The UK has a particularly strong artistic heritage, making it the perfect location to visit world-class art galleries and museums. Whether you’re a fan of classic collections or modern masterpieces, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the best art galleries in the UK to help you plan your next visit.
The Serpentine Galleries, London
Located in the heart of Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine Galleries in London are renowned for the contemporary art that sits within the walls. Open since 1970, the Serpentine has presented a wide range of pioneering exhibitions to some of the most recognised artists of our time. The Serpentine also offers a free programme of exhibitions and live events for visitors to attend throughout each year.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Yorkshire
Yorkshire Sculpture Park is the leading international centre for contemporary sculptures, set in a 500 acre plot of Bretton Hall estate. Yorkshire Sculpture Park was the first in the UK, and is by far the largest of its kind in Europe. The Park hosts a significant range of pieces, from famous sculptors such as Barbara Heprowrth and Andy Goldsworthy. What’s more, the park has a great selection of restaurants and eateries and even allows dogs on leads to enter, making it the perfect place to visit with family and friends.
Tate Modern, London
One of the country’s most infamous art galleries, Tate Modern houses an incredible selection of international and contemporary art pieces. Tate Modern is one of the largest art museums of modern art in the world, and as with other British galleries, offers free admission to the general public.
Some of the gallery’s most well-known pieces include David Hockney’s ‘A Bigger Splash’, Andy Warhol’s ‘Marilyn Diptych’ and Pablo Picasso’s ‘The Weeping Woman’.
Learn more about the collection, visiting hours and admission on the Tate Modern website.
Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh
The Scottish National Gallery is the national art gallery of Scotland, and can be found in central Edinburgh. The gallery is home to a national collection of fine Scottish art, which spans from the beginning of the Renaissance all the way up to the beginning of the 20th Century. The building which houses these pieces was designed in the form of an Ancient Greek temple, with great stone columns and a pointed rooftop.
National Portrait Gallery, London
The National Portrait Gallery in London holds an extensive collection of portraits and is known to be the first ever portrait gallery in the world. The gallery has a fantastically comprehensive range of British portraiture, dating back to medieval times and coming forward into the new era. The National portrait gallery houses an entirety of artwork mediums, including acrylic paint, oil paint, etching, sculpture, pencil sketch, and much more.
Looking to get started on your own masterpiece? Take a look at our blog on How To Find Inspiration For Your Art.
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