Royal Academy named Time Out’s top London art gallery for 2026
The free permanent collection holds Michelangelo’s Taddei Tondo and a 16th‑century copy of Leonardo’s Last Supper, while new shows include Richard Dadd, Painting the French Riviera and Peggy Guggenheim in London.
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Time Out announced that the Royal Academy of Arts has been ranked as the number‑one art gallery in London for 2026. The accolade reflects the institution’s free permanent collection, which the magazine says features Michelangelo’s Taddei Tondo and a 16th‑century copy of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. The Royal Academy, founded 250 years ago as Britain’s first art school, continues to host major temporary exhibitions.
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According to Time Out, the gallery is presently displaying the Richard Dadd exhibition, which the publication rated four stars. The show highlights the 19th‑century painter’s work and has drawn interest from both specialists and casual visitors.
Upcoming shows
The Royal Academy’s programme for the latter half of 2026 includes two high‑profile exhibitions. Painting the French Riviera is scheduled to open on 2 October 2026, presenting works that capture the region’s light and colour. Later in the year, Peggy Guggenheim in London will run from 21 November 2026 until 14 March 2027, showcasing pieces from the famed collector’s legacy.
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Visitors can access the permanent collection without charge, and the temporary shows are also free to the public. Time Out notes that the Academy’s blend of historic masterpieces and contemporary displays makes it a compelling destination for London’s art‑loving residents.
The Royal Academy’s management has not announced any changes to ticketing or opening hours in relation to the new exhibitions. Patrons are advised to check the gallery’s official website for the latest visitor information.
Questions this report answers
+Why did Time Out rank the Royal Academy as the top gallery?
Time Out highlighted the Academy’s free permanent collection, which includes Michelangelo’s Taddei Tondo and a 16th‑century copy of Leonardo’s The Last Supper, alongside its strong temporary programme. The combination of free access and high‑quality shows earned it the top spot.
+What can I see in the Royal Academy’s permanent collection?
The permanent collection, free to the public, holds Michelangelo’s Taddei Tondo and a 16th‑century replica of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, among other works. These pieces are displayed alongside other historic artworks within the Academy’s galleries.
+When does the Peggy Guggenheim exhibition run?
The Peggy Guggenheim in London exhibition opens on 21 November 2026 and closes on 14 March 2027, according to Time Out. It will feature works from the collector’s renowned holdings throughout its run.
+Is there a charge to visit the Royal Academy’s exhibitions?
Both the permanent collection and the temporary exhibitions, including the current Richard Dadd show and upcoming programmes, are free to enter. Time Out confirms that the Academy maintains free admission for all its displays.
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