While wandering through Dulwich Village, I made a long-overdue stop at the Dulwich Picture Gallery, one of South London’s cultural gems. Positioned on College Road in SE21, this peaceful spot feels far removed from the bustle of the city. Step through the gates and you are surrounded by sculpture garden, striking architecture and an exceptional mix of art. Designed by Sir John Soane and opened in 1817, it’s the oldest purpose-built public gallery in England. It was created to house a remarkable collection of Old Masters. Today, it pairs historic works with vibrant contemporary shows. With a great café, gorgeous gift shop and the glorious garden, it’s a lovely way to spend a morning or afternoon. If you’re looking for the best galleries in London or things to do in Dulwich Village, a visit to the Dulwich Picture Gallery should be at the top of your list.
Dulwich Picture Gallery Permanent Collection
The permanent collection is a treasure trove for anyone who appreciates the Old Masters. With an emphasis on European painting from the 17th and 18th centuries, the gallery houses outstanding examples of French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch and British art. You’ll find celebrated works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto, Veronese, Poussin and Gainsborough, among others.
One highlight is the room of British portraits, which includes a striking collection, such as the Linley family. The gallery is arranged by country and period, encouraging you to compare the more emotional Southern European works with the detailed, cooler tones of the Northern artists.
This remarkable collection unexpectedly found its way to Dulwich. In the late 1700s, art dealers Noël Desenfans and Sir Francis Bourgeois assembled it for the King of Poland, but after his abdication, it was left without a home. Unable to sell it, Bourgeois eventually gifted it to Dulwich College with the condition that it be open to the public, leading to the creation of England’s first purpose-built art gallery. The building itself is a masterpiece. Soane’s design was revolutionary, with top-lit galleries and linked rooms that encouraged natural flow and optimal viewing conditions. The gallery’s layout has influenced museum architecture worldwide.
At the western end, the mausoleum holds the remains of Bourgeois, Desenfans and Desenfans’ wife, Margaret, whose dowry helped start the collection.
After your viewing, you should pop into the gift shop for posters, books, greeting cards and other lovely objects related to the gallery and exhibits.
Dulwich Picture Gallery Guest Exhibition
On my visit, the gallery was showing Rachel Jones: Gated Canyons (10 June to 19 October 2025), a bold solo exhibition that created a striking contrast with the baroque collection. Known for her vivid, emotive works in oil stick and pastel, Jones filled the main space with new pieces alongside highlights from the past seven years. It’s a powerful reminder of how the Dulwich Picture Gallery continues to evolve, blending fresh perspectives with classical foundations, and the juxtaposition works beautifully.
Dulwich Picture Gallery Sculpture Garden
After exploring the exhibitions, I wandered out to the garden, which is full of charm. Sculptures are dotted amongst the greenery, and there’s plenty of space to sit, reflect or take in the architecture from a different angle. If you’re visiting in good weather, it’s worth spending time here.
Flotsam & Jetsam Café
Before exploring the gallery, I visited the on-site café, Flotsam & Jetsam, which is set within the grounds. It’s a lovely independent spot serving Allpress coffee, juices, pastries and an appealing all-day brunch menu. I ordered the smashed avocado and feta on wheat and rye sourdough, topped with pickled chilli and a poached egg.
Helpful Information About Visiting The Dulwich Picture Gallery
The Dulwich Picture Gallery is located at College Road, London SE21 7AD. It’s a short walk from North Dulwich station or a 15-minute train ride from central London.
Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm, including bank holidays. Tickets are £12 for adults (with a donation), and there are various concessions for students, seniors, etc. For full details on tickets, exhibitions and what’s on, visit the Dulwich Picture Gallery website.
If you’re exploring the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London.