Discover The National Gallery | A Visitor's Introduction to The National Gallery

Why Visit the National Gallery?

The National Gallery presents a comprehensive overview of Western European art, making it an essential destination for art lovers, students, and casual visitors alike. The museum’s collection includes some of the most famous paintings in the world, offering visitors the chance to see masterpieces up close. From Italian Renaissance works to Dutch Baroque masterpieces and French Impressionist paintings, the gallery covers a wide array of styles and periods.

One of the best things about the National Gallery is that admission is free, making world-class art accessible to everyone. The museum also offers an extensive programme of events, tours, and lectures, providing a deeper understanding of the artworks and their cultural contexts.

National Gallery Highlights

1. Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Virgin of the Rocks": One of two versions of this iconic painting, "The Virgin of the Rocks" by Leonardo da Vinci is a stunning example of Renaissance art. It showcases Leonardo's skill in composition and his use of light and shadow to create depth. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the figures and the landscape, which exemplify Leonardo’s groundbreaking techniques.

2. Vincent van Gogh’s "Sunflowers": Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" is one of the most famous and beloved works in the National Gallery’s collection. Painted in 1888, the bright yellow hues and expressive brushstrokes are quintessential elements of Van Gogh’s style. This painting is part of a series of sunflower-themed works that Van Gogh created to decorate his house in Arles, France, in preparation for the arrival of fellow artist Paul Gauguin.

3. Jan van Eyck’s "The Arnolfini Portrait": This exquisite 15th-century painting by Jan van Eyck is a masterpiece of detail and symbolism. It depicts the wealthy merchant Giovanni di Nicolao di Arnolfini and his wife in their home. The painting is renowned for its remarkable realism, intricate use of light, and symbolic elements, such as the mirror in the background, which reflects the artist’s skill in perspective.

4. Diego Velázquez’s "The Rokeby Venus": This sensuous painting by Spanish Baroque master Diego Velázquez is one of the few surviving examples of his mythological works. "The Rokeby Venus" depicts the Roman goddess Venus reclining on a bed, gazing into a mirror held by her son, Cupid. The painting is celebrated for its delicate treatment of the female form and the subtle use of light and colour to create texture and depth.

5. Claude Monet’s "The Water-Lily Pond": Monet’s "The Water-Lily Pond", painted in 1899, is part of his famous series of water lily paintings, inspired by his garden at Giverny. This Impressionist masterpiece captures the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere, with the shimmering reflections of water lilies on the pond. Monet’s use of colour and loose brushstrokes creates a dreamlike scene that is instantly recognizable.

6. J.M.W. Turner’s "The Fighting Temeraire": Voted Britain’s favourite painting in 2005, Turner’s "The Fighting Temeraire" is a hauntingly beautiful depiction of the final journey of the HMS Temeraire, a warship that played a significant role in the Battle of Trafalgar. Turner’s masterful use of light, particularly in the glowing sunset, contrasts the fading grandeur of the ship with the coming industrial age, symbolised by the steam tug pulling it to its final berth.

7. Hans Holbein the Younger’s "The Ambassadors": This famous painting from 1533 is a tour de force of Northern Renaissance portraiture. It depicts two French ambassadors surrounded by objects symbolising their wealth, education, and interests. The painting is best known for its anamorphic skull, a distorted shape that can only be seen correctly when viewed from an angle, symbolising the transience of life.

National Gallery Facilities and Visitor Information

The National Gallery offers a range of services to enhance the visitor experience. The museum provides guided tours, audio guides, and family-friendly trails, helping visitors of all ages engage with the artworks. For those wanting a more in-depth exploration, the gallery hosts regular talks and lectures by art historians, as well as practical art workshops.

The museum features a well-stocked shop, offering art books, prints, posters, and souvenirs inspired by the collection. For dining, the National Café and National Dining Rooms serve a selection of meals, snacks, and afternoon tea, with views over Trafalgar Square. The café provides a casual dining experience, while the dining rooms offer a more formal setting, making it an ideal stop for visitors looking to take a break during their visit.

The National Gallery is fully accessible, with ramps, lifts, and wheelchair-friendly paths throughout the building. There are also accessible restrooms and wheelchairs available for loan. For visitors with visual or hearing impairments, the museum offers large-print guides and hearing loops in certain areas.

Nearby Attractions

The National Gallery’s location in the heart of London makes it convenient to visit several other major attractions. Trafalgar Square, just outside the museum, is one of London’s most famous public spaces, often hosting events, performances, and public art installations. Adjacent to the National Gallery is the National Portrait Gallery, which houses portraits of famous figures from British history, including monarchs, politicians, and artists.

Other nearby attractions include The British Museum, which is just a short bus or tube ride away, and Covent Garden, known for its street performances, boutique shops, and dining options. Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, both within walking distance, offer theatres, cinemas, and vibrant nightlife. The River Thames is also close by, with Embankment Gardens providing a pleasant spot for a riverside stroll.

Practical Advice for Visitors

The National Gallery is open daily, and admission to the permanent collection is free, although special exhibitions may require a ticket. It’s a good idea to check the gallery’s website in advance for information on current exhibitions, events, and any potential closures.

Due to the museum’s size and the breadth of its collection, visitors may want to plan ahead by identifying key works they wish to see. The gallery can get busy, especially during weekends and school holidays, so arriving early or visiting on weekdays is advisable for a quieter experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the gallery is large and spread over several floors.

Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography is prohibited. Visitors should also be mindful of special exhibitions, where photography may be restricted.