About National Portrait Gallery
Discover centuries of British history through portraits of famous figures at this world-renowned gallery near Trafalgar Square. Family-friendly with dining facilities, accessible amenities and baby-changing rooms.
What's nearby
- Trafalgar Square 150m away
- Leicester Square 150m away
- Wyndham's Theatre 200m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
- ✓Accessible seating
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
The National Portrait Gallery is a truly captivating place that brings British history and culture to life through the faces and stories of remarkable individuals. From artists and monarchs to scientists, musicians, and modern-day icons, every portrait offers a fascinating glimpse into the people who have shaped Britain and the world. The gallery itself is beautifully designed, combining historic charm with modern elegance following its recent refurbishment. The thoughtfully curated exhibitions make it easy to explore centuries of history in an engaging and accessible way. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about the lives behind the portraits, there's something to inspire every visitor. One of the highlights of visiting the National Portrait Gallery is the incredible diversity of its collection. Seeing famous figures represented through different artistic styles and periods creates a unique experience that is both educational and deeply moving. The accompanying information provides valuable context, helping visitors connect with the stories and achievements of the individuals on display. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, making it the perfect place to spend a few leisurely hours. Its central London location, just moments from Trafalgar Square, makes it an ideal addition to any day of sightseeing. The gallery's café and gift shop are also well worth a visit, offering a lovely place to relax after exploring the exhibits. The National Portrait Gallery is more than just an art museum—it's a celebration of people, history, and creativity. Thought-provoking, beautifully presented, and completely enriching, it is a cultural treasure that deserves to be experienced time and time again.
· via Google
Wonderful gallery. Really versatile and welcoming. I have to say it was quite noisy throughout. A lot of chatter and a lot of visitors so, should I return, I would try and find a quieter time. The art work is beautiful and there is so much to see. Staff were very friendly too!! I loved the detail and descriptions along with the portraits, it really makes the difference to me and adds to the experience. I'd defintiely visit again.
· via Google
A picture they say tells a thousand stories. Nothing captures more succinctly the experience of vising the National Potrait Gallery better than this expression. Each floor and pieces take you on a history tour. From the Tudors to modern day royal family and famous personalities across the British Isle. Each floor tells a story in time and the rooms are adorned with a cross section pf ornate pictures to statues and even death mask. Pictures, paintings, drawings, and digital representations, the NPG has it all. The gallery is conspicuous although could easily be confused for the National Gallery which occupies the other side of the building facing Trafalgar square. The ambience, lighting and lay out all work well and the stairs are easy to climb. There are functional lifts and a cafe at the ground floor. I think level - 2. Overall, a great place to learn and another infinity stone of the countless museums in and around London. P.S admission is mostly free except to the Monroe exhibition.
· via Google
National Portrait Gallery is a great place to spend hours, houses a great collection of portraits; all the way from Tudor times up to contemporary public figures. Staff is knowledgeable and helpful, the gallery has several facilities: cafes and restrooms. Also, in celebration of the Hollywood star’s 100th birthday and in association with the Marilyn Monroe estate, Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait explores the life, career and legacy of Marilyn Monroe through portraits created by some of the greatest photographers and artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Bringing together works by Andy Warhol, Pauline Boty, Marlene Dumas, James Gill, Rosalyn Drexler and Audrey Flack, alongside over 20 era-defining photographers, including Cecil Beaton, Philippe Halsman, Bernard of Hollywood, André de Dienes, Eve Arnold, Inge Morath, Alfred Eisenstaedt, Milton Greene, Sam Shaw, Richard Avedon and George Barris, the exhibition foregrounds Monroe’s collaborative approach to image making and her creative agency. The exhibition also includes personal belongings such as scripts and clothes to enrich understanding of the woman behind the image. Like most public museums, admissions is free of charge. Definitely worth a visit.
· via Google
People say this gallery offers an amazing collection of historical and contemporary portraits, with many highlighting the fascinating Tudor section. Visitors also appreciate the free entry to the main collection and the engaging, knowledgeable staff. They also mention the clean facilities, including well-maintained restrooms and pleasant cafes.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Saint Martin's Place, London, WC2H 0HE Get directions
- Category
- Museums & Galleries
- Guest rating
- 4.7 / 5 (15,795 reviews)
- Suitable for
- Ages 4+
- Setting
- Indoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- London