Visit One of England’s Free Art Galleries
There are over 200 art galleries in England that charge absolutely nothing to visit. And some support local artists, which we think is all the nicer! You can find a list here.
Every gallery on this list keeps art accessible, breaking down barriers so all can enjoy. Check for updates, at present they are free!
Why Free Art Galleries Matter
Free art galleries don’t just pop up for fun—they fill a real need in both communities and cities across England. These spaces bring together people from all walks of life.
When art is easily available and free, it becomes part of daily life. Locals may pop in just for a few minutes, knowing they can come back whenever they like. Cost is one of the biggest barriers stopping people from enjoying art.
Free galleries also help nearby businesses. People visiting central galleries often grab lunch, eat dinner, or pop into shops around the area. More foot traffic can mean more sales for restaurants, pubs, and local stores.
National Gallery, London
Set right in the heart of Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery includes works like Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers and Turner’s dramatic landscapes.
Vincent Van Gogh only started painting age 27 (self-taught) whose original plan was to become a religious pastor. He painted every 36 hours and was so poor, he often painted new ones over the old canvases, so goodness knows how many more masterpieces are under the famous ones!
He had a tragic life, suffering from big mental health problems, eventually shooting himself dead in the chest, in a field. It’s said he only sold one painting in his lifetime, yet look how talented he was?
Manchester Art Gallery
Manchester Art Gallery blends Victorian charm with city living, where visitors can find pre-Raphaelite like Rossetti and Millais.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Right in the middle of Birmingham, this grand gallery is packed with Victorian treasures. It also features one of the best Pre-Raphaelite collections in the world.
Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool
Often called the ‘National Gallery of the North’, Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool delivers the same grand scale, but without London crowds. Just a short walk from the train station, it’s a haven for anyone keen to see amazing European and British works for free.
Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
Cambridge might be known for its university, but the Fitzwilliam Museum gives art lovers a free reason to visit. This gallery has an elegant, university feel and sits just a few streets from the city centre’s famous colleges. Includes Greek, Roman, and Egyptian relics and old master European paintings.
Invest in a National Art Pass
If you like visiting art galleries and museums, buy a National Art Pass. For around £60 (plus special deals for families and couples), this gives access to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic houses in the UK, plus 50% discount on major exhibitions.
Student Art Pass works the same, but costs just £10. The catch is that the pass is only available for limited time each year.
Accessibility and facilities
England’s major free galleries aim to be as open and inclusive as possible. You’ll find most have good wheelchair access, with lifts to all floors and plenty of space between displays. Many also offer:
- Wheelchair hire on request at reception.
- Accessible toilets close to galleries or cafés.
- Hearing loops at information desks and in lecture rooms or event spaces.
- Large print guides and tactile resources for visually impaired visitors.
