Peering through the grand entrance, imagine the stories held within Guildhall Art Gallery. Established in 1886, the Guildhall Art Gallery aimed to be a treasure trove of art for the capital. It houses the City of London Corporation’s vast collection. This collection includes over 4500 works. Over 1300 of these are oil paintings. These paintings date from 1670 to the present day.
The Guildhall Art Gallery is in the heart of the City of London. It quickly became a place for world-famous masterpieces. It also featured works by great artists. The gallery is particularly strong in Victorian art. It boasts many Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces.
Look out for Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s La Ghirlandata. It is a stunning portrait of his muse, Jane Morris. This painting underwent a year-long conservation in 2019. Another highlight is John Singleton Copley’s The Defeat of the Floating Batteries at Gibraltar. This monumental oil painting stretches over two floors. It is one of the largest in Britain.
History enthusiasts will love the ceremonial paintings. They will also enjoy the topographical works. These depict London’s evolution over the centuries. The display on The City focuses on economics, money, and business.
Beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery lies another treasure. Here, you can find the ruins of London’s Roman Amphitheatre. Crowds once gathered here. They watched wild animal fights, public executions, and gladiatorial combats. The original circular walls were rediscovered in 1988. Archaeologists were working on the site of the new Guildhall Art Gallery building. The amphitheater was lost for centuries.
Admission to Guildhall Art Gallery is free. Booking a ticket is recommended. Enhance your visit by joining a free guided tour. Tours are available Tuesday to Sunday at 12.15pm and 1.15pm. Each tour lasts 30-45 minutes. You can also explore the gallery using Smartify on your device.
Lockers are available during opening hours. A refundable £1 deposit is required. The cloakroom is generally unattended except during special events. The Guildhall Art Gallery aims to make access enjoyable for everyone.
Before you leave, remember the layers of history. The Guildhall Art Gallery offers art and Roman ruins. It invites you to explore London’s rich heritage.