Discover Secret Gardens and Timeless Classics at The National Gallery

An iconic London landmark that needs no introduction, the National Gallery, is not only home to one of the greatest collections of Western European painting in the world, but also, some of the city’s most coveted event spaces. September 2018 sees the National Gallery launch two brand new outdoor event spaces in the heart of central London –where better to entertain your guests than Trafalgar Square?

The National Gallery has a variety of event spaces ranging from picture galleries to modern conference facilities in the Sainsbury Wing. The spaces are so versatile, the Gallery ia able to accommodate a vast range of events - from a grand dinner to an intimate supper party, a stylish canapé reception, to an annual conference.

National Gallery, Luxury London Venue


We were thrilled to get the chance to see their new outdoor spaces, that launched this autumn. We can’t wait to share them with you and plan your next unforgettable event.

Having an event planner is key, as there are several logistical details, as well as contractual regulations to consider. The dry-hire and private event spaces are accessed in and around public opening times. At Golborne we specialise in creating bespoke events in London’s most unique, dry hire venues – so you know you are in safe hands.

Treat your guests to a private tour with accompanying lecturer

The National Gallery holds one of the most beautiful, varied and significant collections of painting from the 13th to the early 20th centuries, including many famous works. Whether it’s the vibrancy of Van Gogh's Sunflowers, or the tranquillity of Monet's The Water-Lily Pond, there are works to please everyone. If you have a particular collection or exhibition in mind for your event, it is possible - subject to conditions – to arrange a tour led by an expert lecturer for your guests. Lecturers can accommodate up to 30 guests per tour. Tours will last for up to one hour and can focus on specific artists, themes or highlights of the collection’s most famous and celebrated paintings.

Monet Waterlilies, Monet

New spaces

The National Gallery Garden

We love the clandestine mystery of this space. A beautiful walled courtyard freshly planted with Jasmine bushes this September – what makes this garden particularly special is the secret door that leads from Trafalgar Square. The maximum capacity is for 60 guests, it’s the perfect spot for an intimate canape reception.


               Photo Credit: Mark Bothwell

Jubilee Walk

The second space we are delighted to bring you is Jubilee Walk. Ready for a lively crowd this covered paved area is just crying out for a street party! Jubilee Walk can accommodate up to 400 guests standing or 315 guests for an informal al fresco dining experience in the heart of iconic London.


               Photo Credit: Mark Bothwell

Timeless Classics your guests will never forget

As well as the new outdoor spaces the National Gallery has a number of versatile indoor spaces – here is the low-down on some of our favourites:

The Portico Terrace

With unrivalled views overlooking the iconic Trafalgar Square, the Portico Terrace is an extraordinary event space. Ideal for a summer drinks reception or alfresco dining on the exquisite black and white mosaic floor. In inclement weather Central Hall can be used as the wet weather option. 

Reception capacity: 250 (external terrace and internal foyer)

Reception capacity: 100 (external terrace only)

Dinner capacity: 60

Mosiac Terrace

The Mosaic Terrace is a very special space. The very first picture that greets visitors to the National Gallery - The Awakening of the Muses - is set into the floor of the Mosaic Terrace. The marble mosaic was laid in 1933 by the Russian-born artist Boris Anrep, who was an associate of the Bloomsbury Group. His Muses and famous friends are depicted within the mosaic, including the film star Greta Garbo as Melpomene, writer Virginia Woolf wielding an elegant pen as Clio and Sir Winston Churchill as Defiance. Elevated above the Portico Entrance, the Mosaic Terrace is ideal for a drink’s reception or intimate dinner on its exquisite tiled floor. Beautifully lit by a glass ceiling and muted turquoise walls, the light delicately compliments the vibrant colours of the mosaic.

Reception capacity: 60

Dinner & Breakfast capacity: 40


Central Hall

This spectacular room beautifully lit by an elevated glass rooftop and with a ceiling decorated in gold leaves, is nothing short of regal. This is the event space for truly exceptional receptions and dinners.

Reception capacity: 200

Dinner & Breakfast capacity: 100

Room 30

Home to some of the Gallery’s most iconic Spanish paintings from Velazquez to Zurbarán, including The Rokeby Venus, Room 30 is a perfect space for an elegant reception or formal dinner.

Reception capacity: 300

Dinner & Breakfast capacity: 220


               Photo Credit: Wise Productions 

National Café

Transformed into a dining area in 1980, The National Café is one of the largest event spaces in the Gallery. Boasting its own private entrance overlooking St Martin-in-the-Fields, the space has the feel of a 1920’s Parisian café with its marble floors, high windows and beautiful hexagonal lights – it is a modern contrast compared to the picture galleries. With built-in marble topped bars and dancing space the National Café is ideal for a drinks reception, sit down dinner or evening celebrations.

Reception capacity: 500

Dinner capacity: 100

Wohl Room (Room 9)

The Wohl Room is the largest event space within the National Gallery and bridges the elegant 1838 building with the magnificent Sainsbury Wing (1991). The Room contains the Gallery’s fantastic gold-framed collection of Venetian Renaissance paintings and is lavishly decorated with green damask walls and a spectacular glass roof. The paintings within the room were painted to be hung in the palazzos of the famously hospitable Venetians, making this a natural location to entertain your guests.

Reception capacity: 450

Dinner & Breakfast capacity: 310

Say, I Do, at The National Gallery

In order to take advantage of these iconic galleries and new outdoor event spaces, for your next launch, party, or corporate event get in touch with us, to register your interest early.

We strive to keep our Golborne clients, friends and affiliates up to date with the latest news surrounding London’s Iconic Event spaces – we don’t want you to miss a thing. As such, we are excited to announce that The National Gallery is now set to host Wedding Receptions! Get in touch to register your interest in holding your wedding here for the chance to be one of the first to say “I do” within the walls of London’s irreplaceable National Gallery.