London has hundreds of galleries to explore, no matter what form of art you’re looking for. The world’s most renowned painters, sculptors, designers and contemporary artists have contributed to the works adorning the walls of these revered spaces all over the UK’s capital, so choosing where to go on your next trip could be tricky.
Some cultural institutions are not to be missed on your next visit to London though, and we’ve found a few just a short journey away from our Park Grand Kensington Hotel to add to your itinerary right away.
Tate Britain
The Tate Britain was established more than 120 years ago in 1897, and, as one of the largest museums in the country, it has played host to some of the world’s most incredible contemporary artists.
Known as the National Gallery of British Art until 1932 and the Tate Gallery until the turn of the millennium, the Tate Britain is situated in the centre of London in the borough of Westminster. Journeying there on foot from your Park Grand Kensington accommodation is recommended, as the walk will take you past some of the most exquisite architecture and statues in Britain, including the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square.
At the Tate Britain, you’ll find art dating from the 16th century to the modern day, with exhibitions running at the moment which showcases the works of Lisa Brice, Francis Bacon and Anthea Hamilton. Current collections also explore ‘Art in the Wake of World War I’, ‘Art in the Age of Black Girl Magic’ and ‘The Art of Moving Images’ among many others.
The Saatchi Gallery
Opened by Charles Saatchi in 1985, the Saatchi Gallery has most recently found its home in Chelsea, just a half an hour walk or a 15 minute Tube ride from our hotel In Kensington.
The Saatchi Gallery is famous for showing the works of unknown artists and future leaders in the art world. For example, it was here that Damien Hurst got his big break in 1988 in a seminal show called Freeze, and the Saatchi Gallery is where Hurst’s infamous vitrine containing a shark preserved in formaldehyde was displayed.
Today, ‘Black Mirror: Art As Social Satire’ and ‘Cash is King: The Art of Defaced Banknotes’ are just a couple of the gallery’s must-see exhibitions.
The Serpentine Galleries
Nestled in the heart of the Royal Park of Kensington Gardens in Hyde Park – a legendary London beauty spot – the Serpentine Galleries are comprised of the Serpentine Gallery and the Serpentine Sackler Gallery, situated across the River from each other and joined by the Serpentine Bridge.
The first Serpentine Gallery was established in 1970 and showcases works in a variety of mediums by established and emerging artists. The Serpentine Pavilion is the newest addition to the collection of buildings. Designed by Frida Escobedo, the Pavilion is open until early October 2018 and has been one of this summer’s most enjoyed beauty spots.
