Antiques & Art in London

London is one of the world's great centres for antiques and art — home to the two largest auction houses on earth, a cluster of world-class commercial galleries, and one of the best antiques market networks of any city.

Auction Houses

Christie's (King Street and South Kensington) and Sotheby's (New Bond Street) both hold public viewing days before major sales — free to attend, genuinely interesting even without buying anything, and a way to see important works of art up close outside a museum context. Both also hold smaller specialist auctions at more accessible price points. You don't need to be a buyer to attend viewings.

Commercial Galleries

Mayfair has the highest concentration of internationally significant commercial galleries — Gagosian, White Cube (also in Bermondsey), Pace, Hauser & Wirth and many others have London spaces here. All are free to enter and shows change regularly. The Frieze Art Fair in October brings the global gallery world to Regent's Park.

Antique Markets

Portobello Road (Saturday) for decorative antiques, jewellery and collectibles. Bermondsey Market (Friday, very early) for trade-quality pieces at dealer prices. Alfies Antique Market in Marylebone is a permanent indoor market across multiple floors with dealers specialising in 20th-century design, vintage fashion and mid-century furniture.

Tips

• Auction house viewing days are free and one of London's most underused cultural experiences.
• Bermondsey Friday market rewards early arrival (before 8am) for the best pieces at trade prices.
• Alfies in Marylebone is worth a full afternoon for mid-century furniture and design.
• Ask questions in galleries — staff are generally knowledgeable and expect browsers.