A few practical tips to make the most of a visit to The National Portrait Gallery, at St Martin's Place, right next to The National Gallery.
The National Portrait Gallery sits just off Trafalgar Square, next to The National Gallery. The closest Underground stations are Charing Cross and Leicester Square, both a short walk away.
Mornings on weekdays tend to be quietest. Weekends and school holidays are busier, especially around the most famous portraits.
A focused visit to the highlights takes about 1-2 hours. Allow longer if you want to explore the full chronological collection.
Skip downloading a separate app for the Gallery's own digital guide. Audioguide.London works directly in your phone's browser, free, in 6 languages. See the free National Portrait Gallery audio guide for details.
If your time is limited, start with the National Portrait Gallery must-see portraits.
Hours vary by day, with at least one late opening most weeks. Check the Gallery's official website for the current schedule before visiting.
It can get busy around the most famous portraits, especially on weekends and school holidays. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter.
It's at St Martin's Place, just off Trafalgar Square, next to The National Gallery. The nearest Underground stations are Charing Cross and Leicester Square.