What makes the National Portrait Gallery different from the National Gallery next door?

The National Portrait Gallery specialises exclusively in portraiture of historically important and famous British figures spanning over 400 years since 1856. Rather than landscapes or still life, you're studying the faces and stories of people who shaped Britain—from monarchs to explorers.

Will I learn about all of Henry VIII's wives on this tour?

Yes. The tour specifically explores Henry VIII and the fates of all six wives through their portraits, so you'll get the full story of his court and relationships.

Is this tour suitable for first-time London visitors?

Absolutely. The expert guide contextualises each portrait within British history, making it accessible whether you're new to the period or already familiar. It's a great complement to visits to the Tower of London or Hampton Court Palace.

How much walking and standing is involved?

Expect moderate activity over 3 hours—you'll be moving between gallery rooms and standing while viewing portraits. Comfortable shoes are essential.

What's included in the EUR 1,156 price?

This is the tour price; it includes your 3-hour guided experience with an expert guide. Admission to the National Portrait Gallery is included. Specific inclusions and exclusions will be detailed in your booking confirmation.

Can I visit the National Portrait Gallery independently after the tour?

This depends on your tour package terms. Confirm with your supplier at booking whether the tour allows additional self-guided time, or if it's guided-only for the full 3 hours.

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National Portrait Gallery Tour

(5)

London, United Kingdom

Cultural ToursBus & Minivan ToursCity Tours

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About this activity

Explore four centuries of British portraiture and power at one of London's most underrated galleries, guided by an expert through iconic faces from Tudor monarchs to Renaissance adventurers. This 3-hour immersive tour brings historical figures to life, from Henry VIII's shifting court to Elizabeth I's golden age.

The gallery will be closed from mid-2020 to (planned) spring 2023 for a major refurbishment. During this time, parts of the collection will be displayed around the UK in a series of exhibitions and collaborations, with other international loan exhibitions.

This is a three-hour tour with an expert tour guide. Virtually hidden away behind the National Gallery, The National Portrait Gallery (NPG) is an art gallery in London housing a collection of portraits of historically important and famous British people for over four hundred years opening in 1856 where its first acquisition was possibly the oldest portrait of William Shakespeare. Find out more about the people who shaped Britain: meet Henry VIII and discover the fate of each of his six wives and Cardinal Wolsey and Thomas Cromwell, who won and lost power under him. We then visit the court of Queen Elizabeth I, and her favourite men Raleigh and Drake who plundered the Spanish and created England's first colonies.

Highlights

✓Meet Henry VIII and uncover the fates of his six wives through their portraits
✓Discover rare early Shakespeare portrait, among the gallery's oldest acquisitions
✓Trace power struggles under Cardinal Wolsey and Thomas Cromwell
✓Explore Queen Elizabeth I's court and her favourite explorers Raleigh and Drake
✓Learn how portraiture documented Britain's most influential figures across 400+ years
✓Expert-led insights into the stories behind historically significant British figures

Insider tips

★The gallery is tucked discreetly behind the National Gallery on Trafalgar Square—easy to miss, so arrive early to find the entrance
★Portraits are arranged thematically and chronologically; ask your guide to prioritise Tudor and Elizabethan sections if time is tight
★Photography policies vary by section; confirm with your guide before shooting

Good to know

•Tour duration is 3 hours; wear comfortable shoes as you'll be standing and walking between galleries
•Meeting point and logistics details will be confirmed upon booking
•Groups may be limited to ensure quality interaction with the guide; arrive 10–15 minutes early

Who it's for

History enthusiasts fascinated by Tudor and Elizabethan EnglandArt lovers seeking lesser-known London galleries away from tourist massesCultural travellers interested in how portraiture documents power and influenceBritish heritage fans keen to explore the faces behind the monarchy

Best time to visit

Visit during late morning or early afternoon (10am–2pm) to avoid peak crowds. Autumn and winter months typically see fewer visitors than summer peak season.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

James J.

Mar 2026

our guide Sofia was brilliant and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight, and honestly better than the tour we did in Marrakech last year.

Ben F.

Sep 2025

So nice this one, the bit at the end nobody expects was amazing and Ana the guide explain everything good. Better than Paris for sure, we go again!

Paul E.

Aug 2025

our guide Aiko was brilliant and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight, and went last tuesday.

Nick L.

Jul 2025

our guide Luca really knew their stuff and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight ... First thing in the morning so it wasnt too busy. Blew our phuket one out of the water, and perfect for first-timers, and came away with 200+ photos. Would book again no question, 10/10

Amara R.

Apr 2025

our guide Fatima sorted everything for us and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight, and miles ahead of a similar tour we tried in Athens.

from€1,168.59€1,164.78/ person

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