An Art lover’s trip on the Thames

London is an amazing city for Art lovers. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a lover of ~Modern Art, the Impressionists, Surrealism, Renaissance, Classical, sculpture, ceramics or Conceptual, there’s always something worth seeing. And many works by the world’s most famous artists are in galleries that have free entry.

Public sculpture

You don’t even need to go into a gallery to find beautiful sculptures on the South Bank, which has become somewhat of a sculpture park in its own right. From the statue of Boudicca and her daughters at Westminster Pier to the works that have become such an integral part of the South Bank Centre, you might not even notice they’re there! So keep your eyes peeled for the unusual as well as the classic.

Hayward Gallery

The Hayward Gallery (nearest pier: Festival) is one of London’s major exhibition spaces. It is currently showing Space Shifters, an exhibition of works created over the last 50 years that creates illusions designed to challenge our perceptions. Space Shifters is on until 6th January 2019 – it has proved to be very popular, so booking is advised.

Tate Modern

One of the most famous Art galleries in the UK, the Tate Modern (nearest pier: Bankside) is famously housed in a decommissioned power station overlooking the river and the Millennium Bridge. The permanent exhibition is free to view, and there are always a number of different exhibitions held there, including commissioned installations for the huge Turbine Hall.

Oxo Tower galleries

If you’re looking for new talent, drop in to the galleries at the Oxo Tower (equidistant between Festival and Bankside piers). The Bargehouse, gallery@oxo, G11 and Courtyard & Platform often host free exhibitions by up and coming artists.

Courtauld Gallery

Sadly, the Courtauld Gallery at Somerset House (nearest pier: Embankment) is closed for major refurbishment for two years. The good news for Impressionist lovers is that 40 of the collection’s Impressionist paintings have been loaned to the National Gallery which is just a 10 minute walk from Embankment Pier.

If you’re planning a trip to some of London’s fabulous Art galleries, or want to explore the incredible works of sculpture along the South Bank, we understand how hard this can be on your feet. So why not treat yourself to a Circular Cruises hop-on hop-off ticket as a great way of putting your feet up while you travel to your next destination. Click here to book now.