10 Best Art Exhibitions in London

Indulge in London’s vibrant art scene—an absolute must for any cultured visitor.

From Abstract Expressionism and Surrealist masterpieces to boundary-pushing contemporary installations, London’s illustrious art museums and galleries showcase unrivalled collections. The Tate Modern, National Portrait Gallery, Saatchi Gallery, and many more offer immersive experiences, each with its own artistic narrative and historic resonance. Whether you’re seeking iconic paintings, innovative sculpture, photography, or dynamic art events, London’s creative landscape delivers it all. Explore both celebrated institutions and hidden gems for a curated journey through the capital’s rich tapestry of art. Most major galleries offer complimentary access to their permanent collections, with special exhibitions providing exceptional value for art lovers.

Discover our expertly curated list of the ten best art exhibitions to experience in London in 2025.

Tate Britain, the flagship of the Tate group, stands on the historic Millbank site overlooking the Thames. This distinguished gallery, dating back to 1897, is the oldest of the Tate’s four venues and remains a beacon of British artistic achievement. Previously known as the National Gallery of British Art, the space was renamed Tate Britain following the opening of Tate Modern, further refining its focus on British works.

The gallery’s collection spans the 1500s to the present, featuring luminaries such as Turner, Hockney, Millais, and Rossetti. Dedicated exhibition rooms spotlight contemporary icons like Tracey Emin and Sam Taylor-Johnson, while masterworks by Gainsborough, Freud, Blake, and Hirst underscore the breadth of the collection. Internationally acclaimed for its comprehensive scope, Tate Britain is a cornerstone for art connoisseurs. After touring, unwind with artisan coffee and pastries in the exclusive Member’s Room.

Address: Tate Britain, Millbank, London SW1P 4RG

Where to stay: Shangri-La at The Shard London

Tate Modern is the epicentre of modern and contemporary art in London, dramatically housed within the former Bankside Power Station along the South Bank. Its vast industrial space features over a century of creative innovation—from early 20th-century modernism to today’s cutting-edge installations. The museum’s dynamic collection includes works by international legends such as Pablo Picasso, Jenny Holzer, and Emily Kame Kngwarreye.

Highlights include British icons like Damien Hirst and Jackson Pollock, while the international rotation brings masterpieces from Rodin, Matisse, and many others. Temporary exhibitions consistently draw global acclaim, with past showcases featuring Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol. The Blavatnik Building’s panoramic terrace offers sweeping views of London’s skyline, while the monumental Turbine Hall hosts ambitious, interactive installations each autumn and winter—often sparking dialogue and setting the global art agenda.

Founded in 1856, the National Portrait Gallery stands as a living chronicle of Britain’s history through portraiture. Its mission is to celebrate individuals who have shaped the nation, with portraits arranged chronologically from the Tudor era to the present day, each contextually enriched by period artefacts.

Today, the gallery boasts over 215,000 works across diverse media—paintings, photographs, sculpture, even film—150,000 of which are accessible for public viewing. Encounter monarchs, writers, scientists, and cultural icons including Queen Elizabeth I and J.K. Rowling. Each portrait reveals captivating personal stories, offering insight into the characters who have left an indelible mark on British society.

Address: St. Martin's Place, London WC2H 0HE (fully reopened after extensive renovations)

Where to stay: Dukes

Located in the distinguished Burlington House on Piccadilly, the Royal Academy of Arts has been championing creativity since 1768. With over 250 years of heritage, this independent, artist-led institution is famed for its blockbuster exhibitions and the renowned annual Summer Exhibition—a highlight of London’s cultural calendar. The Academy is unique in being governed by eminent artists and architects, fostering a dynamic programme of exhibitions, debates, and educational initiatives.

Proceeds from visitors support the prestigious Royal Academy Schools and the institution’s historic collection. During summer, the tranquil garden at the Keeper’s House, designed by Tom Stuart-Smith, becomes a serene sanctuary filled with outdoor art. The on-site shops offer original works, design objects, and art supplies, while visitors can savour light fare at the Courtyard Café or indulge in authentic Spanish cuisine at José Pizarro’s celebrated restaurant in the Senate Room.

Address: Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD

Where to stay: Brown's

The Wallace Collection, nestled in the lavish Hertford House, is a showcase of Old Master paintings, ornate decorative art, and historic armour. This intimate gallery, once the home of Sir Richard and Lady Wallace, offers a refined atmosphere for art appreciation. The collection, assembled over generations and bequeathed to the nation in 1897, is particularly renowned for its French 18th-century works and exquisite objets d’art from the 15th to 19th centuries.

Visitors are greeted by sumptuous interiors—gilded salons and silk-lined walls—housing masterpieces such as Rubens’ Rainbow Landscape, Hals’ Laughing Cavalier, and Rembrandt’s Titus. The glass-roofed courtyard restaurant delivers French-inspired cuisine in an airy, elegant space surrounded by greenery and sculpture, making it one of London’s most coveted dining experiences for art lovers.

Address: The Wallace Collection, Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN

Where to stay: The Connaught

The Hayward Gallery, a landmark of Brutalist architecture, anchors the Southbank Centre’s vibrant arts campus. Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1968, the gallery is celebrated both for its striking design and its bold programming of contemporary art. Recent renovations have enhanced the space with abundant natural light and meticulously restored concrete finishes, creating an optimal environment for large-scale installations.

Hayward Gallery’s programme features major retrospectives, new commissions, and immersive exhibitions. Notable past shows include works by Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin, and Roy Lichtenstein. The gallery’s commitment to innovation extends to artist talks, workshops, and experimental design projects, maintaining its reputation as a hub for cutting-edge creative expression.

Address: Hayward Gallery, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, London SE1 8XX

Where to stay: The Goring

Since its founding in 1985 by Charles Saatchi, the Saatchi Gallery has been synonymous with discovering and championing emerging artists. Now a registered charity, the gallery’s mission is to make contemporary art accessible while fostering new talent. Its exhibitions frequently launch the careers of artists who later gain international recognition, solidifying the Saatchi Gallery’s reputation as a tastemaker in the global art world.

Located in the historic Duke of York’s HQ on King’s Road, the gallery offers three expansive floors and 21,000 square metres of exhibition space. Visitors can choose from guided or self-guided tours, engaging with ever-changing displays that reflect both local and international trends in contemporary creativity.

Address: Duke of York's HQ, King's Rd, London SW3 4RY

Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental, London

Established in 1891, the South London Gallery in Camberwell is a leading venue for contemporary art, live events, and community engagement. Following a transformative expansion by 6a architects, the gallery now features new exhibition spaces, a welcoming café, an artist’s residence, and a dedicated education centre. Its historic, naturally lit main hall is widely regarded as one of London’s premier spaces for viewing art.

The gallery’s rich permanent collection, comprising over 5,000 works, includes self-portraits, local history pieces, and a variety of media from painting to ceramics. The bookshop offers a curated selection of art books, design objects, and unique gifts for all ages, making it a favourite among both locals and visitors seeking authentic creative experiences.

Address: 65 Peckham Rd, London SE5 8UH

Where to stay: One Aldwych

Leighton House, set on the edge of Holland Park, was the home and studio of acclaimed Victorian painter Frederic, Lord Leighton. Constructed in the 1860s and continually expanded throughout Leighton’s life, the house reflects his cosmopolitan sensibilities and passion for the arts. Inspired by his travels to Turkey, Egypt, and Syria, Leighton adorned his residence with textiles, ceramics, and Middle Eastern artefacts, culminating in the spectacular Arab Hall—a highlight for any visitor.

Today, Leighton House stands as one of London’s true hidden gems, offering a rare glimpse into the lifestyle and creativity of one of Britain’s most influential artists. The home’s interiors, lush with period furnishings and global treasures, make it a unique destination for those seeking artistic immersion and historical charm.

Address: 2 Holland Park Rd, London W14 8LZ

Where to stay: Bulgari London

Situated in the picturesque Dulwich Village, Dulwich Picture Gallery holds the distinction of being the world’s first building designed specifically as an art gallery, opening in 1817. Conceived by renowned architect Sir John Soane, the gallery houses a remarkable collection of 17th- and 18th-century European Old Masters, many originally acquired for the Polish royal collection.

Within its atmospheric halls, visitors can admire works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Gainsborough, and Canaletto. Dulwich Picture Gallery also maintains a strong connection with contemporary art, regularly hosting temporary exhibitions and lectures. The on-site shop offers a curated range of books, homewares, and distinctive gifts, making it a delightful stop for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Address: Gallery Rd, London SE21 7AD

Where to stay: St. Ermin's 

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