THE LONDON MUSEUM GUIDES
London museums: painting, design and the river
London rewards a selective museum plan. Give one major collection the centre of your day, then add a smaller gallery, a particular exhibition or a walk between buildings. This selection moves from European painting and contemporary art to the design of everyday things.
Paintings and a sense of scale
Choose the National Gallery for a broad sweep of European painting, the Courtauld for a concentrated collection, or Dulwich for Old Masters in a quieter garden setting. Each can support a focused visit without requiring you to see every room.
Follow the current exhibition
Tate Modern and the Royal Academy suit visitors who want a particular exhibition as the main event. Tate’s collection is also a substantial visit in its own right. Check what each ticket includes before combining shows.
Art in everyday objects
The V&A and Design Museum shift the emphasis toward materials, making and use. Pick a few areas at the V&A, or use Designer Maker User as a compact starting point at the Design Museum.
