National Gallery for Kids and Families in London

Walking Tour

2 hrs

London

Retaining one of the greatest collections of Western art in the world, the National Gallery is a wonderful repository of stories, from the magical to the everyday, from epic tales to biographies, and from the imaginary to the factual. Together, we'll dive into the world of these stories—as well as the stories behind the artists that made them—on this National Gallery for Kids Tour, led by an art historian trained in visual learning strategies. Armed with art supplies and our imaginations, we'll not only learn some of the skills necessary to make masterworks like the ones on display, but we'll develop an appreciation for Western art through the ages.

Tour Description

On our journey, we will hear the legends of the Greek and Roman gods, including Mars, the god of war, and Venus, the goddess of love, as well as the fate of Ariadne, who was deserted on an island by her lover, Theseus, and later discovered by the god of wine, Bacchus. We will also see how artists interpreted the stories of the holy books and meet the Queen of Sheba on her journey to test the wisdom of King Solomon with gifts of gold. Or perhaps we will find out the secret of Samson's superhuman strength and discover who betrayed his secret.

As we explore, we will learn to decipher the signs and symbols that give us clues to the meaning of different paintings. For example, which saint always holds an arrow and why? Who is dressed in animal skins? Who holds a golden apple, and what does an hourglass symbolize? What does a dog, or a dove, or a horse represent in a painting?

Throughout the walk, we'll also engage with the paintings through a series of interactive activities. Maybe we'll take out our pencils and decide to try our hands at sketching some of the paintings we see—inserting ourselves into the picture! Or, perhaps we'll take a closer look at painting; just how do they get so many colors and textures onto the canvas? Either way, we'll walk away with a deepened appreciation for the craft of some of Europe's masters—and a few new artistic skills.

Take Aways

Over the course of this walk, we will learn how artists over the centuries have translated the great literary and oral narratives from words to paint as we hear and see these stories. The West has a rich culture of storytelling that has inspired countless retellings, and together with our expert, we will discover these tales on our journey around the National Gallery.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

The walk begins and ends inside the museum. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map.

Do we need tickets to go inside the National Gallery?

No, the gallery is free to the public, however, donations are appreciated. There are donation boxes at all main entrances to the gallery.

Is this tour good for kids?

Absolutely yes! This tour was designed by our museum educators and experts to be fun and interactive. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way, we can match you with the best possible expert.

Is this walk accessible to wheelchair users?

Yes, the gallery is fully accessible.

Book a Tour

Meet our experts

“ I love leading Context tours simply because I know that I will be spending the day with inquisitive, thoughtful and interested clients. I know they will value my expertise, enjoy our conversation and cherish their experience. ”

Harry C.

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

National Gallery
London gallery with European paintings from the 13th–19th centuries, including major masters.

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 National Gallery Tour for Kids 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.

32 Reviews

Two words: Maurizio Patti. Maurizio is engaging, educational and an absolute pleasure. His interaction with our entire group was fantastic. But watching him lead a 5 year old around a museum and keeping her interest was a gift. I hope anyone with art enthused kids has the opportunity to take a tour with him. I am already looking forward to our next trip to London!

Visse Aug 4, 2024

Sarah was a great guide and gave our group (including 6 preteens and teens!) a wonderful sense of how and why art was developing in the Middle Ages thru modernism. Kids had lots of questions and she was patient.

Erin Apr 24, 2024

Francesca was amazing!! She is so knowledgeable and made it fun for our kids too. We would highly recommend her!

Jessica Mar 11, 2023

Join passionate experts on intimate walking tours that reveal a city’s unique stories, spark conversations, and leave you seeing the world—and yourself—a little differently.

Structured, never scripted

Your interests guide your Expert, leading to stories and perspectives that matter to you.

Crafted for conversation

With ten or fewer guests, ask questions, engage with your Expert, and fully immerse yourself.

Experts, not guides

Explore with 1,200+ Experts—from historians and architects to archaeologists and chefs.