Wallace Collection

Photo of a large, curtained window in the boudoir of the house. Photo of a large, curtained window in the boudoir of the house.
Photo by me. Such understated minimalism.

The Wallace Collection, open to the public since 1900, is definitely tied with Spencer House as one of the most opulent places I’ve visited so far. Even if you’re not interested in art history it is worth a visit to marvel at all the gold, chandeliers and even the colourful wallpaper - an odd thing to draw attention to, but it really is something.

The collection comprises a huge amount of 15th - 19th century art, furniture and armour arranged throughout the grand state rooms of Hertford House. A lot of it was purchased from Revolutionary France and it is easy to forget that you’re in grey old London as you see it all.

At the centre of the house is a pleasant glass covered courtyard where you’ll find a restaurant and adjacent cafe which serves afternoon tea.

Free - Some paid exhibitions

www.wallacecollection.org
A fireplace set against green wallpaper, flanked by ornate cabinets. A huge chandelier is in view. A fireplace set against green wallpaper, flanked by ornate cabinets. A huge chandelier is in view.
Photo by me, the Large Drawing Room with French furniture.
Three large classical paintings on a wall with bright red wallpaper, underneath there's an ornate table. Three large classical paintings on a wall with bright red wallpaper, underneath there's an ornate table.
Photo by me, another of the state rooms.

Exhibitions

Talks

Science and Splendour

Learn about Versailles’ role in advancing science, featuring astronomical clocks and Louis XV’s rhinoceros, with experts Dr Glyn Morgan and Alexander Collins.

Free

-

Science