The most popular art galleries in London

If you and your loved ones are passionate about art and culture and are looking at how to spend a rainy day in London, you've come to the right place. 

At Grand Central, we have curated a list of the 12 best art galleries in London that you absolutely can't miss during your visit, allowing you to hop straight off the train to admire your favourite piece of art.

Whether you're looking to explore classic masterpieces or cutting-edge contemporary works, these galleries offer something for everyone.

Autograph Gallery 

Located in Hackney, Autograph is more than just an art gallery; it’s an advocacy charity dedicated to promoting the work of artists who use photography and film to explore themes of race, representation, human rights, and social justice.

Beyond its inclusive gallery spaces, Autograph features an education studio and pop-up cinema spots, making it an educational destination in London's art scene.

Dulwich Picture Gallery

Founded over 200 years ago in South London, Dulwich Picture Gallery was first established to provide public access to great art. Today, it remains a beacon of art appreciation, housing one of the finest collections of Old Masters.

Spend an afternoon admiring masterpieces from the French, Italian, and Spanish Baroque traditions, as well as British portraits dating back to the Tudor era.

Goldsmiths Centre for Contemporary Art

Housed in a quirky Victorian former bathhouse in Lewisham, the Goldsmiths Centre for Contemporary Art is aligned with the renowned Goldsmiths, University of London.

This gallery offers diverse exhibitions that provide thought-provoking inspiration for the public, artists, students, and academics. The centre also hosts talks, performances, films, and other cultural events for those who love to learn.

Haricot Gallery

A recent addition to London's cultural scene, the Haricot Gallery in Shoreditch was founded in 2023 to transform the way art is experienced.

The gallery's exhibitions reflect contemporary political and social issues, ensuring that the stories behind the art are central to the visitor experience.

Hauser & Wirth

Hauser & Wirth on Savile Row is part of an international chain of exhibition spaces. With both North and South Galleries, it's an ideal spot for those interested in artist talks, film screenings, and workshops if you want to experience the art scene for yourself. 

Hauser & Wirth is known for supporting visionary artistic projects worldwide, making it a cultural London landmark.

National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery tells the story of Britain through its people, showcasing the world’s greatest collection of portraits. Established in 1856, it was the first gallery of its kind.

After a recent £41.3 million refurbishment, the gallery now features a welcoming entrance, a public forecourt, and a new Learning Centre, making it one of the must-visit art galleries in London.

Royal Academy of Arts

For over 250 years, the Royal Academy of Arts has been a champion of artists. Run by artists and architects elected by their peers, the Royal Academy also houses Britain’s longest-established art school.

Located in Piccadilly, this gallery is open late on Friday nights, allowing you to enjoy fine art during the day and heart-warming dining at night.

Saatchi Gallery

Situated in Sloane Square, the Saatchi Gallery is a recognised authority in contemporary art. Hosting 15 of the 20 most visited exhibitions in London within recent years.

Since becoming a registered charity in 2019, the gallery has focused on engaging and educating diverse audiences while supporting emerging artists.

Tate Britain

Explore British art from the 16th century onwards at Tate Britain, where the grand portico entrance sets the tone for a day of cultural appreciation.

Situated along the River Thames, Tate Britain also offers a library and archive reading rooms, making it a centre of excellence for art history research.

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is a must-see for lovers of contemporary art.

As the UK’s most visited attraction in 2019, it features sculptures, paintings, and large-scale installations from artists worldwide. The gallery also offers a space dedicated to live performances and video art, contrasting with the historic focus of Tate Britain.

The National Gallery

Located in Trafalgar Square, The National Gallery is an iconic British landmark celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2024. 

With over 2,300 paintings from renowned artists like da Vinci and Van Gogh, this gallery offers a full day of exploration for art lovers of all ages.

Whitechapel Gallery

Founded in 1901, Whitechapel Gallery in East London offers a rich cultural experience with nine different exhibition spaces, a specialist bookshop, and a well-reviewed restaurant. Embedded in the local community yet globally connected, it’s a great spot to visit during your time in the city.

Grand trains and grand art

Start your art journey by admiring the seasonal views on a Grand Central train, where you can get to London fast and efficiently.

Begin by checking our website for tickets that suit your needs, or contact our friendly team for further help and advice.