Why the National Gallery should be on your summer to-do list this year

Whether you’re a family visiting London and looking for something to do, or you’re local and in need of a budget-friendly activity, we’ve found just the thing. 

The National Gallery in London will soon launch their free festival of art, which has been designed specifically with families in mind. The event will consist of two parts to explore: first, admire artworks created by children from across the country in the Take One Picture exhibition. Then, little hands can get creative with Summer on the Square, where your DC can create their own piece of artwork to take home.

The world-renowned museum - home to art from the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, da Vinci and Rembrandt - will be welcoming young artists and art enthusiasts alike every day from 1st August to 1st September, 2024, and we reckon it’s worth adding to your family’s summer plans. 

What to expect at the National Gallery this summer

The main attraction is the Gallery’s Take One Picture exhibition, which will be hosted outside on Trafalgar Square as part of the free festival of art. Here you can marvel at artworks created by children of all ages from across the country. Not only is this a great opportunity for your DC to see what their peers are capable of, but they may even get inspired to create their own masterpieces, which leads us onto the second part.

Summer on the Square will see Trafalgar Square transform into a hub of creativity. This free daily programme will offer creative sessions and activities designed to spark yours and your DC’s imagination and encourage artistic expression. 

Families can expect to enjoy: 

• Drop-in studio sessions open to all ages and abilities

• Opportunities to create their own artwork to take home

• A chance to collaborate with other families visiting

• A vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that celebrates creativity. 

And the best part? All activities are completely free and open to everyone. Just remember, spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's worth arriving early to secure your spot.

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Why is it worth visiting the National Gallery? 

This London attraction is committed to making art accessible to everyone, and is open 361 days a year and free of charge. So, it’s an ideal destination for families looking to explore art without breaking the bank. 

And while the kids are busy creating, parents can take turns exploring the Gallery’s impressive collection. From Renaissance masterpieces to Impressionist wonders, there's something to captivate every art lover. In fact, the museum’s world-class art collection houses Western European paintings from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, da Vinci, and Rembrandt. 

Other reasons you should add the National Gallery to your to-do list this summer include:

• Educational value, as the museum offers a journey through art history and provides insights into different periods, styles and cultural contexts

• It’s a central location and situated on Trafalgar Square, so it’s easily accessible and can be combined with other London attractions 

• Family-friendly activities designed to make art engaging for children and families 

• Inspiring atmosphere of the grand building and curated spaces create an environment conducive to appreciating art

• Continuous learning as with over 2,300 paintings, there’s always something new to discover, even for repeat visitors 

How much does it cost to visit the National Gallery?

Nothing. It’s free to visit the National Gallery. The museum is committed to making art accessible for all.

So, whether you're local to London or planning a summer trip to the capital, make sure to pencil in a visit to the National Gallery. It's a chance for your children to not only appreciate art but to become part of the creative process themselves. Who knows? You might just be nurturing the next Van Gogh or Monet…

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Free festival of art at the National Gallery key information

• Summer on the Square and Take One Picture runs daily from 1st August to 1st September, 2024

• Opening times are 11am to 1pm, and 2pm to 4pm each day

• All activities are open to everyone

• All studio sessions are drop-in and open to all ages and abilities

• Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis

About the National Gallery

The National Gallery houses the national collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries, offering visitors a journey through centuries of artistic excellence. Open 361 days a year, free of charge, our gallery is accessible to all. 

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. As a mum of two herself, she knows all too well how difficult travelling with kids can be. Whether it’s within the UK or abroad, she’s on a quest to find only the best and most family-friendly locations, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog up and down country lanes.

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