The National Gallery
The permanent collection here is one of the greatest in the world and entirely free. The temporary exhibitions are consistently the best in London. Check the current programme before visiting.
Tip: Book temporary exhibitions online in advance
The Courtauld Gallery
Somerset House's finest occupant. The Impressionist collection is world-class and the gallery is small enough to do properly in two hours.
Tip: Allow two hours, start with the Impressionists
Serpentine Galleries
Two galleries in Hyde Park showing contemporary art at its most ambitious. The annual Pavilion commission is one of London's architectural highlights.
Tip: Visit during the summer Pavilion season
Victoria and Albert Museum
The world's greatest museum of art and design. The temporary exhibitions are reliably excellent. The café is underrated.
Tip: The café courtyard is one of London's best kept secrets
White Cube Bermondsey
London's most important commercial gallery. The Bermondsey space is the largest and shows the most ambitious work. Always free, always worth visiting.
Tip: Check the current exhibition before visiting
