Dulwich Picture Gallery London
World's first purpose-built public art gallery, housing Old Masters in stunning Sir John Soane architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer visitors, peaceful viewing
Dulwich Picture Gallery London
Best Time
Fewer visitors, peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
World's first purpose-built public art gallery, housing Old Masters in stunning Sir John Soane architecture.
"A hidden gem with world-class art and beautiful architecture, offering a peaceful escape."
🎟️ Free Entry for Many
General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require a ticket. Check their website for details.
🚶 Explore Dulwich Village
Combine your gallery visit with a stroll through the charming Dulwich Village and its lovely streets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Old Masters Collection
Main Galleries
Marvel at masterpieces by Rembrandt, Poussin, and Gainsborough in a stunning Soane-designed space.

Sir John Soane's Architecture
The Gallery Building
Admire the visionary architecture of the world's first purpose-built public art gallery.

Japanese Printmaking Exhibition
Temporary Exhibition Space
Experience the exquisite woodblock prints of the Yoshida family, spanning three generations.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Free Entry for Many
General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require a ticket. Check their website for details.
🚶 Explore Dulwich Village
Combine your gallery visit with a stroll through the charming Dulwich Village and its lovely streets.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy a coffee or light meal at the gallery cafe, often praised for its pleasant ambiance.
🖼️ Check Current Exhibitions
The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions; always check what's on to make the most of your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Free Entry for Many
General admission is free! Special exhibitions may require a ticket. Check their website for details.
🚶 Explore Dulwich Village
Combine your gallery visit with a stroll through the charming Dulwich Village and its lovely streets.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy a coffee or light meal at the gallery cafe, often praised for its pleasant ambiance.
🖼️ Check Current Exhibitions
The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions; always check what's on to make the most of your visit.
🚗 Parking Challenges
On-site parking is limited. Consider public transport or be prepared for street parking searches.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Dulwich Picture Gallery for its beautiful collection of Old Masters and the stunning, historically significant architecture by Sir John Soane. The free admission is a major draw, and the charming setting of Dulwich Village adds to the appeal. Some find parking challenging and may wish for more extensive contemporary art offerings.
"Went on a sunny Sunday to see the permanent exhibition. The pictures are beautiful, and the interior really fits with the style of paintings (17th/18th century, with the oldest painting being from c.1500). You can find works from Gainsborough and Hogarth, and masters from all over Europe.
A particular thing to notice beyond the beautiful art are the intricate gold frames adorning each painting. They accent the colour on the walls and are each unique in their own way.
An Art Fund membership will get you into the permanent exhibition for free, but not the temporary exhibition."
Lorne Inglis
"Dulwich Picture Gallery is a gem—calm, elegant, and filled with natural light. It’s Britain’s first purpose-built public art gallery, and the permanent collection focuses on 17th- and 18th-century European art, with works by Gainsborough, Rembrandt, Poussin, and Canaletto. The guest exhibition during my visit offered a thoughtful contrast to the classics, with contemporary curation that felt fresh and accessible. The gallery spaces are intimate and beautifully designed, and there’s a lovely café and a garden with sculptures."
Tanya Lake
"You can buy tickets in advance. I have been here many times. It is a treasure art museum. There are long-term oil painting exhibitions that are private collections. Every few months, there will be exhibitions of special artists. The works of many talented and wise female artists appear here, which is very touching.
The design of the whole art gallery is also unique and exquisite. Next to it is the pancakes in the coffee shop, which are very delicious!
Looking forward to more and better works. The staff is very responsible, and the venue is very quiet."
QIU QIU
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gallery is accessible via train to West Dulwich or Dulwich Park stations, followed by a bus (e.g., P4, 176, 196, 363) or a walk. It's not directly on a Tube line, so plan your journey accordingly.
Parking is very limited and can be difficult to find. It's recommended to use public transport or explore nearby street parking, though this can also be challenging.
Yes, cycling is a great option. There are usually bike racks available at the gallery. It's a pleasant ride through the Dulwich area.
From central London, you can take a train from Victoria or London Bridge to West Dulwich station, which is a short bus ride or walk away from the gallery.
The gallery is generally accessible, with lifts and ramps to help navigate the building. It's advisable to check their website for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the permanent collection is free! However, special temporary exhibitions usually require a paid ticket. It's best to book these in advance online.
The gallery is typically open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm. Some days may have extended hours, so always check their official website for the most current opening times.
No, the gallery is usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your visit for Wednesday through Sunday to explore the collections.
While general admission is free, discounts for special exhibitions may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the 'Visit' section of their website for details on pricing and concessions.
You can see the main collection in about 1-2 hours. If you plan to see a special exhibition and enjoy the cafe, allow for 2-3 hours.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss masterpieces by Rembrandt, Poussin, and Gainsborough. The gallery's collection of 17th and 18th-century European Old Masters is its highlight.
Yes, the gallery often has family-friendly activities and trails. The open spaces and engaging artworks can be captivating for younger visitors.
Yes, guided tours are often available, providing deeper insights into the collection and the gallery's history. Check the schedule upon arrival or book in advance.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in the permanent collection areas, but without flash. Special exhibitions may have different restrictions, so always look for signage.
Designed by Sir John Soane, it's considered the world's first purpose-built public art gallery. Its innovative design and natural light are celebrated.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the gallery has a lovely cafe that serves coffee, tea, cakes, and light meals. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the art.
The cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and hot drinks. It's a good option for a casual lunch or a coffee break.
Dulwich Village has several charming cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines. You can find options for a more substantial meal just a short walk from the gallery.
Generally, outside food and drink are not permitted inside the gallery spaces. It's best to consume your own food in designated outdoor areas or nearby parks.
Yes, the cafe is usually welcoming to families and offers a relaxed atmosphere for parents and children.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal, non-commercial use is usually allowed in the permanent collection galleries without flash. Always check for specific signage regarding temporary exhibitions.
The architecture itself, particularly the Soane-designed spaces, offers great photographic opportunities. Look for interesting light and architectural details.
Yes, flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the artworks. Tripods and selfie sticks may also be restricted.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons can offer softer, more natural light, which is ideal for photographing art and architecture.
Yes, the exterior and the surrounding gardens are beautiful and can be photographed freely. It's a picturesque setting, especially on a sunny day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Dulwich Park for a picnic or playtime, making for a perfect family day out in South East London. The gallery's cafe also offers a relaxed spot for a family break. Remember to check their website for any specific family events or workshops happening during your visit.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down further, consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy in the nearby Dulwich Park, rather than relying solely on the gallery cafe. Getting there via public transport, rather than a taxi or ride-share, will also save money. It's a perfect example of how to enjoy high-quality art experiences on a budget.
🏛️ Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Beyond the permanent collection, the gallery's history as a public institution and its role in art patronage are fascinating. Exploring the building's design and understanding its context provides a unique historical perspective. Keep an eye on their schedule for special exhibitions that often delve into specific artists, periods, or themes, offering further scholarly engagement.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Genius of Sir John Soane
Soane's architectural philosophy emphasized the interplay of light and shadow, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for visitors. He meticulously planned the flow of the galleries, guiding visitors through a series of interconnected spaces that reveal the collection in a thoughtful sequence. The gallery's facade, while understated, hints at the treasures within, and its integration with the surrounding landscape was also a key consideration. Exploring the building allows one to appreciate Soane's genius in creating a space that is both functional and aesthetically inspiring, a testament to his enduring legacy in British architecture.
A Glimpse into Old Masters
Beyond the most famous names, the collection includes important pieces by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and Claude Lorrain, showcasing the diversity of Baroque and Rococo art. The intimate scale of the gallery allows for a close appreciation of the technical skill, emotional depth, and historical context of each painting. It's an ideal destination for art lovers seeking a curated experience of European art history, away from the overwhelming scale of larger institutions.
The Yoshida Family: A Legacy in Printmaking
The exhibition offered a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of this art form through the eyes of a single, talented family. Visitors could explore the diverse styles and subjects, from traditional landscapes to more contemporary interpretations, all rendered with the precision and beauty characteristic of Japanese woodblock prints. Such exhibitions underscore the gallery's commitment to presenting a diverse range of art, connecting global artistic traditions with its London audience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit