National Portrait Gallery, London
Discover Britain’s history through faces at the National Portrait Gallery, home to over 220,000 portraits spanning centuries of cultural heritage.
The National Portrait Gallery in London houses the world's most extensive collection of portraits, showcasing over 220,000 works from the 8th century to the present day. Located on St. Martin's Place, it offers free admission to its permanent collection, with some special exhibitions requiring tickets. Visitors can explore portraits of famous British figures and cultural icons across multiple floors arranged chronologically, enhanced by free daily tours and digital guides.
A brief summary to National Portrait Gallery
- St. Martin's Pl, London, WC2H 0HE, GB
- +442073060055
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-9 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-9 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Fridays or Saturdays to enjoy extended opening hours until 9pm.
- Join free daily Highlights tours at 12:00 or 15:00 to gain deeper insights into key portraits.
- Download the Gallery’s free digital guide app for multilingual audio tours and accessibility features.
- Use the main entrance on Ross Place for step-free access and easier wheelchair navigation.
- Plan at least 2 hours to explore the full collection from Tudors to contemporary portraits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Leicester Square station (Northern and Piccadilly lines), approximately a 5-minute walk from the Gallery. Note that this station does not have lift access, so plan accordingly.
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Train
Charing Cross railway station is about 320 meters from the Gallery, providing convenient access for regional and national rail travelers.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the area around St. Martin’s Place, with stops near Trafalgar Square, offering frequent service throughout the day.
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Taxi / Car
Taxis and private cars can drop off passengers on the corner of Orange Street and Charing Cross Road, close to the main entrance on Ross Place, which has step-free access. Parking nearby is limited and mostly metered.
National Portrait Gallery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Low-Visibility Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Portrait Gallery
A Treasury of British Faces Through Time
The National Portrait Gallery holds the world’s most comprehensive collection of portraits, featuring more than 220,000 paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, and prints. Its exhibits span over a millennium, from the 8th century to contemporary times, offering a vivid visual history of Britain’s influential figures—from monarchs and political leaders to artists, scientists, and cultural icons. The portraits are thoughtfully arranged in chronological order, beginning with the Tudors on the upper floors and culminating with modern works on the ground floor, allowing visitors to journey through British history via its people.Architectural and Spatial Experience
Situated on St. Martin’s Place in central London, the Gallery’s building combines grandeur with an intimate atmosphere. The layout consists of multiple floors with single hallways encircling the space, each lined with three rows of portraits. This design encourages a calm, unhurried exploration, enabling visitors to absorb the details and stories behind each portrait without feeling overwhelmed. Recent refurbishments have expanded gallery space by about 20%, revealing features such as a Victorian terrazzo floor and new dedicated galleries like “History Makers Now,” which highlights contemporary additions to the collection.Engaging Visitor Programs and Accessibility
The Gallery offers a rich program of free daily talks and tours, including Highlights tours at noon and 3 pm and Portrait of the Day talks at 11 am and 2 pm. These sessions deepen understanding of select works and their historical contexts. For self-guided exploration, a free digital guide app provides multilingual audio tours and an audio-described version for accessibility. The building is fully wheelchair accessible with step-free entrances, lifts, and staff trained to assist all visitors. Magnifying glasses and tactile maps are available to enhance the experience for those with visual impairments.Dining, Shopping, and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy several dining options within the Gallery, including The Portrait Restaurant on Level 4, Audrey Green café at street level, and Larry's dining and bar in the basement. Food and drink are not permitted inside the galleries themselves. Two exhibition shops offer unique merchandise inspired by the collection, including art prints and books. Facilities include free WiFi, cloakrooms, restrooms, and seating areas, ensuring a comfortable visit.Opening Hours and Admission
The Gallery is open daily from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm, extending to 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Admission to the permanent collection is free, though special exhibitions may require tickets. The Gallery closes on December 24–26 annually. Visitors are advised that the building begins closing 10 minutes before the stated closing time. Photography for personal use is allowed in the main galleries.Location and Surroundings
Located a short walk from major London landmarks such as Trafalgar Square and Charing Cross station, the National Portrait Gallery is easily accessible via multiple Tube stations including Leicester Square and Embankment. Its central location places it within a vibrant cultural district, making it an ideal stop for art lovers and history enthusiasts exploring London’s rich heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Path
0.1 km
Georgian masterpiece and spiritual anchor of Trafalgar Square, influencing church architecture worldwide.
Nelson's Column
0.2 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Nelson’s naval triumph, standing proudly at the heart of London’s historic Trafalgar Square.
Obelisk Charles James Napier
0.2 km
A contested monument to a complex military figure in London's most iconic public square.
Mary Poppins Statue
0.2 km
Where cinema's most elegant nanny takes flight in the heart of London's film district.
Eleanor Cross
0.2 km
A Victorian Gothic Revival monument marking the final resting place of Queen Eleanor’s funeral procession, blending medieval legacy with London’s historic heart.
Agatha Christie memorial
0.3 km
A captivating bronze tribute to Agatha Christie, celebrating her literary genius and theatrical legacy in London's vibrant theatre district.
Café de Paris
0.3 km
Legendary West End cabaret where royalty danced, stars performed, and history was made—now closed after 96 years.
Admiralty Arch
0.3 km
A majestic Edwardian gateway linking Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, embodying Britain's royal heritage and naval history.
Chinatown Gate
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of London's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a cultural gem filled with culinary delights and rich heritage.
16-18 Whitehall
0.3 km
Explore 16-18 Whitehall, the historic site of England’s grandest royal palace and home to the stunning Banqueting House, a masterpiece of classical architecture.
Royal Marines Memorial
0.3 km
A stirring bronze tribute on The Mall honoring Royal Marines’ sacrifice in China and South Africa, blending art and history in London’s ceremonial heart.
Old Admiralty Building
0.3 km
Historic heart of Britain’s naval command, blending grand architecture with pivotal moments in London’s maritime legacy.
Captain James Cook
0.4 km
Bronze tribute to the explorer who charted the Pacific and shaped the British Empire
Slingsby Place
0.4 km
Explore Slingsby Place, a serene scenic point in London, offering lush greenery and stunning architecture perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.
St Paul’s Church Covent Garden
0.4 km
Historic neo-classical church in Covent Garden, famed as the Actors’ Church with deep theatrical roots and an iconic classical portico.
Unmissable attractions to see
The National Gallery
0.1 km
Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of Western European paintings, this grand London gallery offers free access to masterpieces from the 13th to the early 20th century.
Edith Cavell Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn tribute in central London honoring Edith Cavell’s courage, compassion, and sacrifice during World War I.
Solve A Mystery - London (Pick-Up Point)
0.1 km
Unravel a historic murder mystery through iconic London streets in this immersive self-guided detective adventure.
Garrick Theatre
0.1 km
Experience timeless West End theatre in the intimate, historic Garrick Theatre, where classic charm meets captivating performances.
London Coliseum
0.1 km
Experience grand Edwardian theatre and world-class opera and ballet at the iconic London Coliseum in the heart of London’s West End.
The Duke of York's Theatre
0.1 km
Historic West End theatre on St Martin's Lane, home to iconic productions and timeless British theatrical heritage.
St Martin-in-the-Fields
0.1 km
An iconic neoclassical church at Trafalgar Square blending rich history, architectural brilliance, and vibrant cultural life in central London.
London by Night Tours
0.1 km
Discover London’s iconic landmarks aglow with night lights on an engaging open-top bus tour departing from historic Trafalgar Square.
5 Trafalgar Sq
0.1 km
London’s iconic Trafalgar Square: a historic public plaza celebrating naval triumphs and vibrant civic life in the city’s heart.
The Fourth Plinth
0.1 km
A historic plinth transformed into a world-famous stage for cutting-edge contemporary art in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square.
ODEON Luxe Leicester Square
0.1 km
Experience London’s iconic Art Deco cinema with luxury recliners and the UK’s first Dolby Cinema screen in the heart of Leicester Square.
Cecil Court
0.1 km
Discover Cecil Court, a historic London street famed for its Victorian charm, rare bookshops, early cinema heritage, and a brief Mozart residency.
ODEON Luxe West End
0.2 km
Experience luxury cinema and vibrant West End culture at Odeon Luxe West End in the heart of Leicester Square.
Trafalgar Square
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Trafalgar Square, London's iconic public square and cultural hub.
Leicester Square
0.2 km
Leicester Square pulses at the heart of London’s West End, a vibrant hub of cinema, theatre, and lively cultural heritage.
Essential places to dine
J Sheekey
0.2 km
Classic British seafood excellence in Covent Garden’s elegant, theatre-adjacent dining gem.
New Loon Fung Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cantonese dim sum and classic Chinese dishes in one of Chinatown’s largest, long-standing restaurants on bustling Gerrard Street.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
0.3 km
Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Clos Maggiore
0.3 km
Experience London’s most romantic French restaurant with enchanting blossom-filled conservatory and an award-winning wine cellar in Covent Garden.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.4 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Evelyn's Table
0.4 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.4 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Meet Fresh
0.4 km
Authentic Taiwanese desserts in lively Soho, offering generous portions of mochi, taro balls, and refreshing fruit teas in a bustling urban setting.
Rules
0.4 km
London’s oldest restaurant since 1798, Rules serves timeless British classics in an elegant, historic Covent Garden setting.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.4 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
The Northall
0.4 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
0.4 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Gauthier Soho
0.4 km
Innovative vegan French fine dining in a stylish Soho townhouse, blending tradition with plant-based creativity.
Punch & Judy
0.4 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alice Through The Looking Glass
0.2 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Unique Britain
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artistic keepsakes in the heart of London’s lively West End on historic Cranbourn Street.
Cool Britania
0.2 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Crest of London Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
St Martin's Courtyard
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and relaxation at St Martin's Courtyard in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Floral Street
0.3 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
House of Spells
0.3 km
Step into a world of magic and fandom at House of Spells, London’s enchanting emporium for Harry Potter and fantasy collectibles.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Henry Pordes Books Ltd
0.4 km
London's legendary independent rare bookshop preserving literary treasures on historic Charing Cross Road.
Charing Cross Rd
0.4 km
Charing Cross Road: London’s iconic street for book lovers, theatres, and vibrant urban culture in the heart of the West End.
Gifts of London
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Lillywhites
0.4 km
London's iconic sports megastore at Piccadilly Circus—where athletic excellence meets retail tradition.
The Moomin Shop London
0.4 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
La Boutik
0.5 km
Soho's chic haven for European designer imports on buzzing Dean Street—unique fashion finds in London's creative epicenter.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.5 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.1 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Harp, Covent Garden
0.2 km
A historic Covent Garden pub famed for award-winning ales, traditional ciders, and a timeless, welcoming atmosphere.
Blind Spot London
0.2 km
Discover a secretive speakeasy with globally inspired cocktails and intimate ambiance tucked inside St Martin’s Lane Hotel, Covent Garden.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.2 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Mr Fogg's Tavern
0.2 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired tavern in Covent Garden, where inventive cocktails meet hearty British fare in an eclectic and lively setting.
The Alchemist St Martin's Lane
0.2 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and vibrant dining in the heart of Covent Garden’s iconic theatre district.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.3 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Ku Bar
0.3 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
Covent Garden Social Club
0.3 km
Dive into Covent Garden's dual-world party den: prohibition cocktails below, live piano magic above—West End's ultimate nightlife hideaway for cocktails, cabaret, and endless sing-alongs. (162 characters)
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.3 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.3 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Old Shades
0.3 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.3 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Mrs Riot
0.4 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Gordon's Wine Bar
0.4 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Penthouse London
0.2 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
TSQ Club
0.3 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.3 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Tiger Tiger London
0.3 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Luxe Club
0.3 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Heaven
0.3 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
0.4 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.5 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.5 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Sophisticats Soho
0.5 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.5 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
0.5 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Club49Soho
0.5 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
The Roxy
0.6 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
La Capannina Club
0.6 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly