Royal Academy of Arts

The RA was founded in 1768 by a group of 40 artists and architects who became the first Royal Academicians. The first president was Sir Joshua Reynolds, whose statue now stands outside Burlington House.

From ancient sculptures to modern-day masterpieces, the RA is the original home of the blockbuster exhibition. It stages an annual Summer Exhibition, the world’s largest open-submission exhibition.

No art lover should miss this traditional institution, providing many temporary exhibitions and insightful talks.