If you’re an art lover in London, you might be wondering whether art exhibitions are currently open in the city. With the ongoing pandemic and changing restrictions, it can be confusing to keep track of what’s happening. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the situation and explore what you need to know if you’re hoping to visit an exhibition soon.
Current Restrictions
As of May 2021, England is gradually easing out of lockdown. Non-essential shops, outdoor hospitality venues, and indoor leisure facilities such as gyms have already reopened. Museums and galleries are also allowed to open their doors to visitors once again.
However, there are still some restrictions in place that could affect your experience. For example:
- Social distancing measures must be observed at all times.
- You may need to book your visit in advance, as many venues are limiting numbers.
- You will be required to wear a mask or face covering while inside the venue.
It’s important to check the individual guidelines for each venue before setting out.
Which Exhibitions Are Open?
Many museums and galleries across London have already reopened their doors. Here are just a few examples:
The National Gallery
The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square is currently open daily from 10am-6pm (with late openings until 9pm on Fridays). Visitors can enjoy free entry to over 50 rooms of art from around the world.
The Tate Modern
The Tate Modern on Bankside has also reopened its doors. The gallery is currently open daily from 10am-6pm (with late openings until 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays). Visitors can enjoy free entry to most exhibitions, although some special exhibitions may require a ticket.
The Royal Academy of Arts
The Royal Academy of Arts on Piccadilly is currently open daily from 10am-6pm (with late openings until 10pm on Fridays). Visitors can enjoy free entry to the Summer Exhibition, which showcases works by both established and emerging artists.
What Safety Measures Are in Place?
All of these venues have put in place a range of safety measures to protect visitors and staff. These may include:
- Hand sanitising stations throughout the building
- Plexiglass screens at reception desks
- One-way systems to help visitors maintain social distancing
- Enhanced cleaning regimes
Again, it’s important to check the individual guidelines for each venue before setting out.
In Conclusion
If you’re an art lover in London, you’ll be pleased to know that many exhibitions are now open once again. However, it’s important to be aware of the current restrictions and safety measures in place. By checking ahead and following the guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit to some of London’s top cultural attractions.