Plan a school visit

Come and explore the paintings with your school. A team of skilled teachers will help your school group get more from the paintings.

National Gallery paintings can be used to enrich learning in every area of the curriculum, from art to modern languages and science. We cater for all levels from Key Stage 1 to A Level.

Our teachers focus on fun and enjoyment, finding a way in to paintings for
pupils of all backgrounds.

Tips on planning a visit

• Book up to a term in advance
• Have alternate dates ready when you phone
• Book a sandwich room at the Gallery for lunch
• Book your Gallery session before you book transport 
• Keep your visit to around two hours
• Consider combining your trip with a visit to a nearby attraction
  such as St James's Park

Talking paintings

Enjoy a free themed one-hour gallery talk, tailored to your school group.
Talking Paintings sessions are available for UK school students aged 3-18.

Find out more about Talking Paintings

Book a talk: 020 7747 2424

Special needs

For groups with special needs, we offer a hands on session, known as Special Eyes, to discuss a painting using multi-sensory materials.

Afterwards, students listen to a talk in front of the painting.

Book a Special Eyes session

Telephone: 020 7747 2424.

Self-guided visit

You are welcome to lead your own school group. We recommend you focus your teaching on a range of paintings - individual works can go off display at short notice.

You can find up-to-date information on which paintings are on display and their location in the Collection online.

Browse the collection

We recommend you spend a maximum of 20 minutes in front of each painting. To help us manage visitor numbers and ensure ease of movement for everyone, we don't allow lecturing in temporary exhibitions.

Book a self-guided visit

Telephone: 020 7747 2449 or fax details of your visit to 020 7747 2423.