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National Portrait Gallery
National Portrait Gallery
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About
The National Portrait Gallery is one of London’s premier art institutions, housing a vast collection of portraits that chronicle the lives of significant figures in British history, from Shakespeare to Queen Elizabeth II
Insider Tips
The gallery’s collection spans five centuries, featuring portraits of monarchs, politicians, artists, and cultural icons. You’ll find works by renowned artists like Lucian Freud and contemporary pieces of figures such as David Bowie and Malala Yousafzai. The Tudor section is a highlight, featuring iconic portraits of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and other significant figures of that era
Early mornings or late afternoons during the week are the best times to visit if you want to avoid crowds. The gallery is especially peaceful during these times, allowing you to explore at your own pace and enjoy the limited seating throughout the gallery to take breaks
Did you know?
The National Portrait Gallery was the first portrait gallery in the world when it opened in 1856. It was established with the idea that portraits could capture not only the likeness of a person but also their character and significance in history, making it a pioneer in portrait art