The Wallace Collection is a free museum in a beautiful townhome near Manchester Square. I visited with my husband about two weeks ago to see their current temporary exhibit (more on that below), and we had a great visit. The museum is located in the former townhouse of the Seymore family - the Marquesses of Hertford. The museum is named after Sir Richard Wallace, who built a collection of fine and decorative arts from the 1th to the 19th centuries along, with the Marquesses of Hertford. The collection opened to public view in 1900. The townhouse itself is gorgeous. From the second I walked in and saw the staircase in the Entrance Hall, I knew I was in for a treat. With several gorgeous rooms, the museum is worth visiting to see a beautifully preserved 19th century London townhome. Each room has beautiful chandeliers, furniture, paintings, sculptures, and more. The museum also has a collection of European arms and armor, which take several rooms to display. In addition to their permanent collections, they also show temporary exhibitions. Right now and through November 29, their exhibit is "Winston Churchill: The Painter," which is the first major retrospective of Sir Winston Churchill's paintings since his death and brings together more than 50 of his works (half of which come from private collections). While visiting the museum is free, there is a fee to visit the temporary exhibit (20 pounds for adults, 18 if you buy online ahead of time). The exhibit was incredible and well worth a visit. I learned a lot about Churchill that I didn't know prior to the exhibit (most of what I knew about him concerned his political leadership), and I found many of his paintings quite beautiful and moving. Whether you're visiting for a temporary exhibit or just to see the townhouse and its permanent collection, the Wallace Collection is incredible. It's a special museum in London, well worth including on an itinerary for a trip to London. read more

See all

I went to see the exhibition of Churchill paintings. It was absolutely stunning! It was well curated, and the audio guide really gave you a sense of importance of painting in his life. I walked through the rest of the collection, which is almost overwhelming. There is a lot to see there. You really do need to use the audio guide, because there is so much art in a small space. I also appreciated the staff. They were helpful, without being intrusive. One of the things I enjoy the most was that people there were truly interested in art. They stopped and looked. Unlike the crowd at the National Gallery, which just went up to a painting, took a photo, and left without ever even looking at it. read more

The Wallace Collection - Museums Near Me - London, XGL

Wonderful collection of European paintings and decorative objects. Whole gallery were well displayed and easy to navigate. The best part of the collection was, to my taste, European weapons/armory on the first floor. This section is huge and ranging from Middle Ages to late 18th century. The gun selection is exquisite. If you are studying armory, this is a place to visit. Admission is free and accessible. You can easily spend two to three hours wondering and enjoy the atmosphere. Staff are helpful and willing to help. There is a restaurant/cafe to refresh after long day of sightseeing. read more

See all

Great hidden gem! Visiting here is free. This guy has such a large collection of art and artifacts that he could color code his ancient vases. "The Swing" is such a beautiful painting. Most of the artwork is from the Victorian era, so if paintings of rich people from their day with ruffled collars is your thing ... this is the place for you. There are other amazing pieces and there was a modern art exhibit happening on the ground floor. Just when you think you are done, there is an entire room full of medieval armor behind the store. Pro-tip - the bathrooms are amazing and free. And finally, don't accidentally lean on Marie Antoinette's chest of drawers like I did. To be fair, I don't Marie would have lost her head about it! read more

The Wallace Collection - Maces, swords, guns and daggers! - Museums Near Me - London, XGL

See all

If you love art, this collection is not to be missed. Housed in a lovely old home, there is so much to see that I had to return two days in a row. From old master paintings to beautiful European furniture, everything is in excellent shape and gorgeous. They offer some short talks on works of art. I took advantage of one 15 minute presentation and it was well worth it. There is a nice cafe available should you need a drink or small meal. Entrance is free, donations accepted. read more

If you love art and history, then you should add the Wallace Collection to your London itinerary. You will find rooms filled with paintings, sculptures, armoiries, and more. After our tour, we decided to have lunch outside, and one of my daughters opted for tea. The food wasn't the best and the service was slow but the atmosphere was relaxing and special. read more

See all

I have to say that London really has some pretty awesome art museums, such as this one. Actually, it is also free, which is really quite cool. I believe that the contents of the museum, and I suspect the house as well, belonged to some socialite who no doubt, upon his death, decided to leave his collection to the public in perpetuity, which I have to say is pretty awesome. Then again, you can't really take it with you when you are gone, and who cares about the kids (especially if they happen to be trust fund babies). Anyway, yeah, pretty awesome museum, and pretty awesome collection as well. read more

See all

A wonderful place to browse and take time out from shopping in London . It's free but please make a donation to keep places like this going

Beautiful gallery with a lots of different rooms on display to view. However, I unfortunately had afternoon tea at their restaurant which was a mistake. They service was terrible! Visit the collection but avoid their restaurant! read more

The Wallace Collection - Museums Near Me - London, XGL

See all

This beautiful - and free! - museum in Marylebone is worth your time if you love art history! The collection is full of paintings, sculptures, figurines, furniture, and even weaponry. My favorite piece was Fragonard's 'The Swing'! An hour and a half was sufficient time for us to see everything. read more

See all

If you love oil paintings and basically the "gilded era, COME HERE!!! Each room is full of information and beauty. I can't believe I never knew about this museum in the MIDDLE of London! It's free to go and you can donate if you like. I accidentally joined a tour when I came into the first room and she was great! I can't remember her name... but she's an older Asian lady with a British accent. There was one room when there was a crazy younger lady who made me take off my small backpack which I felt was more dangerous with me holding it as I can swing it and hit something by accident... Bathrooms are outside towards the cafe but down the stairs. Stairs are kind of narrow so be careful! I feel like even though I was there for a while, there's so much to learn. I did learn way more during the tour about specific items then I did overall the whole museum. Might have to go back and tour on my own next time :) read more

What a find. A private mansion converted into a museum. Very nice collection of 17th and 18th century oil paintings. Super quiet and not crowded like the V&A or the British museum. So nice not having to fight the crowds. I recommend the guided tours as some of the gun artifacts and art works don't have notes explaining the items displayed. Free except for special exhibits. read more

Great collection with fancy arts and armory. They have a large amount of high quality paints and China, as well as weapons. Their afternoon tea in the garden was great at a good price too! Around 20 for a good tasting set per person was well worth it. Love this place and would be happy to come back again for both their collections and afternoon tea. read more

See all

I wish I knew more about art. How to appreciate it. How to know what's good and what's not. Sadly, my American education didn't get into the classics. So while a few of the names rang bells in the back of my mind, I know there was so much more here that I didn't appreciate. Titan, Rembrandt, Boucher, Canaletto. These are names I recognized. Even my obtuseness still noticed some of the fantastic paintings and the sculptures were amazing works of art. And don't forget about the stunning tables, dressers, wardrobes and chairs. Ruben's fantastic Rainbow Landscape (a full-on rainbow!). The classic Laughing Cavalier (painted in 1624). There's almost an overload of wonderful works of art. Oh, and when you've had enough classic portraits and landscapes, wander through the armouries. Daggers and swords, dating back to the 15th century. Pistols designed for Louis XIV. Several full suits of armor. Fully dressed horses in armor. All sorts of amazing pieces of war machinery that simply don't exist anywhere else. There's also a small gift shop with the usual trinkets and such. I nabbed a handful of postcards but they also had books, prints, even little mint cases with prints of the art. Taking pictures is permitted, as long as you don't use your flash. There was too much glass and too many bright windows in the armory rooms to get good images, but all the artwork rooms came out awesome! Oh, where is all of this stuff? A two block walk from the shopping district of Oxford Street! And how much to enter? Nothing! No a single penny (though you really should donate if you can). read more

See all

Another gem of the free museums. I totally dug the Wallace Collection. Five generations of collectors contributed to the works of art, furniture and armaments you will find here. The "townhouse" as described by Lady (Mrs. Mia?) Wallace seemed to me like a mansion that was part art gallery, part showpiece and part arsenal. The house is beautiful and there is a popular courtyard restaurant in the middle that looks like a perfect place for lunch or tea. The top floor had most of the paintings and artwork, but it really wasn't my thing and I breezed through it. The ground floor consisted of elaborately decorated showrooms and four rooms of weaponry. This was where I spent most of my time. The armories were quite impressive. I geeked out a bit wandering from the Oriental collection to the different European armories that spanned the ages. I loved seeing the knights on horseback and checking out all of the different collections of daggers, swords, battle axes, crossbows and rifles. Other museums, that you'll likely pay for, have a fraction of the weapons you'll find here. read more

See all

Amazing collection of art by one man in his house. Rembrandt Valesquez unbelievable armor on and on and on. Don't miss it. The Flemish art flourished because they had a bourgeninh middle class that could afford o buy art The restaurant is tasty lOvely well lit and reasonable read more

See all

This afternoon tea was pretty good! It look a while for tea and food to be served, but I also came with a large group. The room where the food is served is lovely, and there is art and items to see while you wait for your table to be ready. The sandwiches were ok, but the scones and desserts were fantastic! They brought seconds of the desserts and tea when we asked. read more

The Wallace Collection - Afternoon tea - Museums Near Me - London, XGL

Private mansion now a National Museum. The collections acquired throughout generations of the family is overwhelming. One can only glance into the house, concentrate in a couple of items or areas and keep moving throughout the mansion. There are plenty of sitting opportunities to languish Your eyesight and contemplate the art pieces. Funny how the eye and senses are sharpen among so much beauty. On a crowded wall of painting, one in particular caught my eye and I thought that is a Velazquez paint; sure enough. When I approached it to look closer, his paint. I was pleased with myself. The same with all the Masters. One will spot them in the crowded walls. The armor collection pretty impressive. There are display items to try on. Lol! There is a cafe/restaurant on site. I chose the restaurant. The menu has variety of Entrees, First Plate, Sides, Desserts. Wine, Teas, Coffees served as well. The Soup of Green Apples was delightful. The "crisp" pork belly(was not crisp) was tasty. It came with roasted Butter Squash However, service very slow, snail pace. I needed the rest. Need to go back. read more

The Wallace Collection - Opulence - Museums Near Me - London, XGL

The knights and armour are a great sight to see when you are visiting London! The giftshop looks nice, the items look like they are worth their price! The Restaurant: Food: Good! When I went to the restaurant, many things were sold out, which is disappointing, but I found something to eat ( The chocolate Cake, I had no other choice.) Service: Great! They are very helpful! Atmosphere: It is under a huge Dome in the middle of the old Mansion The comfort: Great as well! The art and sculptures were very interesting! The Restaurant is 5 Stars spot on! Not too crowded either! Please Vote for this review, and follow me ( I will follow you back!) This guy Richard Wallace was a huge collector... read more

See all

The art is lovely; the tea experience was terrible. At booking, you're required to put in any food allergies. When I arrived I had to wait to be helped for some time. Finally the woman who came up front read off our party's allergies (one to shellfish and one to peanuts). She told me I shouldn't eat their bread or their cakes. There are no peanuts listed on the menu so I asked for clarification. She said the kitchen cannot guarantee anything. She wanted to know if I was prepared for an allergic reaction "do you have something with you if something happens?". She then called the kitchen! By this time, it's past our reservation time and there is a que forming behind me. She gets off and tells me that I will get fruit and not the real desserts. We proceed to a table and no one waits on us for probably 15 minutes. When the waitress does come she doesn't offer us the drink options nor the scone options listed on the menu. Sure enough my tray comes out without any desserts and my friend(who is allergic to shell fish is still served a salmon sandwich). The waitress' reply to the news that she couldn't eat it was, "you didn't say anything to me!" Hmmm yes we did-when we booked the reservation!!! The kitchen wouldn't give me the desserts - even tho there are no peanut ingredients = the SAME RISK I take eating anywhere. My tea should have been discounted since I only received a little pile of fruit. Also, I tasted all three desserts and surprise-i'm still alive. Our waitress never came to check on us, it took forever to find her to ask for the bill or to get her to come back to take our payment as she was In the bar chatting and making herself a cup of coffee. Disappointed. read more

Such a beautiful place. Highly recommend if you love art history and little bit of fashion at the moment with manolo blahnik's shoe display read more

See all

Afternoon tea! please note that most of their menu items have traces of or may contain nuts. The chef was accommodating and I was very pleased, thank you! The fresh jam and avocado/tomato finger sandwiches had me dancing in my seat. read more

See all

The Wallace Collection is one of my favourite small museums in London. It's free to visit and has a treasure trove of masters with just a small influx of tourists. No pushing and shoving to view the Reubens and Rembrandts. It also houses a large collection of Fragonards & Bouchers. The ground floor has a huge collection of miniatures and armour / weaponry from around the world. And if you need any other reason to visit, it has to be their porcelain collection. All of this housed in a private house that is still decorated the same way (think the lovely small museums in Amsterdam) They have a gorgeous cafe out back (in the centre of the 3 storied building) that feels very glamorous. I'd advise heading upstairs to view the art first before exploring the downstairs, so you can pace yourself better. read more

What an amazing place, and I can't believe it's taken me years to pay a visit to the Wallace Collection. There is just so much culture to be had in London and I tend to favour the more contemporary end of the art market ... Still, this collection of masterpieces is well worth a visit. And museums in stately homes have come a long way ... on a "First Friday" event the house was buzzing with people, music and entertainment - making the rooms come back to life. Events such as this must be a major money spinner for the museum. Unfortunately, bar staff seemed unprepared for the sheer number of visitors, and it just seemed ridiculous to have to queue twice, once to order and again to pay for your drinks. Not very sophisticated. Perfectly understandable that you are not allowed to walk about with your drink, but rather annoying when you've paid more than a tenner for a glass of bubbly and David McAlmont is about to hit a high note in one of the upstairs galleries ... Now that I've discovered what gems can be found here, I am determined to return on a quieter day and have a good look at the paintings and other precious collections displayed in the multicoloured flock-papered rooms. read more

The Wallace Collection - Friday late at the Wallace - Museums Near Me - London, XGL

See all

The Wallace Collection is a national museum in a historic London townhouse - there are 25 galleries that feature French 18th century painting, furniture, porcelain, and armoury. The large Drawing Room had some beautiful furniture pieces that were created by Andre-Charles Boulle, and seeing some of the portraits by Van Dyck in the Great Gallery was great. When I visited, there was an exhibition on Rembrandt's etchings that was very wonderful to see. +Van Dyck pieces read more

The Wallace collection provides an opportunity to view the former townhouse of the Seymour family and view a large number of paintings, furniture, arms & armour, porcelain and Old Master paintings from the 18c. Sadly, this was my least favorite museum in London. We participated in part of a tour but found the pace slow and too much detail. Unless you are especially keen to see furniture, porcelain and armour, I'd recommend giving this museum as miss. read more

I made my way to the Wallace collection on the recommendation of a friend who had lived in London and who works in the art history field - so happy I listened to her! The Wallace collection is free and has an extensive collection of french and Dutch artworks. I loved the mansion housing the collection, I loved the presentation of a lot of the pieces made with sensitive materials under the leather flaps in the glass cases. I felt transported in the house, before I knew it 90 minutes had passed and they were closing! I still didn't get to see everything! I hope to return one day soon. read more

See all

London and its free museums... I mean how lucky we are to have all this culture available (as the wifi connection too) in such a great locations. If you are into old houses or armors, then you would love this place. They do have also a cafe located under a glass ceiling patio that it is worth a visit. You can spend 20 minutes or 3 hours over here so it is a perfect place to hide from the rain in style if you are in this area read more

The Wallace Collection - Museums Near Me - London, XGL

See all

Situated close to the shopping area of Oxford Street, The Wallace Collection is easy to overlook, especially alongside the better known destinations in London such as the National Gallery and the British Museum. But that would be a pity, because the Wallace Collection is both more manageable (and less crowded) than the larger museums, and of very high quality in its own right. The main attraction is the collection of paintings, including works by Titian, Rembrandt, Hals (including The Laughing Cavalier) and Velázquez. But the collection of French furniture and porcelain is regarded by some as the best outside France, and it has an exceptional collection of arms and armour, from both Europe and Asia, spanning the period from the 10th to the 19th century. An excellent place to spend a quiet afternoon. read more

Pure art museums can wear me out--the National Gallery, the Louvre, the Prada, whatever, it's just a little bit much after a while. Places like the Wallace are different. The Wallace was a private collection, still displayed in the owner's house, something like the way it was when they lived in the house. To me, this is a much more interesting experience, to see the art and the house and imagine the people living there. Now these were ridiculously wealthy people living there of course, so I'm not saying I can relate from my own experience at all! My point is that I am enjoying the art while also getting a bit of lifestyles of the rich and famous (and long dead). Worth doing! read more

After his adventures in the world, Sir Wallace decided he wanted to turn a new leaf. He decided to show his nobility by exposing his amassed wealth and installed items acquired in a grand gesture of display. No doubt it pales in comparison to the British Museum. Its collection is vast from the renaissance and post then on. For this place is truly, a lot to learn about the fine arts and classical periods. Its displayed very well and surprisingly you get a bit claustrophobic after spending a few hours there. When one's eye is not used to too much ornamentation; it gives a lack of element of surprise. There is a solution to this my dears. The open tea house in the courtyard; the heart of the mansion. Oh its beauuuutiful to the eye and surprisingly modern contemporary but still works with the overall element of space. Good service as one would expect in a semi-formal setting. And very well kept, for this place is a must visit to revive your senses in the classical arts. For those pursuing the academia in art and crafts; education talks and seminars including workshops are a constant attraction for you. Keep checking the website for more details. Open seven days a week spare a day for the Wallace Collection, will you. read more

See all

My favourite London museum, because of its amazing quality and intimate feel. Where else can you get so close to Rembrandts. Where else do you find more of Marie Antionette's furniture and paintings than even in Versailles? And where else can you relax in a glorious quiet courtyard restaurant a within a short walk from Oxford St? read more

See all

Superb. One of the great free art collections in London. I will never tire of visiting this place (It was my third time!). There is so much to see: *tons* of wonderful paintings, lot and lots of historic weapons and armor, coins, chinaware, sculptures, precious furniture. Every time you visit you will find new objects that you missed before. And it costs nothing (donation recommended!). Conveniently located in Marylebone (a short walk from Baker Street tube station: Don't visit Madame Toussaud's - visit THIS place! - *and* the Royal Academy of Music Museum!), and open from 10 a.m. every day. There are audio guides and guided tours, too, and a shop that includes several publications exclusively focusing on the different aspects of The Wallace Collection. Staff are friendly and helpful. The "courtyard" café/restaurant is very nice, too. There are several temporary exhibits (don't miss the -1 floor!) and special events, so check their calendar! Just have a look at my photos. Did I mention it's free? read more

See all

Amazing collection in central London - Marylebone area. A huge collection of furniture, famous paintings and objects, armour and weapons. And all of these for free. Allow more than a half day to see everything. One of the must places to visit in London if you like impressive ceilings, chandeliers, expensive curtains and furniture. read more

See all

The collection of armour and weaponry here was impressive and fascinating. I spent an hour alone looking at the intricacy of the collected pieces. After wandering and observing the collection for about 2.5 hours, I took a seat at the restaurant for afternoon tea. The hostess in the front was so friendly and attentive. Because I was visiting from NYC, she gave me tips on where to explore around the city. I was very happy with the relaxing ambiance- diners had a great view of the sky due to the glass ceiling. Afternoon tea was a great price; even with an added glass of fizz. I enjoyed the cucumber and dill & the curry chicken sandwiches the most and also really loved the scones. They were perfectly moist, though, I do wish there was clotted cream on the side. The sweets were a little *too* sweet for me, but overall, I was very happy with the selection and the experience. read more

My absolute favorite museum in all of London. The Wallace Collection houses a stunning variety of French Rococo art and furniture, which are all placed beautifully throughout the entire two-story building. They also have a collection of medieval artifacts (armory, swords and such). Reminded me of the Shakespearean age, and in my most recent visit this past year, I kept thinking of GOT. It's a smaller museum, slightly removed from the main road (Oxford St) and sits among a slew of quaint residential homes, which makes it all the more unassuming and unique. read more

A free national museum displaying superb works of art in an historic London town house. The collection was acquired principally in the 19th century by the 3rd and 4th Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, the illegitimate son of the 4th Marquess. The 28 rooms, many recently refurbished with elaborate gilding & wall silks, present collections of French 18th-century painting, furniture and porcelain (many once owned by Madame de Pompadour and Queen Marie-Antoinette) together with paintings by Titian, Canaletto, Rembrandt and Gainsborough, Hals' 'The Laughing Cavalier' and Fragonard's 'The Swing', four armouries and wonderful Renaissance treasures. Dine in the beautiful glazed courtyard restuarant. read more

See all

The Wallace collection is a lovely little gem of an art gallery located in Manchester Square that was once the palatial town house of the late Lady Wallace. Upon entering, I am reminded of the Frick Museum in New York and even more-so of the Musee d'Jacques Andre in Paris, perhaps due to the fact that much of the collection is French. I am someone who does not appreciate art from the 17th and 18th centuries, however I found my time spent perusing the three floors of this collection to have a calming, rejuvenating effect. There is a peacefulness here from the moment you step in the door, and it draws you in, beckoning you to linger. The environment is tranquil, the decor sumptuous, the furnishings decadent, the art subtle and nuanced. The contemporary viewer may not recognize that some of the paintings were highly controversial in their day, but many of them were. Rather, they seem innocuous and charming, innocent and proper. The individual pieces in this collection are each exquisite. From the delicate Sevres porcelain, to the Riesener secretaire, to the Boule wardrobes, even the paintings...many from the French, Spanish, and Dutch masters...are all truly extraordinary works. There is also a collection of fine European and Asian armoury that seemed to capture the attention of many of the male visitors. Most of it appeared quite decorative with inlaid stones and fine metals, appearing more appropriate for a triumphal parade rather than a proper battle. In truth, the Wallace Collection is worth every moment of your time spent here. If you have the opportunity, steal away for an hour, or three, surround yourself in the decadent luxury of another time, and perhaps enjoy a leisurely full breakfast or afternoon tea at the Wallace Restaurant, set amidst the atrium in the courtyard. For me, this is now a *must visit* for every trip to London from here forward, no matter the season. TIP: Even the chef is French, so be sure to splurge and try the foie gras if you dine at the Wallace Restaurant. read more

People love to give London a hard time- personally, I think it's a bit of a cop out. Yes, it's crowded. Yes, it's smoggy. Yes, you'll be charged £5.40 for the privilege of standing under a sweaty man's armpit for 55mins on what should have been a quick trip between Angel and Tottenham Court Road. Still, when you trip up over wonders like The Wallace Collection it's all worth it. Located just behind Oxford Street and Selfridges this little museum truly is a diamond in the rough! Housing art from the 17th and 18th centuries it's a tranquil, stunning building to take in old masterpieces. Rembrandt, Titan, Canaletto...they're all here and better still, you don't have to wrestle with the hoards to see them! If you're planning a visit make sure you time it for the free guided tour (3 o'clock most days). The woman that took us around really knew her stuff and had a great sense of humour to boot! Currently showing at the Wallace Collection is the 'Treasures of the Black Death' exhibition- a collection of medieval gold and silver hords hidden by Jewish families during their persecution at the time of the plague. Although the exhibition is small, it's really impressive and the organisers have smart enough to provide visitors with magnifying glasses. This little touch gives you the chance to really appreciate the intricacies of the jewellery and coins. Afternoon tea fans make a note, the atrium cafe is beautiful and I'm told they do cakes like no other. Unfortunately I missed out this time but like a moth to a flame, an Evey to cake is a force not to be reckoned with and I know I'll be back. Well recommended for a visit any time you're getting those London blues. read more

It is sensual. I met Marie-Antoinette in a consumed talk to share her love of fine things. Charcoal & drawing paper gave us the delight of revisiting old friends in the Collection. I was enlightened by the artist in residence at the little draw workshop. My favourite is the small drawing room, where Watteau's music party is on :) Rembrandt's Artist's Son also draws me in where the intimate encounter happens. Many cupids are flying around... Love conquers all. Against my intuition, Boucher's 2 large paintings, the rising of the sun and the setting of the sun set the public tune for the Wallace collection, combining the delicate Frick Collection in New York and the lavish Newport mansions. The stunning courtyard restaurant is a good place to take visitors out for lunch or afternoon tea. Very French! read more