The Art Lover's Guide To Bloomsbury

Wth so much to see around Museum Mile it’s no wonder that the streets are usually packed with tourists. Here’s our guide to everything an art lover could need in the area, from national museums to contemporary spaces, and plenty of places to grab a bite and recharge.

Must-see museums

Foundling Museum

This museum is dedicated to the work of the former hospital that was established to protect babies at risk of abandonment. Philanthropist Thomas Coram founded it in 1739, with help from artist William Hogarth and composer George Frederic Handel. The charity now works as a separate entity while the original site presents a permanent collection of art that was donated to the hospital. It also presents temporary exhibitions that reveal the hidden stories of the charity as well as questioning modern considerations around child welfare.

Insider’s tip: Look out for an unusual permanent sculpture on the fence surrounding Coram’s Fields. Tracey Emin was commissioned by the Foundling to produce a bronze baby’s mitten that alludes to loss and family.

40 Brunswick Square, Bloomsbury, London, UK

The Art Workers’ Guild

The headquarters of the Art Worker’s Guild are in a beautiful Grade II Listed Georgian building in the heart of Bloomsbury. The organisation was founded in 1884 by architects and designers, who wanted to place fine and applied arts on equal footing, which naturally meant many of the founding members of the Arts and Crafts movement were among the club, leaving their mark on the building’s beautiful interiors.

6 Queen Square, Bloomsbury, London, UK

British Museum

This vast museum is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions. The impressive neoclassical façade holds a striking presence in the centre of Bloomsbury, and the building houses treasures from throughout the world, including the Elgin Marbles and the Rosetta Stone. A dedicated wing also presents exceptional temporary exhibitions covering everything from the history of the Vikings to Pop Art prints.

Insider’s tip: In addition to large-scale shows the museum also hosts free exhibitions in the Prints and Drawings room. Previous shows have uncovered the delights of Japanese Shunga or new work from contemporary artists such as Maggie Hambling.

Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London, UK

Must-see Galleries

October Gallery

This contemporary gallery promotes a term called ‘transvangarde’, promising to bring the greatest transnational practitioners to London’s attention since 1979. It celebrates the intersection between the visual arts, poetry and writing through its programme.

24 Old Gloucester St, Bloomsbury, London, UK

Paul Stolper

Paul Stopler gallery counts a brilliant range of British artists among its portfolio, including Damien Hirst, Peter Blake and Jeremy Deller. The gallery is right opposite the British Museum, in a converted shop, complete with traditional frontage.

31 Museum St, Bloomsbury, London, UK

Herald Street

A new sister space will join Herald Street’s Bethnal Green gallery this autumn, with a spot on museum mile. The gallery’s inaugural central London exhibition will be a solo presentation of work by Turner Prize nominee Michael Dean.

43 Museum St, London, UK

Take a tour

Walk in the footsteps of the artists and writers of Bloomsbury Group with a tour around Fitzroy, Gordon and Bloomsbury Square. There are plenty of blue plaques revealing the house’s most esteemed residents, or if you prefer a more in-depth explanation try one of the many guided walking tours that regularly take place.

Local eats

Sicilian Avenue

Enjoy the delights of Sicilian cuisine along the pedestrian arcade. The area is easily recognisable due to its classical columns and features tasty authentic offerings as well as alternative offerings from the likes of the Holborn Whippet and Planet of the Grapes.

Sicilian Ave, London, UK

Espresso Room

For a quick pick-me-up head to the tiny Espresso Room, where delicious coffee and a few baked goods keep the Holborn crowd going, whether you’re running to your next meeting or gallery hopping.

31-35 Great Ormond St, London, UK

Mary Ward Centre Café

For a more substantial lunch head to the Mary Ward Café, which is part of the adult education centre and popular with students and the wider public. Expect delicious vegetarian Italian-inspired cuisine including massive salads, pasta and tortillas.

42 Queen Square, Bloomsbury, London, UK

Noble Rot

This wine bar and restaurant is dedicated to introducing its patrons to new and under-appreciated wines from around the world. The Parisian-inspired venue is perfect for a quick glass or an indulgent three-course meal, offering up seasonal British dishes. Don’t forget to look out for the namesake’s brilliant magazine too, this innovative publication bring wine loving into the 21st-century with brilliant editorial and fresh design.

51 Lamb’s Conduit St, London, UK

Eat Tokyo

If Asian cuisine is more your thing head to Eat Tokyo, where you can order a simple bento box or no-frills sushi and sashimi. While the décor might be minimal the menu is authentic and delicious.

50 Red Lion Street, High Holborn, London, UK

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