London Hotels near National Gallery

The Sainsbury Wing

Plans for this new wing, opened in 1991, provoked a lot of controversy. Prince Charles dubbed an early design “a monstrous carbuncle on the face of a much loved friend.” The final building has drawn criticism from others for being a compromise.

This is where major changing exhibitions are held. It also houses the Micro Gallery, a computerized database of the Collection.

History of the National Gallery

The National Gallery has been popular since its inception in the early 19th century. In 1824 King George IV persuaded a reluctant government to buy 38 major paintings, including works by Raphael and Rembrandt, and these became the start of a national collection. The collection grew over the years as rich benefactors contributed works and money.

National Gallery Guide

Most of the collection is housed on one floor divided into four wings. The paintings hang chronologically, with the earliest works in the Sainsbury Wing. The North, West, and East Wings cover 1500-1600, 1600-1700, and 1700-1900. Lesser paintings of all periods are on the lower floor.

Hotel near National Gallery

Situated in the center of the city in Trafalgar Square, the Thistle Charing Cross Hotel is a newly renovated hotel within walking distance of the National Gallery, the West End, and shopping. There is an onsite restaurant, bar, and coffee shop. This is a reasonably priced four star hotel in the center of one of the most traveled cities in the world.