Events at the National Portrait Gallery London
The National Portrait Gallery London offers a unique, culturally rich setting for a variety of events, combining art, history, and biography in its iconic spaces. Located in the centre of London, near Trafalgar Square, the Gallery provides a blend of contemporary and classical collection spaces, creating a captivating venue for personal celebrations, receptions, and more.
With exclusive evening hire Monday to Thursday and morning events available throughout the week, the Gallery promises a unique event experience with private tours and expert insights into its prestigious Collection. From the grand details of the Victorian Galleries to the sleek Contemporary Galleries, each space offers a memorable backdrop for any event.
About the National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery in the heart of central London is home to the world’s greatest collection of portraits.
Spanning six centuries, these artworks reveal the inspiring and sometimes surprising personal stories that have shaped, and continue to shape, a nation – from global icons to local champions, national treasures to unsung heroes.
From the eminent individuals that adorn the Gallery’s walls to the dedicated team who will work with you through each stage of planning, the National Portrait Gallery is the perfect venue for your special event. The spectacular spaces available for hire offer a wide range of options from the contemporary to the classical, displaying a Collection that encompasses art, biography, history and fame.
The National Portrait Gallery has a variety of newly-refurbished and versatile spaces that can be transformed to accommodate a range of events from a grand reception to an intimate dinner, an early morning breakfast to a corporate conference. This inspirational setting will ensure your bespoke event is one to remember.
A snapshot of the National Portrait Gallery London
- Historic venue housing famous portraits from across centuries
- Variety of spaces from modern galleries to classic Victorian rooms
- Central London location with iconic views
- Expert team available to plan every detail
- Availability for exclusive hire in the evenings
Capacity
Up to
30
Sitting 
Up to
300
Standing Facilities
Spaces At This Venue
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The Ondaatje Main Hall
The Ondaatje Main Hall is the grand atrium at the Gallery’s main entrance, offering a versatile space perfect for a variety of events. This adaptable venue is ideal for branded experiences, product launches, receptions, pop-up exhibitions, and more, making it the perfect first impression for any occasion.
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Contemporary Galleries in the Weston Wing
This new Weston Wing space features top-lit galleries showcasing the Gallery’s contemporary collection. Host your event amid stunning portraits of today’s most iconic figures
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20th-Century Gallery
This light-filled space, featuring iconic faces from the 1960s to 1990s, is perfect for pre-dinner drinks or intimate receptions. Pair with the Victorian Galleries for a stunning blend of classic and contemporary settings.
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Victorian Galleries
The Victorian Galleries provide a stunning setting to host a reception or dinner among iconic figures of the era.
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17th and 18th Century Galleries
Nine interconnecting rooms offering a deep dive into British history, suited for grand dinners or large receptions.
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Gallery 18
Known for its salon-style hang, this gallery adds an air of sophistication to any seated dinner or reception.
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Tudor Galleries
An intimate space surrounded by portraits from the Gallery's earliest period, perfect for small dinners in a historical atmosphere.
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The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan
A dining space with unmatched panoramic views of London's landmarks, from Big Ben to the London Eye.
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Audrey Green & Larry’s Wing
Two unique spaces including the newly refurbished speakeasy within the old Victorian vaults and a newly restored cafe full of natural light.
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The Ondaatje Main Hall is the grand atrium at the Gallery’s main entrance, offering a versatile space perfect for a variety of events. This adaptable venue is ideal for branded experiences, product launches, receptions, pop-up exhibitions, and more, making it the perfect first impression for any occasion.
Guest Capacity
Standing: 0 - 300
This new Weston Wing space features top-lit galleries showcasing the Gallery’s contemporary collection. Host your event amid stunning portraits of today’s most iconic figures
Guest Capacity
Standing: 0 - 80Sitting: 0 - 30
This light-filled space, featuring iconic faces from the 1960s to 1990s, is perfect for pre-dinner drinks or intimate receptions. Pair with the Victorian Galleries for a stunning blend of classic and contemporary settings.
Guest Capacity
Standing: 0 - 80
The Victorian Galleries provide a stunning setting to host a reception or dinner among iconic figures of the era.
Guest Capacity
Standing: 0 - 200Sitting: 0 - 120
Nine interconnecting rooms offering a deep dive into British history, suited for grand dinners or large receptions.
Known for its salon-style hang, this gallery adds an air of sophistication to any seated dinner or reception.
An intimate space surrounded by portraits from the Gallery's earliest period, perfect for small dinners in a historical atmosphere.
A dining space with unmatched panoramic views of London's landmarks, from Big Ben to the London Eye.
Location
Venue Testimonials
The place is located perfectly in one of the most touristy areas of the city. It has 4 floors of art and the 5th floor is a restaurant with astonishing views of the city.
Svetoslav K.
The sheer amount of artwork in here is staggering. There are portraits done in paint, sculpture and photos and all done to the highest standards. The portraits in this collection cover hundreds of years and show not only key moments in history but also in pop culture. All the staff are very friendly and welcoming.
Theresa G.
Great gallery with many famous and history-making faces to spot. As it was my wife's birthday we dined in the rooftop restaurant. Very good service with delicious food. Booking recommended....ask for a window seat for the great skyline view of London with many notable landmarks in view.
Simon C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Event hire starts from £2,500 for breakfasts, with reception and dinner options ranging up to £14,000 depending on the space and time.
Capacities vary by space, with options from intimate gatherings for 30 seated guests in the Contemporary Galleries, to standing receptions for up to 300 guests in the Main Hall and 17th & 18th-century galleries.
Events can take place Monday to Thursday evenings from 6:45 pm onwards, with morning events available from 8 am to 10 am throughout the week.
Nearby hotels for guests at the National Portrait Gallery London include the hub by Premier Inn London Covent Garden hotel, Assembly Leicester Square, Zedwell Piccadilly Circus and more.
No parking is available onsite, but a public car park is nearby on the corner of Whitcomb Street and Orange Street.
