National Portrait Gallery

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The National Portrait Gallery houses a collection of portraits of historically important and famous British people. It was the first portrait gallery in the world when it opened in 1856.

The gallery houses portraits of historically important and famous British people, selected on the basis of the significance of the sitter, not that of the artist. The collection includes photographs and caricatures as well as paintings, drawings and sculpture. One of its best-known images is the Chandos portrait, the most famous portrait of William Shakespeare.

Enjoy light meals with an emphasis on the best of British ingredients in this stylish and contemporary cafe or visit the popular rooftop restaurant boasting spectacular views over London.

Opening Hours:

Open daily 10:00-18:00

Open until 21:00
Thursday and Friday.

Closing commences 10 minutes prior to the stated time. The first and second floors open at 11:00 every Monday due to staff training. Last admission to paying exhibitions is either 45 minutes or 1 hour before the Gallery closes.

The Gallery is closed 24-26 December.