Serpentine
London Learn more about what's on at Serpentine Galleries and the artists shaping its programme.Serpentine—often referred to as the Serpentine Galleries—comprises two interconnected contemporary art spaces, Serpentine South and Serpentine North, in Kensington Gardens, central London. Located on either side of the Serpentine Bridge, a short walk from South Kensington and Lancaster Gate, the galleries present free, year‑round exhibitions, commissions and live events at the intersection of art, architecture, ecology and technology.
Founded in 1970, Serpentine initially opened in what is now Serpentine South, a Grade II‑listed former 1930s tea pavilion in Kensington Gardens. Over five decades the organisation has become one of the UK’s most recognised platforms for contemporary art, working with both emerging artists and internationally acclaimed figures. In 2013, the opening of Serpentine North—a transformation of the historic Magazine gunpowder store with a fluid new extension designed by Zaha Hadid Architects—expanded its architectural and curatorial reach. The two sites, around a five‑minute walk apart across the park, form a distinctive cultural destination where contemporary practice meets the landscape of Kensington Gardens.
Serpentine’s programme is internationally recognised for experimental and interdisciplinary work, spanning installation, video, sculpture, performance and public art. Past and recent exhibitions and commissions have included artists such as Hilma af Klint, whose work featured in Hilma af Klint: Painting the Unseen (2016), James Barnor, Marina Abramović, Faith Ringgold and Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, among many others. Launched in 2000, the annual Serpentine Pavilion is a globally influential architecture commission that invites an international architect each year to create a temporary pavilion on the lawn outside Serpentine South; past architects include Zaha Hadid (2000), Frank Gehry (2008), Theaster Gates (Black Chapel, 2022) and Minsuk Cho / Mass Studies (2024).
Entrance to both Serpentine South and Serpentine North is free, and visitors are encouraged to check current booking and ticketing guidance on the Serpentine website before travelling. The programme is global in scope yet deeply engaged with local communities, social justice and environmental questions, with projects unfolding in the galleries, across the park and online.
Serpentine FAQs
How do I find out what’s on at Serpentine Galleries?
Serpentine lists all current and upcoming exhibitions, pavilions, commissions and live events on its official website, with details on dates, locations and ticketing. Visitors should check the What’s On and Visit pages for the latest information, as gallery hours or access can change for installation or special events.
Who are some of the artists who have shown at Serpentine Galleries?
Serpentine has exhibited leading figures including Marina Abramović, Faith Ringgold, Grayson Perry, and James Barnor. Its exhibitions and commissions span generations and geographies, foregrounding experimental and socially engaged practices.
What contemporary art galleries are nearby Serpentine Galleries?
Serpentine South and Serpentine North sit in Kensington Gardens, within walking distance of major cultural institutions such as the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal College of Art, and South Kensington’s museum district. From there, visitors can also reach contemporary galleries including Lisson Gallery and Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, among others in nearby West and central London. Use Ocula’s London Art Guide to explore nearby shows and plan a wider itinerary.
Can I buy artworks by artists who are showing or have shown at Serpentine Galleries?
Serpentine is a non‑profit arts organisation and does not operate as a commercial gallery, so artworks in its exhibitions are not sold directly through the institution. However, many artists featured in its programmes are represented by leading galleries listed on Ocula, where works can be viewed and enquired about. For assistance in sourcing particular pieces, Ocula advisors are available to help.
Is the Serpentine accessible?
Serpentine South and Serpentine North provide step‑free access, with level entrances and wheelchair‑accessible galleries. Accessible toilets are available at both sites, and access guides note that wheelchair users can move between exhibition spaces without steps. Visitors with specific access requirements should consult Serpentine’s Plan Your Visit and accessibility information online for the most up‑to‑date details.
Artworks by Serpentine Galleries Artists
More London Museums and Galleries
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services