The best independent and private art galleries in London

Operating as a registered charity and managed by a private foundation, the Estorick Collection is an intimate gallery specialising in 20th-century Italian art with a particular focus on the Futurist movement. The Georgian house is home to the extensive private collection of Eric Estorick, featuring a permanent display of paintings and sculptures alongside a rotating programme of avant-garde temporary exhibitions. Visitors can round out their experience at the on-site Italian café and shop, or participate in the gallery's regular creative workshops.

One of the best-known galleries in London, the Saatchi Gallery operates as an independent charity that reinvests all of its revenue into its programming. Established more than four decades ago by Charles Saatchi, today it's located in the Duke of York's grand Chelsea HQ. The contemporary art gallery aims to promote and support emerging artists from both the UK and abroad.

Since the 1980s, Gagosian has been fostering relationships with generational talents and growing its private gallery network across the world, becoming one of the leading names in commercial art spaces in the process. Its London venues showcase a regularly changing assortment of exhibiting artists, with the museum-quality exhibitions open to the public as well as private collectors.

Bowman Sculpture in St James's is a family-run private art gallery that is considered one of the global authorities on works by master sculptor Auguste Rodin. In addition, the friendly gallery highlights the finest sculpture works from the 1800s up to the present day. You can visit during their public opening hours to explore the fascinating exhibitions or purchase a piece to enhance your home, with private viewings by appointment available as well.

Founded in the early 1990s by a successful art dealer, White Cube has locations around the world, including a pair of showrooms in London. Both are modern and minimalist in design, with pieces by some of the art world's biggest names – Tracey Emin, Gilbert & George, Anthony Gormley, and more – reflecting the private gallery's reputation as a leading establishment for contemporary art.

Independent art gallery Waddington Custot is located in the heart of London, but has branches internationally as well. Specialising in modern and contemporary art, the spacious gallery features paintings, sculptures, and works on paper, among others, hosting exhibitions by the likes of Hans Hartung, Chu Teh Chun, Alice Anderson, and Barry Flanagan. The shows are regularly accompanied by private views, talks, tours, and other events.

Independent art gallery Twilight Contemporary is dedicated to re-imagining the exhibition space while supporting emerging artists and making collecting more accessible. In addition to its curated shows, the gallery hosts weekly lates, transforming into a bar where guests can enjoy sophisticated drinks surrounded by some of London's most exciting contemporary art. The venue also serves as a hub for the local community, hosting regular workshops and artist talks.

Haricot Gallery is an independent London gallery that only launched in 2023, but didn't take long to be recognised as a captivating addition to the capital's art scene. At the heart of East London's creative epicentre, Shoreditch, the contemporary art gallery spotlights the works of young, emerging artists across a range of techniques and styles.

Notting Hill's independent, privately run Graffik Gallery specialises in street art, showcasing works by present-day masters of the art form like Stik, Clet & Robin, Dotmaster, and others. If you feel like you or someone you know might have it in them to become the next Banksy, you can also book one of their graffiti workshops.

Victoria Miro is an essential destination for contemporary art fans. The sleek private gallery in London hosts a regular programme of exhibitions featuring globally renowned figures such as Yayoi Kusama, Idris Khan, Paula Rego, and Chantal Joffe. These high-calibre showcases are free to attend, providing public access to some of the most significant works in the modern art world.

CasildArt is a Black-led non-profit organisation dedicated to championing contemporary Black art and culture. By increasing the visibility of Black artists and amplifying their voices, the independent gallery fosters inclusivity and supports creative expression, bridging the gap between artistic output and critical conversation. In addition to public showcases, they're a valuable resource for private clients seeking impactful artworks.

Situated just off Berkeley Square in Mayfair, Grimm is a private London gallery dedicated to supporting a global roster of over thirty international artists. The space focuses specifically on championing emerging and mid-career talent within the contemporary art scene. This mission extends across the gallery's international locations, with sister spaces in Amsterdam and New York.

Spread across several spaces, including a showcase at the famed Harrods department store, the Halcyon Gallery presents an extensive collection of works from both established masters and emerging talents, including the likes of Andy Warhol, Bob Dylan, and James McQueen. Each artist is selected for their exceptional creative flair and their capacity to introduce innovative perspectives to the contemporary art world.

Autograph has spent over three decades platforming artists who utilise photography and film to explore themes of race, representation, social justice, and human rights. The independent gallery in London supports a diverse spectrum of talent, ranging from emerging voices to established figures, and maintains a unique permanent collection alongside a rotating programme of guest exhibitions. Entry to all exhibitions is free.

Hundred Years Gallery is an independent exhibition space dedicated to supporting experimental and innovative contemporary art. The gallery provides a vital platform for young and underrepresented artists through a varied programme of showcases across its ground floor and basement levels. Beyond visual arts, the venue is a hub for avant-garde expression, hosting weekly performances of experimental music and other community-minded events.