Whether a Renaissance painting or a vintage jacket tickles your fancy; or if you prefer strolling through artwork-adorned walls or strolling through stall-lined streets, London is the city for any, and all, art lovers! Here is an art lover’s guide to London.
The Fan Museum
Location: Greenwich
Husband and wife duo ‘Dickie’ and Hélène Alexander founded the unique Fan Museum with their very own collection. Historical and modern fans are displayed in a classic Georgian townhouse with a tranquil Orangerie to relax in afterwards. Don’t miss the museum’s fan-making workshops that are held monthly.
Victoria & Albert Museum
Location: Knightsbridge
Commonly referred to as the V&A, the Victoria & Albert Museum is named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. It has an outstanding history having been founded in 1852, expanding to over 100 galleries with artwork in all different forms. From statement fashion pieces to eclectic sculptures, an added bonus is that its permanent exhibitions are free to visit!
Leake Street Tunnel
Location: Lambeth
Seeing over 300 metres of street art and graffiti housed in a tunnel under Waterloo Station is an unforgettable experience. The world-famous English street artist, Banksy, led the charge to turn Leake Street Tunnel into a legal graffiti area in 2008. Since then, the tunnel has been updated almost daily so you can visit twice in one week and find new pieces. Head to the nearby Leake Street Arches after your visit, a hub for food, drink and entertainment.
National Gallery
Location: Trafalgar Square
The National Gallery gives off grandiose vibes from its exterior, and it’s no different once you step foot inside. Its airy halls display a collection of over 2,300 pieces from Europe’s very best artists from the mid-13th century to 1900 – such as one of Vincent van Gogh’s famous ‘Sunflowers’ painting.
Alfies Antique Market
Location: Marylebone
Alfies Antique Market is one-of-a-kind. This indoor market screams bohemian vibes with almost 100 vendors selling a superb array of vintage art, jewellery, furniture and clothes. Don’t forget to stop by Rooftop Kitchen for a coffee on their sunshine-drenched balcony.
Tate Modern
Location: Bankside
Stepping into the airy main entranceway of the Tate Modern is a ‘wow’ moment for sure. This power-plant-turned-museum is the home of London’s best modern art exhibitions. Wile away an afternoon drifting from Andy Warhol to Pablo Picasso, as well as checking out their excellent gift stores for an arty souvenir. If you’re short of time, join one of their daily guided tours – they’re free and have different themes each day.
London is one of the best cities for art lovers. Discover London on a Globus or Cosmos tour, or as an extension with Avalon Waterways.
