National Portrait Gallery, London
Explore the world’s largest portrait collection showcasing British history and culture in a welcoming, accessible London landmark.
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 contemporary times. Located on St. Martin's Place, this free-to-enter gallery offers visitors a chronological journey through British history and culture, featuring paintings, sculptures, photographs, and prints of iconic figures. With accessible facilities, daily free tours, and a vibrant atmosphere, it is a must-visit cultural landmark in central London.
A brief summary to National Portrait Gallery
- St. Martin's Pl, London, WC2H 0HE, GB
- +442073060055
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 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
- Start your visit on the third floor to follow the chronological display from Tudor portraits down to contemporary works.
- Join one of the free daily guided tours or talks to gain deeper insights into the collection.
- Use the free digital guide app for an enhanced audio tour experience available in multiple languages.
- Visit the café or bar for refreshments and explore the gallery shops for unique gifts inspired by the portraits.
- Take advantage of the gallery’s accessibility services, including step-free access, wheelchairs, and tactile maps.
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, approximately a 7-10 minute walk to the gallery. The station is served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines. The walk is flat and accessible, with step-free exits available at Leicester Square.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Trafalgar Square and Charing Cross, including routes 6, 9, 15, 23, and 139. From these stops, expect a 5-10 minute walk to the gallery. Buses are wheelchair accessible and run frequently throughout the day.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can drop off passengers on Ross Place or nearby Orange Street, with easy step-free access to the main entrance. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 10 to 25 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares from £6 to £15.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in central London, the gallery is within walking distance from Covent Garden or Trafalgar Square, about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat, well-paved streets suitable for wheelchair users and strollers.
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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Portrait Gallery
A Vast Chronicle of British Faces
The National Portrait Gallery stands as a unique institution dedicated to the art of portraiture, boasting a collection exceeding 220,000 works. Spanning from the 8th century to the present day, the gallery captures the essence of British history through the visages of monarchs, artists, politicians, and cultural icons. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, and prints, each telling a story about the individual and the era they represent.Architectural and Spatial Experience
Situated on St. Martin's Place, the gallery is housed in a historic yet welcoming building with multiple floors arranged to guide visitors chronologically through the portraits. Starting on the third floor with Tudor-era works and descending to contemporary pieces on the ground floor, the layout encourages a reflective and intimate viewing experience. Recent renovations have expanded the space by about 20%, enhancing visitor flow and introducing new galleries such as the East Wing.Engaging Programs and Accessibility
The gallery offers a rich program of free daily talks and tours, including Highlights Tours and Portrait of the Day talks, providing deeper insights into the collection. Accessibility is a priority, with step-free entrances, lifts connecting all floors, and amenities such as wheelchairs, magnifying glasses, tactile maps, and audio-described tours. The gallery also hosts events tailored for diverse audiences, including BSL tours and sensory-friendly experiences.Visitor Amenities and Atmosphere
Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities including a café, bar, and restaurant offering various dining options, as well as two exhibition shops featuring unique merchandise inspired by the collection. The atmosphere balances intimacy with grandeur, allowing visitors to pause and truly absorb the portraits without feeling rushed. The gallery’s central location places it amidst vibrant cultural and historic surroundings.Admission and Practical Information
Admission to the National Portrait Gallery is free, though some special exhibitions require paid tickets with concessions available for students, seniors, and disabled visitors. The gallery is open daily from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, extending to 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Advanced booking is recommended for popular exhibitions. The main entrance, recommended for wheelchair users, is on Ross Place, with a secondary entrance for groups on St. Martin’s Place.Legacy and Cultural Significance
As a national museum, the gallery plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating British cultural heritage through portraiture. It serves as a place of education, inspiration, and reflection, connecting visitors with the stories of individuals who have shaped the nation’s identity. The gallery’s ongoing acquisitions and exhibitions ensure it remains a dynamic and evolving space for art and history enthusiasts alike.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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
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