Top Things To Do In The National Gallery (London) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in The National Gallery

1. 1. Highlights Tour of The National Gallery

   Experience the rich tapestry of Europe's art history with the Highlights Tour at The National Gallery in London. This expertly guided tour offers an in-depth look at some of the Gallery's most treasured works. Stretching from the Renaissance to the French Impressionists, you will witness the grandeur of artists like Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner. The tour dives into the contexts and stories behind the famous paintings, making it an enriching experience whether you are an art aficionado or a curious observer looking to learn more about European art.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

2. 2. Art Workshop for Families

   Unleash your family's creativity at The National Gallery's Art Workshop. Designed to engage children and adults alike, these workshops are a wonderful experience that allows families to learn together. Each session focuses on a particular theme or artwork from the Gallery's collection, guiding participants to create their own masterpieces with the help of professional artists. Participants are provided with all the materials they need, and by the end of the workshop, each family has a unique piece of art to take home and cherish.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Free, but booking may be required

3. 3. Late Night Opening

   The National Gallery offers a special opportunity to see its prestigious collection under the calming cloak of the evening during its Late Night Openings. This experience is perfect for visitors looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy the artworks in a more tranquil setting. These late openings often include talks, musical performances, and special temporary exhibitions, providing visitors with a unique cultural experience. The museum's lighting during these events adds a dramatic touch, highlighting the beauty of each individual work of art.

   Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Free

4. 4. Introduction to the National Gallery

   Perfect for first-time visitors, the Introduction to the National Gallery tour is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the museum's vast collection. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour will navigate you through the key paintings and periods represented, ensuring you don't miss any of the must-see works. It’s a fantastic way to acquaint yourself with the gallery's layout, learn about the evolution of European painting, and understand the significance of the masterpieces housed within its walls.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

5. 5. Renaissance Masterpieces Tour

   Delve into the world of the Renaissance with this specialist tour of The National Gallery's extensive collection. Visitors will get an up-close look at the detailed work of titans like Raphael, Titian, and Michelangelo. The tour elucidates how these artists revolutionized art, their innovative use of perspective, and the historical context behind their iconic works. It's an insightful journey that takes you back to the roots of modern Western art and provides a deeper appreciation for the technical skill and storytelling power of these Renaissance creators.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

6. 6. Sketching in the Gallery

   Sketching in the Gallery is a serene activity that invites visitors to slow down and engage intimately with the artworks. With a sketchbook in hand, artists of all skill levels are welcome to capture the masterpieces through their own eyes. Art facilitators are available to provide tips and insights, making this a fantastic way to improve your drawing skills while deeply observing the intricacies of each painting. It's a reflective practice that both amateurs and seasoned artists can enjoy.

   Duration: Self-paced · Price: Free

7. 7. Impressionism and Post-Impressionism Tour

   The National Gallery offers a dedicated tour for lovers of light and color, focusing on the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements. This excursion through the collection introduces visitors to the revolutionary works of Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, and Gauguin. It discusses the radical changes in technique and subject matter that defined the movements and the impact these artists had on the course of art history. The tour provides fascinating insights into the personal lives of the artists and the vibrant scenes they depicted.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

8. 8. The Age of Enlightenment Tour

   Travel back to the 18th century with The Age of Enlightenment tour, which explores the works from one of history's most transformative periods. The tour highlights the Gallery’s collection of Neoclassical and Romantic paintings, offering insights into the ideas of beauty, morality, and society that influenced artists during that era. It's a thought-provoking examination of how art can reflect and affect the intellectual currents of an age.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

9. 9. Discovering the Baroque

   The National Gallery's Discovering the Baroque tour takes visitors on an exploration of dramatic and emotive Baroque art. Featuring the works of Caravaggio, Rubens, and Velázquez, the tour examines the characteristic elements of Baroque painting, including the use of light and shadow, rich colors, and powerful themes of religion and mythology. Attendees will gain insights into the social and political factors that influenced Baroque artists, and the lasting legacy of the Baroque style in European art.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free

10. 10. Early Renaissance Highlights

    The Early Renaissance Highlights tour offers a closer look at the work of pioneering artists who laid the foundation for the Renaissance movement. Visitors will witness the transition from medieval to Renaissance art, marked by a renewed interest in humanism, the natural world, and classical antiquity. The tour discusses the innovative techniques and symbolic motifs used by artists such as Giotto, Masaccio, and Botticelli, and how these early masters influenced generations of artists that followed. It's an inspiring journey through the roots of Renaissance art.

    Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free