The Courtauld Gallery
Somerset House, Strand, London, Greater London, WC2R 0RN
Masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century place The Courtauld Gallery among London’s finest art destinations. Treasures of its permanent collection include impressionist paintings by van Gogh and Manet, while rotating exhibitions showcase art with global reach. Even the setting is magnificent—the gallery is within the neoclassical Somerset House, a former home to Queen Elizabeth I that has sweeping views across the River Thames.
The basics
The Courtauld Gallery displays masterpieces that span from the medieval period to the modern day across three floors. Of particular note is its impressionist and post-impressionist collection, considered the best of its kind in the UK. Collection highlights include A Bar at the Folies-Bergère by Édouard Manet, Self Portrait with Bandaged Ear by Vincent Van Gogh, The Card Players by Paul Cézanne, and Vase of Flowers by Claude Monet.
The Courtauld Gallery, located in Somerset House on the Strand, is easy to visit independently as part of a cultural day out in central London. It’s a featured stop on several London art tours and is included in the cost-saving Go City scheme. It attracts fewer visitors than the nearby National Gallery, but its collection is equally impressive.
Things to know before you go
The Courtauld Gallery is accessible to wheelchair users and has an accessible toilet.
For a wide range of gift items, head to The Courtauld Shop in a vaulted space below the building.
Stop for a drink or a bite at The Courtauld’s all-day restaurant, Art Café.
Students and those 18 and under can visit the museum for free; tickets can be bought in person or online.
The Courtauld Gallery is cashless and does not accept American Express cards.
How to get there
The Courtauld Gallery is in Somerset House. The door is to your right if using the main entrance on the Strand. Many Tube stations are nearby, including Covent Garden, Holborn, Charing Cross, Temple, and Embankment. A range of local bus lines serve the area. Taxis and rideshare services offer another easy way to get there.
When to get there
The Courtauld Gallery is open daily from morning to early evening, and the last entry is 45 minutes before closing. Note that the gallery is usually busy on weekends and for school holidays—visit at other times for a less crowded experience. In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery hosts a range of temporary exhibitions. Check the website to see what's new.
Somerset House
An architectural and historic London icon, Somerset House was once used for government offices and has been reborn as a creative hub. In addition to The Courtauld Gallery, it hosts a wide range of exhibition areas and cafés on site. Its main courtyard hosts several popular annual events, including Skate at Somerset House in winter for ice skating and the Somerset House Summer Series of concerts in summer.
Ways to explore
Plan to spend at least two hours exploring The Courtauld Gallery’s permanent collection, whether you’re visiting on your own or as part of a tour. Options for guided tours range from private introductions to The Courtauld’s holdings to London-wide explorations of artistic highlights in multiple galleries.
If you’re visiting independently, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance—or consider booking a multi-attraction pass that includes access to The Courtauld Gallery. You can buy tickets to view the permanent collection only or add temporary exhibition passes. When planning your visit, keep in mind that prices vary throughout the week.
Accessibility
The Courtauld Gallery is wheelchair accessible, with wheelchairs and walkers available upon request.
Age limits
None; youth ages 18 and under visit for free.
What to pack
If you’ve pre-purchased tickets, bring printed tickets or a confirmation email. Bring a credit or debit card, as cash is not accepted.
What to wear
Wear layered clothing for London’s changeable weather—you can leave bulky outerwear in ground-floor lockers.
Not allowed
Selfie sticks, large bags, art materials other than paper and pencil (graphite or colored)
Amenities
Wi-Fi, restrooms, small lockers, café
Address
The Courtauld Gallery is located in Somerset House, on the south side of the Strand and north of the River Thames.
Driving
Congestion fees and limited street parking mean most visitors choose to arrive by public transit, taxi, or rideshare. If you do drive, there is a paid parking lot on Parker Street.
Public transportation
The two closest tube stations are Temple (Central and District lines) and Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines). From Temple Station, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the gallery; from Charing Cross, it’s about a 10-minute walk.
Best times to visit
Visit first thing in the morning for a less crowded experience of The Courtauld Gallery, which is typically busiest from 12–3pm.
Best days to visit
The Courtauld Gallery is open daily; the quietest days are usually Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
Best months to visit
The best months to visit London are in spring and fall, with mild weather and comparatively fewer tourists. Fall foliage generally begins changing color in mid-October.
Special events
Held each October, The Courtauld Gallery’s Big Draw Festival offers visitors rare access to prints and a drawing study room.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!