National Gallery
Trafalgar Square WC2N 5DN
10am – 6pm daily, Friday until 9pm
Tube: Embankment, Charing Cross, Leicester Square.
1.5 hours +
Based on 14 reviews
About the National Gallery
Think art galleries are stuffy and serious? Think again. The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square is one of London’s best free family days out—packed with world-famous paintings, fun family trails, and just the right mix of calm and colour to keep everyone engaged (even the teen who swore they were “allergic to museums”).
Wander through bright rooms filled with masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, da Vinci, Turner and more. The gallery runs free workshops on weekends and holidays, plus there are trail maps designed just for kids. Teens can take it at their own pace using the digital guides (or just snap a selfie with The Arnolfini Portrait).
It’s wheelchair- and buggy-friendly, with baby-changing, quiet areas, and a brilliant café for mid-visit cake breaks. And don’t leave without checking out the gift shop—full of arty games, books, postcards and creative gifts.
Top tip from the KidRated Team:
Spot the flying babies (aka cherubs) – they’re everywhere! Challenge the kids to count how many they can find – the winner gets a hot chocolate in the café.
Absolutely. It’s free, full of colour, and packed with stories about pirates, princesses, monsters, and more (if you know where to look). Grab a family trail and make it into a fun art adventure.
Yes, loads. Look out for free drop-in workshops, creative trails, and family studio sessions during holidays and weekends.
Yes. Whether they’re into history, TikTok backdrops, or just moody portraits, there’s something to spark their interest. Plus, the gallery’s digital guides let them explore without a grown-up glued to their side.
Nope. Entry to the main gallery is free, just turn up. Only certain exhibitions require paid tickets.
Totally. There are lifts, ramps, accessible loos and quiet spaces. The gallery is easy to get around with wheels of any kind.
Yes, clean and convenient. You’ll find baby-changing near the main entrances and accessible loos throughout.
Yes – with high chairs, kids’ portions, and great cake. Or bring a picnic to eat on the square just outside.
Definitely. Quiet, calm, and filled with classics they’ll recognise, plus benches galore for rest stops.
Oh yes. Think colouring books, arty games, posters, and surprisingly affordable souvenirs for all ages.
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