Dulwich Picture Gallery - home to the Old Masters
London's Dulwich Picture Gallery isn't just special for the selection of incredible art it houses - it's the very first purpose-built public art gallery in the world. The gallery was founded in 1811, when Francis Bourgeois donated his collection of Old Masters for public viewing. Located in Southwark within easy reach of North Dulwich station, the gallery has attracted thousands of visitors looking to experience some of the UK's most popular exhibitions, alongside a permanent collection of famous Baroque masterpieces.
Dulwich's rich collection
Dulwich Picture Gallery boasts one of the finest collection of Old Master paintings anywhere in the world. Aside from many British portraits, some of them dating back to the Tudor period, the gallery is rich in Italian, French, and Spanish Baroque paintings. Some of the famous artists featured here include Rembrandt, Veronese, Murillo, and Poussin.
Stroll around Southwark
If you haven't had your fill of art after Dulwich, head over to the Bankside Gallery, home to the Royal Watercolour Society. Fans of the theatre might like to see a play at Southwark Playhouse, a major venue for thespian talent in London. To stretch your legs, take a wander around the famous borough market, or the greenery of Nunhead Cemetery. Planning a trip to Dulwich Picture Gallery? Travelodge London Balham Hotel is a 20-minute drive away, as is Travelodge Falcon Road Hotel.