London Art Market Tour of Auction Houses in Mayfair

Walking Tour

3 hours

London

For centuries, London has been the center of the art market. Names like Christie's, Sotheby’s, and Bonhams are synonymous with the luxury art trade today, but where does this tradition come from? On this London art market tour, we'll learn about the history of the auction houses, how art dealers function, and how the two interrelate.

Our walk will start in Mayfair, at the heart of this multi-billion-dollar global business. Our course through the area will depend very much on current exhibitions and the interests of the group, and will include major auction houses as well as smaller galleries.

Itinerary Details

Typically, we begin this art tour of London with a basic background on the British passion for collecting and London's historical and contemporary role in the luxury market. Next, we'll introduce the history of Phillips and Bonhams, the auctioneers, and visit some of Bonhams' salesrooms to consider the current exhibition. Here, we may discuss how prices are determined and the role of the auctioneer in the success of a sale.

Our discussion will take us to the Fine Art Society and the Royal Academy, where we'll engage in a discussion on the key players of the art world from the 18th century until today. We will contemplate the arbiters of style and fashion -from Beau Brummell to Saatchi and Jay Jopling- and how they can make or break the fortune of an artist.

Our walk will conclude with a visit to two of London's art institutions: Christie's and the White Cube Gallery. We'll discuss contemporary art and how a gallery like White Cube has contributed to Damien Hirst's becoming one of the highest-earning artists in the world.

Takeaways

At the end of our time together, we'll have a better understanding of how London’s art world functions, exploring the various ways in which art and antiques are bought and sold. We will also get the chance to visit some of the city’s most prestigious commercial galleries and auction houses, and see some important artworks and objects rarely on public view.

This walk is a good complement to our British Museum and Tate Modern tour.

Book a Tour

From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.

White Cube Gallery
Bonhams
Christie's
Royal Academy of Arts
Fine Art Society

Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.

Included

English-speaking expert guide
Tours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
Intentionally sized groups
A smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
Tickets and entrance fees
All entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
Headsets
Headsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.

Excluded

Gratuities

We encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
Food and drink

Refreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
Transportation to and from the meeting point

Guests organize pre- and post-tour transport themselves - this service can be added by request.
Hotel pickup or drop-off

Unless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.

Map of London Auction Houses Tour: Decoding the Art Market general meeting point area

Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.

Dos:

Wear comfortable footwear
Check the weather and dress appropriately
Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
Feel free to ask your Expert anything

Don'ts:

Bring firearms or weapons
Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments

Any questions? You can always contact us.

37 Reviews

Excellent tour. Alan is very knowledgeable and the tour a unique opportunity to gain understanding and perspective of the London auction and gallery markets.

Dodie Nov 7, 2025

Alan was incredible! His knowledge was vast and very coherent! It was an excellent experience! The tour was enriching, especially because the timing was great, with several auctions taking place this week, as well as Frieze London! Everything was great!

Jose Oct 10, 2025

Very interesting tour about a corner of the art world we knew very little about. Once again, Alan blew us away with his knowledge and his communication skill. What a pleasure to have him guiding us around London for half a day. If you're curious about the topic, do not hesitate. Alan is a gem!

Jocelyn Sep 3, 2025

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