There’s certainly some serious pedigree to this exceptional gallery, located since 1989 within the enviable setting of Somerset House, on the Strand. It’s part of the Courtauld Institute of Art (itself connected to the University of London), and has been showcasing world-class art since the 1930s. It’s now home to more than 500 paintings, and a further 26,000 prints and drawings.
The artwork ranges from the Middle Ages all the way through to 20th-century masterpieces. Highlights include three from van Gogh (including Self Portrait with Bandaged Ear), as well as works from Gainsborough, van Dyck, Rubens, Degas, Monet, Goya and Botticelli. Quite the collection, then.
Alongside this exceptional permanent collection, the gallery runs hugely popular exhibitions showcasing their curatorial expertise. Make sure you check out The Courtauld Lates if you can – a cracking-looking series of events featuring after-hours art, cocktails and music, with a setting quite unlike anywhere else. Highly recommended.