National Portrait Gallery

A World-Class Portrait Collection Spanning Centuries

The National Portrait Gallery holds the most extensive collection of portraits in the world, with over 220,000 works ranging from the 8th century to contemporary times. The collection encompasses paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings and prints—each carefully selected to tell the stories of individuals who have shaped British history, culture and society. From global icons and national treasures to local champions and unsung heroes, the gallery presents a comprehensive visual narrative of human achievement and identity across more than a millennium.

A Reimagined Space: The 2023 Transformation

Following a major redevelopment project completed in June 2023, the National Portrait Gallery reopened with significant enhancements that transformed the visitor experience. The renovation created approximately 20% additional gallery space, allowing for a more generous display of the collection. A new main entrance on Ross Place replaced the original St Martin's Place entrance, which now serves as the exit. The newly uncovered Victorian terrazzo floor welcomes visitors as they enter, setting an elegant tone for exploration. The East Wing opened as part of this transformation, introducing fresh perspectives on portraiture and expanding exhibition possibilities.

Intimate Galleries Arranged Chronologically

The gallery's layout encourages contemplation rather than rushing. Portraits are arranged chronologically across multiple floors, beginning with the Tudor collection on Floor 3 and progressing through subsequent periods to the newest contemporary additions on Floor 0. Each floor features a simple single hallway that circles around, revealing three rows of portraits as visitors make their way through. This thoughtful design prevents the overwhelming sensation often experienced in larger museums, allowing visitors to pause, observe fine details and genuinely connect with each portrait. The intimate scale of each gallery creates space for reflection without the pressure of crowds pushing forward.

Dining and Social Spaces

The reimagined gallery now offers diverse options for refreshment and socialising. Larry's bar provides a relaxed setting for drinks, while the café serves light refreshments including cakes and beverages. The restaurant offers more substantial dining options, with service available throughout extended hours. These spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the visitor experience, allowing guests to pause their exploration and enjoy the gallery's hospitality.

Comprehensive Accessibility and Support Services

The National Portrait Gallery prioritises accessibility for all visitors. Both main entrances feature step-free access, and all gallery levels are connected by lifts located in multiple areas throughout the building. Wheelchairs and walkers are available to borrow, and the gallery offers a Changing Places facility with extra space and a hoist on Floor minus two. Fixed seating is distributed across all four floors, with portable folding stools also available. The Information Desk on Floor 0 provides magnifying glasses, child and adult ear defenders, large print maps, floor plans, and tactile or braille maps. The gallery offers specialised accessible events including deaf-led British Sign Language tours and descriptive tours for blind or partially sighted visitors.

Engaging Programs and Free Daily Tours

The gallery's Visitor Experience team delivers free daily talks and tours. Highlights tours lasting approximately 45 minutes take place at noon and 3 pm, providing curated overviews of significant works. Portrait of the Day talks, lasting about 30 minutes, occur at 11 am and 2 pm, focusing on individual portraits in depth. The Meet the Portraits audio tour, available on the Bloomberg Connects app, runs for 60 minutes and is offered in multiple languages including English with captions, French, Spanish, German, Italian and British Sign Language. An audio-described version and tactile map are available at the Information Desk.