London can be an expensive place to plan a day out for the whole family. However, as you’re about to discover, there’s an amazing selection of art galleries in the city that you can visit for free!
As well as being able to enjoy countless art displays without spending a penny, many of these venues also host events, such as talks, workshops, education courses and other family-friendly activities.
Many of the galleries on this list offer interactive workshops for young children, and this can be great for early cognitive development and learning. These workshops are a chance to meet other children and be exposed to new types of educational play.
For older kids and teens, visiting galleries can encourage their creativity, as they can be inspired by the work they see. It can also teach them cultural awareness and provide insight into different periods throughout history.
Also, by discussing the artwork with your children, you can help them develop their critical thinking skills.
All of the galleries on this list are in London and make for a fun and educational day out for the whole family.
1. Saatchi Gallery
Area: Chelsea, SW3 4RY
Reviews: 4.5/5 stars from 8,659 Google reviews
The Saatchi Gallery offers a combination of free and ticketed exhibitions, with the free displays typically found on the ground floor.
This gallery, which has a reputation for showcasing emerging artists, also hosts talks, courses and workshops for free, many of which your children can participate in.
Food and drink at the Saatchi Gallery
The Saatchi Gallery Bar & Brasserie is now closed; however, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby, such as Caraffini, an Italian restaurant, and The Black Penny coffee shop.
Saatchi Gallery opening hours
The Saatchi Gallery is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The last entry to the gallery is at 5:20 p.m., and entry to ticketed exhibitions ends at 4:00 p.m.
Opening hours sometimes vary due to private events, so check online before your visit.
Sloane Square is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to the Saatchi Gallery
Visit the Saatchi Gallery website to plan your visit and for more information.
2. Tate Modern
Area: Bankside, SE1 9TG
Reviews: 4.5/5 stars from 74,298 Google reviews
The Tate Modern is home to a collection of art from the last 100 years, including paintings and sculptures. Entrance to the gallery is free, with different paid exhibitions taking place throughout the year.
The Tate Modern provides fantastic activities for children, such as drawing desks where they can bring their drawings to life with digital sketch pads.
Children can also enjoy UNIQLO Tate Play, which consists of various art activities and play sessions for all ages.
Food and drink at the Tate Modern
The Tate Modern Kitchen and Bar serves a seasonal menu that’s often inspired by the exhibitions.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and allergen information is available on request.
Additionally, the Tate Modern Members Bar can be found on Level 5, where members can enjoy the view and a selection of hot and cold food and drinks.
Tate Modern opening hours
The Tate Modern is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The last entry to the gallery is at 5:30 p.m.
Southwark and Blackfriars are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to the Tate Modern
Visit the Tate Modern website to plan your visit and for more information.
3. White Cube
Areas: Bermondsey, SE1 3TQ and Westminster, SW1Y 6BU
Reviews: 4.6/5 stars from 1,869 Google reviews
White Cube galleries can be found all over the world, from Hong Kong to Paris, with two right here in London.
The London galleries host exhibitions from different artists throughout the year, so it’s the perfect place to keep coming back to.
Food and drink at the White Cube
Refreshments aren’t available inside the galleries, but both have a variety of options nearby.
White Cube opening hours
The Bermondsey venue is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
London Bridge is the closest tube station.
The Westminster venue is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Green Park is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to the White Cube
Visit the White Cube website to plan your visit and for more information.
4. Victoria Miro
Area: Hackney, N1 7RW
Reviews: 4.5/5 stars from 663 Google reviews
Labelled one of the most beautiful commercial galleries in London by Time Out magazine, Victoria Miro displays the work of artists from all around the world.
There are indoor and outdoor spaces where various exhibitions and installations of both paintings and sculptures can be enjoyed.
This gallery doesn’t offer kid’s activities, so it’s likely better suited to older children and teenagers.
Food and drink at Victoria Miro
Refreshments aren’t available inside the gallery, but several restaurants and cafes are nearby, such as Anu’s Kitchen and The Wenlock Cafe.
Victoria Miro opening hours
Victoria Miro is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Old Street and Angel are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to Victoria Miro
Visit the Victoria Miro website to plan your visit and for more information.
5. Whitechapel Gallery
Area: Whitechapel, E1 7QX
Reviews: 4.2/5 stars from 2,412 Google reviews
Found in the heart of London’s East End, the Whitechapel Gallery is home to a diverse collection of art.
Here you can enjoy the work of internationally recognised artists, as well as displays from the local community.
In addition to the paintings in the gallery, you can also go along for screenings, talks and other events, such as the Young Creatives Night.
Food and drink at the Whitechapel Gallery
During your visit to the Whitechapel Gallery, you can take a break at the Townsend dining room, cafe and bar. Here, the menu changes daily with a focus on British produce.
Whitechapel Gallery opening hours
Whitechapel Gallery is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Liverpool Street and Aldgate East are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to the Whitechapel Gallery
Visit the Whitechapel Gallery website to plan your visit and for more information.
6. Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
Area: Ealing, W5 5EQ
Reviews: 4.7/5 stars from 458 Google reviews
The Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery is a family-friendly art space where everyone is welcome.
The gallery is home to both traditional art forms and digital creations, making it a great place for the whole family to explore the history of creative expression.
Different events take place during the year, such as Mini Makers, which is a chance for your little ones to create masterpieces with various materials.
Food and drink at the Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
Visitors can take their pick between two cafes — the Pitzhanger Cafe and the Pitzhanger Pantry. Both sell a range of hot and cold food and drinks, including coffees, pastries, cakes and ice creams.
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery opening hours
The Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery is open Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The gallery is also open on Bank Holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Ealing Broadway is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to the Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
Visit the Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery website to plan your visit and for more information.
7. National Portrait Gallery
Area: WC2H 0HE, Soho
Reviews: 4.7/5 stars from 11,240 Google reviews
The National Portrait Gallery is an exciting day out for the whole family, showcasing exhibitions and displays from local and international artists. It boasts the largest collection of portraits in the world, with more than 220,000 pieces of work.
The gallery organises activities and events for families during the school holidays, such as Little Explorers: Caribbean Folktales storytelling sessions and Family Day: The Big Draw.
Food and drink at the National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery has a lot of dining options to offer, with The Portrait Restaurant at the top of the building and two Audrey Green cafes on the ground floor and lower level.
National Portrait Gallery opening hours
The National Portrait Gallery is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Charing Cross and Leicester Square are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to the National Portrait Gallery
Visit the National Portrait Gallery website to plan your visit and for more information.
8. Royal Academy of Arts
Area: This gallery has two entrances: Piccadilly, W1J 0BD + W1S 3ET
Reviews: 4.5/5 stars from 1,601 Google reviews
There’s a lot to see, enjoy and participate in at the Royal Academy of Arts, from both free and paid exhibitions to talks, lectures, short courses and workshops.
Family-friendly workshops to get involved in include Early Years Studio: Colour, where kids will learn to experiment with colour, and the Family Workshop for Children with SEND, where everyone gets the chance to direct a performance.
Food and drink at the Royal Academy of Arts
Visitors to the Royal Academy of Arts are spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink.
Within the gallery, you can head to the RA Café for afternoon tea or to check out the lunch menu. Or, if you prefer to relax under the sun, head to the Courtyard Café for coffee and light refreshments.
For a more substantial meal, the José Pizarro restaurant offers all-day Spanish cuisine, and the nearby Poster Bar provides smaller plates, which are perfect for sharing, and also has a bar.
Royal Academy of Arts opening hours
The Royal Academy of Arts is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Opening hours are extended to 9:00 p.m. on Friday.
Piccadilly Circus is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to the Royal Academy of Arts
Visit the Royal Academy of Arts website to plan your visit and for more information.
9. Somerset House
Area: Strand, WC2R 1LA
Reviews: 4.5/5 stars from 1,538 Google reviews
Somerset House is a huge venue in central London, encompassing an exciting range of different activities and events, including art exhibitions and installations.
There’s always something for the whole family to enjoy, with plenty of opportunities for learning too.
Entrance to Somerset House is free, with paid tickets required for certain areas and events.
Food and drink at Somerset House
There’s a great selection of cafes, restaurants and bars throughout Somerset House, including Cafe Eat Ten, the Spring restaurant and the Somerset House Terrace Bar.
Somerset House opening hours
There are different opening hours in place for various areas in Somerset House. The general entrance on the Strand is open from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. every day.
Opening times for exhibitions and events are Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The last entry is always an hour before closing time.
Click here for full information on opening times.
Temple and Covent Garden are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to Somerset House
Visit the Somerset House website to plan your visit and for more information.
10. Young V&A
Area: Bethnal Green, E2 9PA
Reviews: 4.3/5 stars from 4,572 Google reviews
The Young V&A is home to three different galleries, Imagine, Play and Design, where children can explore art and get creative.
Families can participate in different workshops throughout the year to learn about the arts and get stuck in themselves, such as at the African Textiles workshop.
Food and drink at the Young V&A
Inside the Young V&A, the Town Square Café offers a great range of hot and cold food, as well as pastries, cakes, tea and coffee. You’re also welcome to bring cold food and drinks to enjoy in the cafe or nearby museum gardens.
Young V&A opening hours
The Young V&A is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., but be aware the galleries close at 5:00 p.m.
Bethnal Green is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to the Young V&A
Visit the Young V&A website to plan your visit and for more information.
11. Japan House
Area: Kensington, W8 5SA
Reviews: 4.6/5 stars from 1,412 Google reviews
Japan House is a chance to immerse your family in Japanese culture with free exhibitions and events. Here, you can view incredible art, as well as design, technology and innovation from Japan.
The gallery frequently hosts talks, demonstrations and film screenings, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
A visit to Japan House isn’t complete without a trip to the shop, where you can browse a collection of carefully curated products, some of which are sold here exclusively.
Food and drink at Japan House
Japanese restaurant AKIRA is situated on the first floor of Japan House and is open for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
The restaurant welcomes diners of all ages but has a limited number of highchairs available, so booking in advance is recommended if required.
Japan House opening hours
Japan House is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sundays and Bank Holidays from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
High Street Kensington is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to Japan House
Visit the Japan House website to plan your visit and for more information.
12. Barbican Centre
Area: Barbican, EC2Y 8DS
Reviews: 4.6/5 stars from 3,844 Google reviews
The Barbican Centre has so much to offer, from cinema to music, theatre and dance.
On Level G of the Barbican, everyone can enjoy a range of free exhibitions, installations, events and more!
In addition to the free displays, families can participate in a range of no-cost fun at the Barbican, such as creative play for those under five years old at Squish Space and enjoy digital programmes produced by young people.
Food and drink at the Barbican Centre
There’s an excellent range of places to eat and drink, whether you’re in the mood for a light refreshment or a full restaurant menu. For a family-friendly environment, the Barbican Kitchen on the ground floor is your best bet!
Barbican Centre opening hours
The Barbican Centre is open from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. every day, with hours changing to 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Bank Holidays.
Opening hours for the paid art gallery vary depending on the current exhibition.
Barbican is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to the Barbican Centre
Visit the Barbican Centre website to plan your visit and for more information.
13. the Design Museum
Area: Kensington, W8 6AG
Reviews: 4.4/5 stars from 11,089 Google reviews
The Design Museum is a chance to explore the concept of design in every form, from fashion and graphics to architecture and products.
Visitors can browse the extensive collections, as well as enjoy events, digital programmes, workshops and educational opportunities.
The museum offers an amazing selection of in-person and online experiences for families with children of all ages.
Past and present activities for young people include robot-making workshops, architectural model-making lessons and a chance for kids to design and make their own skateboards.
Food and drink at the Design Museum
Visitors can choose from the Design Kitchen for lounge-style dining or the Design Cafe for a coffee and a light snack.
the Design Museum opening hours
The Design Museum is open Monday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Kensington High Street is the closest tube station.
Plan your visit to the Design Museum
Visit the Design Museum website for more information.
14. The National Gallery
Area: Westminster, WC2N 5DN
Reviews: 4.7/5 stars from 48,932 Google reviews
The National Gallery overlooks the world-famous Trafalgar Square, making it easy to find.
This art museum is home to more than 2,000 paintings dating from the 13th century, making it a great place to engage with history as well as art.
As an added bonus, The National Gallery provides workshops during the school holidays, so there’s a chance for your kids to get involved in different creative activities.
Food and drink at The National Gallery
The National Gallery is home to two restaurants, Ochre and Muriel’s Kitchen, and also has an espresso bar for drinks and lighter refreshments.
The National Gallery opening hours
The National Gallery is open every day from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., with opening hours extended to 9:00 p.m. on Fridays.
Charing Cross and Leicester Square are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to The National Gallery
Visit The National Gallery website to plan your visit and for more information.
15. Serpentine Galleries
Areas: Serpentine South Gallery, Kensington, W2 3XA and Serpentine North Gallery, Kensington, W2 2AR.
Reviews: 4.4/5 stars from 739 Google reviews
There are two Serpentine galleries, and both are free to visit. They can be found in Kensington Gardens on either side of the Serpentine Bridge.
Both galleries showcase contemporary art, with a great selection of free exhibitions, events and educational activities.
Lancaster Gate and Knightsbridge are the closest tube stations for both galleries.
Food and drink at the Serpentine Galleries
For food and drink, head to The Magazine Restaurant in the North Gallery or the Pavilion Café in the South Gallery.
Serpentine Galleries opening hours
Both galleries are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and also open on Bank Holidays.
Lancaster Gate and Knightsbridge are the closest tube stations for both galleries.
Plan your visit to the Serpentine Galleries
Visit the Serpentine Galleries website to plan your visit and for more information.
16. Tate Britain
Area: Millbank, SW1P 4RG
Reviews: 4.7/5 stars from 18,942 Google reviews
The Tate Britain proudly displays more than 500 years of British art, making it a great place to explore local artists throughout history.
There are free activities for families with children to enjoy every weekend, including digital drawing, play sessions and storytelling.
Food and drink at the Tate Britain
The Djanogly Café is the place to rest and refuel. Here, you can enjoy a range of treats, from hot food to homemade salads, fresh sandwiches, pastries, cakes and hot drinks.
Tate Britain opening hours
The Tate Britain is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Pimlico and Vauxhall are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to the Tate Britain
Visit the Tate Britain website to plan your visit and for more information.
17. The Wallace Collection
Area: Marylebone, W1U 3BN
Reviews: 4.7/5 stars from 7,732 Google reviews
The Wallace Collection features displays of paintings, sculptures and historical pieces, such as furniture and armour.
The gallery offers family-friendly events with hands-on activities for little ones to learn and play, such as the Hands on Armour workshop.
Here, children have the chance to discover and try on different armours worn throughout history.
Food and drink at The Wallace Collection
Visitors to The Wallace Collection can enjoy light refreshments in the gallery café or opt for al fresco dining in the restaurant.
The Wallace Collection opening hours
The Wallace Collection is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day.
Bond Street and Marble Arch are the closest tube stations.
Plan your visit to The Wallace Collection
Visit The Wallace Collection website to plan your visit and for more information.
Explore Free Art Galleries in London
As you can see, you and your family are spoilt for choice when looking for free art galleries in London.
Plus, with so many of these venues offering different events and activities throughout the year, it’s easy to always enjoy educational entertainment during the weekends and school holidays!
