National Portrait Gallery Free

Discover one of the most extensive collections of portraits in the world at The National Portrait Gallery.

Founded in 1856, the world-famous gallery tells the story of Britain through portraits, using art to bring history to life and explore living today.

From global icons to unsung heroes, the Collection spans six centuries and is filled with the stories that have shaped a nation.

What can I see at the National Portrait Gallery?

The National Portrait Gallery has more than 220,000 portraits in its Collection, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings and prints.

With works dating from the 8th century to the present day, discover the people who have helped shaped British history and culture; from global icons and national treasures to local champions and unsung heroes.

Take time to explore the carefully curated collections, including prints, drawings and contemporary portraits.

What’s on at the National Portrait Gallery?

The National Portrait Gallery has unmissable events throughout the year.

Join a free daily tour to learn more about the portraits in the Collection. Focus on a single portrait at a 30-minute Portrait of the Day talk, scheduled every day at 12.30pm. To explore the Collection in more detail, the 45-minute Highlights Tour takes place daily at 11am and 3pm.

Visit the official website to see the full events programme, from displays and exhibitions to panel discussions and life drawing.

Is the gallery free to enter?

The National Portrait Gallery is free to visit, and you can explore the Collection for free. However, some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Can I shop here?

The National Portrait Gallery Shop features a unique range of products, including wall art, books, accessories and gifts inspired by the Collection.

There are two exhibition shops, located at the end of each exhibition, where you can browse limited edition merchandise. 

Can I eat and drink here?

There are four different eateries at The National Portrait Gallery to enjoy a bite to eat and a refreshing drink.

Audrey Green Café offers a range of fresh juices, drinks and delicious cakes, salads and sandwiches. Portrait Pavilion is takeaway only, offering speciality coffee and pastries, cakes and sandwiches. The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan specialises in contemporary British dining, serving seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Larry’s Bar, located in the newly restored vaults of the Gallery, serves all day brunch, light lunch menu, cream teas and classic cocktails with a twist.

Where is the gallery?

The National Portrait Gallery is located at St Martin’s Place in Central London.

How to get there

The closest tube stations to The National Portrait Gallery are Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines), Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines).

The closest train station is Charing Cross.

Alternatively, travel by bus to Trafalgar Square, where the nearest bus stop is Bus Stop K/E.

The closest Santander Cycles docking stations are on St Martin's Street, Craven Street, Pall Mall East, William IV Street, Charles II Street and Oxendon Street.