The Wallace Collection: A Treasure of Art and History in Hertford House
Discover timeless masterpieces and exquisite decorative arts in the elegant Hertford House at the heart of London’s cultural scene.
The Wallace Collection, housed in the elegant Hertford House in London’s Manchester Square, is a free museum showcasing an exceptional array of 18th-century French furniture, Old Master paintings, exquisite porcelain, and historic arms and armour. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, the museum offers visitors a serene and richly decorated setting to explore masterpieces by Rubens, Rembrandt, Fragonard, and more, alongside a charming courtyard restaurant and accessible facilities.
A brief summary to The Wallace Collection
- Hertford House, Manchester Square, London, W1U 3BN, GB
- +442075639500
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
- Reserve a table in the courtyard restaurant in advance, especially on weekends, for a charming meal under the glass roof.
- Check for special exhibitions that may require a ticket and offer unique insights beyond the permanent collection.
- Use the free visitor lockers on the lower ground floor to store large bags, as these are not allowed in the galleries.
- Take advantage of the museum’s accessibility features including step-free access and free wheelchairs if needed.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Reach The Wallace Collection via London Underground by alighting at Bond Street station (Central and Jubilee lines) or Baker Street station (Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee, and Metropolitan lines). Both stations are approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk from the museum. Numerous London bus routes, including numbers 2, 10, 12, 13, 30, 74, 82, 94, 113, 137, and 274, stop nearby. Single journey fares typically range from £1.75 to £3.50 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off near Manchester Square. Depending on traffic, expect a journey time of 15 to 30 minutes from central London locations such as Piccadilly Circus. Prices vary but typically range from £10 to £25. Note that the museum is within the London Congestion Charge zone, which may add £15 during charging hours.
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Car and Parking
There is no on-site parking at the museum. Metered street parking is available around Manchester Square until 6:30 pm. Blue Badge holders can use designated bays nearby. Several larger public car parks are within walking distance but can be costly. Driving is generally discouraged due to congestion charges and limited parking.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the Wallace Collection is pleasant and accessible. The surrounding area features flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Walking times vary but expect about 10 to 20 minutes from Oxford Street or Marylebone stations.
The Wallace Collection location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Wallace Collection
A Historic Mansion Home to a World-Class Collection
The Wallace Collection is located in Hertford House, a grand 18th-century townhouse in Manchester Square, London. Originally built in 1776, the building has served various roles, including housing the Spanish and French embassies before its transformation into a public museum in 1900. The house itself is a marvel, with silk-lined walls, elegant mahogany doors, and creaky sprung floors, perfectly complementing the art it holds. The setting evokes the grandeur of aristocratic London life, providing a fitting backdrop for the collection amassed by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace.Masterpieces of European Art and Decorative Objects
The collection is renowned for its breadth and quality, featuring over 5,500 objects displayed across 28 richly decorated rooms. Visitors encounter iconic paintings by Titian, Velázquez, Rubens, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Reynolds, and Frans Hals, including the famous "Laughing Cavalier" and Fragonard’s "The Swing." Beyond paintings, the museum boasts the finest collection of 18th-century French furniture, particularly pieces by André Charles Boulle, with intricate marquetry and gilding. The porcelain collection, especially Sèvres pieces, is considered among the best in the world. The museum also houses a fascinating arms and armour gallery, showcasing European and Eastern pieces such as a knight’s helmet from Agincourt and a jeweled dagger made for a Mughal prince.Visitor Experience and Facilities
The Wallace Collection offers a calm and intimate atmosphere, ideal for leisurely exploration. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with free entry to the permanent collection. Some special exhibitions require a ticket. Visitors can enjoy dining at the elegant courtyard restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea in a glass-roofed, light-filled space. A casual café and a well-stocked gift shop are also available. The museum is fully accessible, featuring step-free entrances, lifts, free wheelchairs, and accessible routes throughout. Visitor lockers are free, and photography without flash is permitted.Access and Location in Central London
Situated just a short walk from Oxford Street and Baker Street, the Wallace Collection is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest Tube stations are Bond Street and Baker Street, served by multiple lines. Numerous London buses stop nearby. While there is no on-site parking, Blue Badge parking bays are available on surrounding streets. The museum is within the London Congestion Charge zone, so driving is generally discouraged. The location in the Marylebone area places it near other cultural attractions and shops, making it a perfect stop for art lovers exploring central London.Curatorial Approach and Changing Exhibitions
The Wallace Collection’s displays are thoughtfully arranged to highlight the artistic and historical significance of each piece, with a focus on 16th to 18th-century European art and decorative arts. The collection is dynamic, with rotating exhibits and special exhibitions held in a modern lower-ground gallery space. This ensures that repeat visits offer fresh experiences. The museum also emphasizes education and accessibility, providing maps, sensory guides, and friendly staff to enhance visitor engagement.Preservation and Visitor Etiquette
As a national museum, the Wallace Collection places great importance on preserving its treasures. Visitors are requested not to touch objects or bring large bags, with free lockers provided for personal items. Smoking and vaping are prohibited throughout the premises. The museum is monitored by CCTV for security, and staff are trained to assist visitors and ensure a respectful environment. These measures help maintain the collection’s integrity and provide a safe, enjoyable experience for all.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Soho
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Essential places to dine
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NOPI
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
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
