The National Portrait Gallery (NPG) is an art gallery in London housing a collection of portraits of historically important and famous British people. It was arguably the first national public gallery dedicated to portraits in the world when it opened in 1856. The gallery moved in 1896 to its current site at St Martin's Place, off Trafalgar Square, and adjoining the National Gallery. It has been expanded twice since then. The National Portrait Gallery also has regional outposts at Beningbrough Hall in Yorkshire and Montacute House in Somerset. It is unconnected to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh, with which its remit overlaps. The gallery is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
The gallery houses portraits of historically important and famous British people, selected on the basis of the significance of the sitter, not that of the artist. The collection includes photographs and caricatures as well as paintings, drawings and sculpture. One of its best-known images is the Chandos portrait, the most famous portrait of William Shakespeare although there is some uncertainty about whether the painting actually is of the playwright.
Monday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Thursday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Friday | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
Saturday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Sunday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Alan Bailey | Feb 24, 2018
A British museum at its best. You could come here regularly and always find new stuff to explore. Best to decide on a couple of things and just stick to them. Temporary exhibitions are expensive but usually very imaginatively done. Good choices inside the museum for refreshments and meals. If you are thinking of going regularly then think about becoming a member; there are lots of benefits.
Doug Havnaer | Feb 24, 2018
A fascinating introduction to the personages of British history as depicted by portrait artists through the centuries. The art enthusiast and the student of history will both find a lot to love here. The top floor restaurant features a wall of windows looking out to Trafalgar Square. The Late Shifts on Thursday and Friday nights include a bar and a D.J. in the lobby, a welcoming place to get out of the weather on cold, rainy evenings.
Anjana Silva | Jan 14, 2018
One of the best galleries I have ever been in my life. Its spectacular and lots of portraits and statues to be witnessed. The staff is very friendly and looks after the gallery very nicely. And its free admission. I recommend this gallery to anyone who wants to expand their knowledge about portraits and arts. Thanks.
Roberta Migliore | Jan 9, 2018
I have lived in this city since many years, I am proper local and I will never be sick of visiting all over again galleries like this one. When you visit the National Gallery do not forget to stop here to! Last time I have visit again it was this week. The permanent exhibition and the current Cezanne one are worthy. I would not say the same fort the current photographic one. If it would be free why not, but pay for it compared with other truly impressive was not worthy, even if all the photographers exposed are talented.
Mandana Hendessi | Mar 1, 2018
Fantastic! Loved the exhibition of women pioneers - suffragettes. The shop has a range of gorgeous cards, prints and other goodies. The cafe is cosy and they serve excellent coffees and a selection of gorgeous cakes. Victoria Sponge and Carrot Cake enthusiastically recommended!
Paul Whiting | Apr 6, 2018
Really nice gallery especially if you like history as you can see portraits of some of the people you've read about. The fact that it's free makes it even better. As an actor, if also recommend it as a place to go to research a character, although saying that, most of the eighteenth and nineteenth century portraits just look like Alec Guinness... As do the portraits of the men The cafe is also good
Bob Studholme | Mar 12, 2018
Our first visit. Impressive display of those people who have contributed to our society over a long period of time. Interesting and not always wonderful paintings. We were impressed by the information regarding the sitters in the portraits and the additional technical equipment to lock one into the time-limit of events in which those people played their part. We'll be back.
Kevin Arope | Mar 22, 2018
Love I only visited because I was meeting some friends and they were running very late. I stepped and and lost myself in the art. I enjoyed it so much that I ended up being late meeting my friends! There are a number of floors representing different eras plus a cafe for refreshments. Only downside is that they need a clear guide to walk otherwise you end up missing rooms.
Alison Smith | Apr 18, 2018
My favourite museum in London! They have a fabulous permanent collection and their special exhibitions are always outstanding. Centrally located in Trafalgar Square, it is very easy to find. The permanent exhibitions are free, and it would be a good idea to book in advance for the temporary ones as it can get very busy. There are lockers and a cloakroom if you have things with you that you don't want to carry around, plus a gift shop, bookshop & restaurant. The staff are knowledgeable & friendly and often there are great audio guides, podcasts or leaflets to tell you more about the exhibits. Can't recommend this place enough!
Stuart Johnston | May 4, 2018
The previous decor has gone temporarily. Gone are the vast array of portraits of all and sundry. Small individual exhibits are now in place. It has lost its charm and old style familiarity. Perhaps this is the way things are generally going. The Bobby Moore photographs however were wonderful. Some candid and unposed pictures of a period of innocence now gone, and of a genuine human being and.sportsman.
Ulimmeh-Hannibal Ezekiel | Apr 27, 2018
An excellent museum to visit. Each portrait sends you back in time. I really like the commentary behind each of these portraits. There is a mixture of both modern and old art here. Be sure to visit the National Portrait Gallery. Also, as with all public museums in London, it is free.
ImNotYourBroom | Apr 29, 2018
This gallery offers a wide range of historically significant portraits from a wide range of historical periods. I came here for exam revision and was not disappointed. The wheelchair access does seem to be lacking and there are restrictions on flash photography to preserve the paintings. The toilet facilities are what lets this place down- they are perfectly clean and are maintained at regular intervals, but there are only three cubicles in the male washroom ( I assume there are more in the female one but I didn't have anyone on hand to check for me). As a result of this, there can be lengthy queues which may cause some discomfort. The café/restaurant is of premium quality and is advertised as a place to eat even for people who aren't visiting the gallery, so you won't need to search for another place to eat if you're hungry.
Chester Wilson | Jul 5, 2018
A most enjoyable and educational experience viewing the portraits and other pictures, with the additional informational texts. There is ease of access provided by ramps, stairs and lift. A cloakroom is available for storage of larger personal items at a reasonable charge, while one visits the gallery. Entry is free but a donation is appreciated. The gallery is easy to negotiate and a map of it is available for £1.00. The pictures are well displayed with informational cards and attendants are around. It is very helpful to have this resource freely available and to see school groups utilising it.
D BEDUTCH | Aug 6, 2018
Amazing art on display. Not too formal feel and didn't get the feeling that I was out of place (I am no art expert!) Information about artists/subjects was helpful. Gallery was set out in a logical manner and you can't help but get drawn in. We only intended to look at the Tudors and spent 2 hours there!
Judith Lappin | May 24, 2018
I like this gallery. An excellent choice of paintings old and new with some photo displays thrown in. About 8 photos of Bobby Moore in one section. Lovely painting of Lady Diana Spencer when engaged but not yet married to Prince Charles. One of William and Harry not so good of William, better of Harry. Great painting of Elton John, small but perfect. Well worth a visit.
Kai Wright | Aug 11, 2018
This gallery has lots of really beautiful art, I could easily spend a day in here with the amazing atmosphere. I really liked the varied styles and time periods of the art, as well as being able to see some famous pieces in person. There are some great restaurants around, so it's ideal for longer visits.
Peter Clasby | Aug 9, 2018
An institution that always makes me happy to visit. A mixture of its world class free permanent collection, smaller free tempoary exhibitions and larger paid for ones. There is a good sized cloak room and friendly knowledgeable staff.
Wander is a travel search engine that allows you to find the perfect travel destination that fits your budget and preferences.
Get compensated for late flights
The Ultimate Long Haul Flight Guide
Winter Wonderland: Top Destinations for Winter 2018
The Ultimate Travel Checklist!
What is it about Inspirational Travel Quotes?
Top Destinations for a Romantic Getaway