La Wallace Collection est l'un des secrets les mieux gardés de Londres : un hôtel particulier digne d'un palais, sur Manchester Square, qui abrite une remarquable collection privée d'art français du XVIIIe siècle, de tableaux de maîtres anciens (Titien, Rembrandt, Vélasquez), d'armures médiévales et de porcelaine de Sèvres. Le Laughing Cavalier de Frans Hals en est la vedette, mais les salles richement décorées se révèlent tout aussi saisissantes. Le restaurant, aménagé dans une cour coiffée d'une verrière, est un pur enchantement. On a le sentiment de pénétrer dans la demeure d'un riche collectionneur — parce que c'en était une.
Visitor Information
- Is Wallace Collection free to visit?
- Yes, general admission to Wallace Collection is free. Some special exhibitions may charge a separate ticket, so check the museum's website before visiting.
- What are the opening hours of Wallace Collection?
- Wallace Collection is open Daily 10:00–17:00. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.
- Where is Wallace Collection?
- Wallace Collection is located at Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, in the Marylebone area of London. The nearest stations are Bond Street, Baker Street.
- What can I see at Wallace Collection?
- Maîtres anciens, mobilier français et une collection d'armes et d'armures de rang mondial, dans un somptueux hôtel particulier de Marylebone. Current highlights include The Great Gallery, L'art et le mobilier français (French Art and Furniture), Armes et armures européennes (European Arms and Armour).
- Do I need to book Wallace Collection in advance?
- Wallace Collection is free to enter and most days you can walk in. For special exhibitions, weekends, and school holidays, booking a timed slot can help you skip queues. Check the museum's website for current requirements.
- When is the best time to visit Wallace Collection?
- Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.
- Is Wallace Collection accessible?
- Step-free access to ground floor. Lift to upper floors. Wheelchairs available. Audio guides and large-print labels.