. Do some research in advance. Each art gallery has its own unique collection, so it’s a good idea to read up on what’s on display before you go. This will help you make the most of your visit.

3. Arrive early. Most art galleries get very busy later in the day, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid crowds.

4. Take your time. Don’t feel rushed or intimidated by the other visitors – take your time and savour the experience.

5. Ask questions. If you don’t understand something, don’t be afraid to ask the attendant for help. They’ll be happy to explain everything to you.

Conclusion To Free Art Galleries in London

Visiting a free art gallery in London can be a great way to spend an afternoon. There are many galleries to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that appeals to you. 

Be sure to do some research in advance, so you know what’s on display, and arrive early to avoid the crowds. Take your time and enjoy the experience!


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