Serpentine Gallery

Go here if you feel the need to escape the hussle and bussle of the city. During all my visits to the Serpentine (usually in winter), it's been a tranquil environment for enjoying contemporary art. It's a lovely former tea pavillion situated in the middle of Kensington Gardens. It's a rather small building so I doubt if there's any future plans to add a cafe. There's a little gift shop with a wonderful selection of cards, gift items, and art books. Check out their website for current events. This gallery is the perfect brief stopping off point on your way to Kensington Palace or Royal Albert Hall. Also a nice interlude if you've got time between rail departures at Paddington Station. Instead of sitting in the train station, check your luggage at the "Left luggage" counter, and take a stroll down to Kensington Gardens/Hyde Park.