Once a grand Tudor palace, Somerset House has been radically transformed in recent years, becoming notable for its contributions to the visual arts, fashion, music and film. Situated on the Strand overlooking the River Thames, the Embankment Galleries consist of permanent and rotating exhibitions. The Gilbert Collection is thought to be one of the most important art collections ever gifted to the UK, while the Courtauld Collection focuses on Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, including famous works by Monet, Renoir, Degas and Van Gogh, as well as earlier works by Rubens and Gainsborough. Past exhibitions have included retrospectives on classical artists and studies of particular works. Somerset House also showcases the annual London Fashion Week, while the attractive courtyard sets the scene for summer music festivals and outdoor film screenings. During the winter, meanwhile, you can go ice skating at the outdoor rink. Also nearby are the shops of Covent Garden plus the Royal Opera House as well as St Paul's Cathedral.

Hotels near Somerset House Embankment Galleries

Somerset House is situated amongst some of London's top attractions, including St Paul's Cathedral and Covent Garden, and it is also just across the river from the National Theatre and the London Eye. Hotels near Somerset House Embankment Galleries are also handy for continuing the visual arts theme at the National Portrait Gallery in nearby Trafalgar Square and for visiting the British Museum in Bloomsbury. TravelStay.com has London hostels in Bloomsbury and cheap hotels in Bloomsbury for you to choose from. We have the Astor Museum Inn, a top quality hostel with a great location. You can find budget London hotels such as the Garth Hotel or opt for four-star rooms like the Staunton Hotel. Also nearby are the Anchorage Apartments Top Floor, offering the convenience and privacy of a studio flat. Just check TravelStay.com to book your room.