While dining and drinking in London can be pricier compared to some other European cities, the city generously offers a wealth of art experiences at no cost. Indeed, budget-conscious travelers can enjoy a feast of free art in London, indulging their cultural appetites without spending a penny.
From prominent galleries to emerging artistic initiatives, many venues across the capital have eliminated entry fees. Even if you’re opting for budget-friendly meals, you can still delve into the world of high-end art. Here’s a selection of our favorite free art museums in London.
London’s Free National Museums
All of London’s national museums are free to enter. Whether you’re looking for a quick cultural escape during a rain shower or planning to spend a full day exploring some of the most beloved artworks in the world, you won’t need to spend anything. Just a heads up: while the permanent collections are always free, some temporary exhibitions may charge an entry fee and could require advance booking.
National Gallery
A great starting point is the National Gallery. Located in a stunning building overlooking Trafalgar Square (tube: Leicester Square or Charing Cross), this gallery boasts an extensive collection of over 2,300 Western European paintings, spanning from the 13th to the early 20th century. Here, you can admire masterpieces by iconic artists like Botticelli, Van Gogh, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Monet, Velazquez, and Goya. For additional enrichment, be sure to check the National Gallery’s schedule for upcoming free events.
National Portrait Gallery
Don’t forget to visit the National Portrait Gallery, just around the corner. This gallery features the largest collection of portraits in the world—from Tudor and Elizabethan times to contemporary works, including a portrait of Kate Middleton.
Tate Collections
No trip to London would be complete without exploring at least one of the renowned Tate collections. The Tate Britain, located in Millbank (tube: Pimlico or Westminster), celebrates British art with works ranging from the 1500s to present day. Look out for pieces by notable artists like Turner (who is also celebrated through the annual Turner Prize), William Blake, and contemporary works by Tracey Emin.
Across the river, the Tate Modern, housed in the striking former Bankside Power Station (tube: Southwark, Bankside or London Bridge), focuses on an impressive array of contemporary art, showcasing both British and international works from the 1900s to today.
Saatchi Gallery
If you’re in the mood for something unconventional, visit the Saatchi Gallery. This venue, located on King’s Road in the affluent Chelsea neighborhood (tube: Sloane Square), features innovative and unseen contemporary art—no admission fee required. While the ground-floor exhibitions are typically free, some may require advance booking and an entry fee.
Serpentine Gallery
Enhance your visit to Hyde Park with a stop at the elegant Serpentine Galleries in Kensington Gardens (tube: Lancaster Gate, South Kensington or Knightsbridge). These galleries not only showcase modern and contemporary art but also display astonishing architectural feats each summer when a renowned architect designs the Serpentine Pavilion.
Exploring Beyond Traditional Galleries
The artistic experience in London transcends formal galleries and museums. If your stay aligns with the first Thursday of the month, make it a point to enjoy the Whitechapel Gallery’s First Thursdays. This special event allows East London galleries and museums to stay open until 9 p.m., featuring unique exhibitions, talks, and activities. Consider joining a walking tour led by an artist or curator or hopping on the free art bus to visit some of the top exhibitions.
Additionally, you can support emerging artists by attending degree shows at University College London’s Slade School of Fine Art, one of the world’s most prestigious art schools. During May and June each year, they open their doors for undergraduate and postgraduate degree exhibitions. Entry is free, and it’s a fantastic opportunity—you might just encounter a future star!
