Royal Academy of Arts

Combine a quick visit to the Royal Academy of Arts with exploration of other central landmarks on a city tour, or take advantage of free tours offered by the academy for deeper insight. True art appreciators can dedicate a good few hours to perusing the free-to-enter main collection, or even treat themselves to exhibition access. Keen-eyed visitors may recognize the Burlington House premises from theSherlock Holmes movies, and can learn more on a tour of filming locations.

• The Royal Academy of Arts collection is a must-see for arts enthusiasts.

• Access to the main collection is free, but exhibitions incur a charge.

• Book ahead to secure entry to specific exhibitions.

• The Royal Academy of Arts is fully accessible, and offers an inclusive program for disabled guests.

Burlington House and Gardens lie equidistant between Piccadilly Circus, Green Park, Oxford Circus, and Bond Street. Several local buses serve nearby Regent Street, and the Royal Academy of Arts has its own stop on Old Bond Street. Hop-on hop-off services also stop closeby.

The Royal Academy of Arts is open every day except Christmas and the New Year holidays, and closes late every Friday. Begin the weekend with an evening of dinner and drinks in the historic premises, or avoid the crowds by arriving early on a weekday.

You can’t wander far in the capital without stumbling across a dedicated arts space. In addition to iconic venues such as the Royal Academy of Arts, Tate, and National Gallery, London is home to many alternative spaces that provide insight into the city’s diverse culture. Head into the suburbs to discover highlights such as Peckham’s Bold Tendencies, Hackney’s Guest Projects, or Bethnal Green’s Resistance Gallery.