Is it necessary to book ahead of time for the various special, (ie paid tickets) exhibits at the National Portrait Gallery in London? I really want to see the special Six Wives of Henry VIII exhibit. We’re planning on seeing the gallery anyway, but our arrival time might be a bit loose. The special exhibits have an entry time. I was hoping to just book the day of or the day before if possible once we’re a little more sure of our schedule. Is that doable, or do these exhibits book up? Thanks!
Posted by
Vancouver, BC
299 posts
Like most things in life, the answer is: it depends.
Some exhibitions book up.
When do you want to go? Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings are Pay as You Wish i,e. as little as £1. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are £5 for under 25s. My money is on those days and times being busy, even more so when it is raining, because it is big reduction from the regular prices. If those days are lovely and sunny but not sweltering, they may be less busy but busier than full price days.
Last year we rolled up to the National Gallery while it was downpouring and we’re able to get me into the Beyond Impressionists exhibition for one hour hence. My daughter wasn’t interested but she was able to walk in with me and and skip the long line to the permanent collection.
Thanks for bringing this exhibition to my attention. I would like to go and I would like to go to Six, which I heard was very good!
Posted by
Bristol, UK
1452 posts
It really does depend on how popular the exhibit is. Maybe have a look and see if it seems to be booking up quickly.
They generally aren’t very strict about the entrance time. You might not get in early but arriving late is not usually a problem.