Royal Academy of Arts

KidRated’s Royal Academy of Arts Top Tips:

• Pick up an Art Detectives sketchbook when you arrive
• Tends to get crowded on weekends
• The on-site cafés are good but can be a bit pricey

Founded in 1768, The Royal Academy of Arts is the oldest fine arts institution in Britain and houses some of the finest temporary and touring exhibitions in the world.

It’s annual Summer Exhibition, running since the institution first opened, displays select work from up and coming artists and by academicians.

As an academy, the RA is more than an Art Gallery. It serves to promote not just the appreciation and understanding of art, but also its practice. In doing so, it works closely with artists and in the community, with its Artists working in RA schools, and in partnerships with organisations to help bring art to more people.

And, unlike most similar charities in London, the Royal Academy of Arts is totally independent of Government funding relying solely on the support of visitors, donors and sponsors.

The gallery caters to kids and families with their Art Detectives guides for Young visitors and by hosting a number of drop-in workshops.

Now in its second year, the Young Artists Summer Show is an opportunity for students aged 5–19 to exhibit their work online and at the RA. You can view last year’s exhibition here

Booking Advice

• Follow their blog to find out more information of activities and upcoming events
• Major exhibitions require advance booking, but members can just turn up on the day
• Family workshops are drop-in and FREE