Dating back to 1768 and George III the Royal Academy of Arts showcases an array of visual arts from around the world through exhibitions, education and debate. There are also various tours and talks available for you to attend throughout the year, so whether you are interested in the fine arts or the impressionist paintings from the 19^th century the Royal Academy of Arts will certainly have something of interest to you and your family.

Exhibitions and Events to see

For those who are planning to visit the Royal Academy of Arts there are many things to see. Here is an example of some of the key exhibitions not to miss:

• Australia - This exhibition consists of Australian art from 1800 to present. It gives a very interesting cultural insight into the people of Australia.
• 21st September - 8th December 2013

• John Carter RA - This exhibition shows a variety of work from one of the greatest British abstract sculptors, his early work from the 1960's is influenced by pop art. You can see sculptures and also the drawings and sketches that show the story of the creation of the pieces of art.
• 2nd October 2013 - 16th February 2014

Open hours

The opening times are as follows: 

• 10:00 - 18:00 (Saturday to Thursday) - Last admission is at 17:30
• 10:00 - 22:00 (Friday) - Last admission is at 21:30

The Academy main restaurant is open between from 10:00 till 18:00 each day with dinner being served up until 23:00 on both Fridays and Saturdays.

During the summer months the Courtyard Café is open every day between 09:00 - 17:30 apart from Fridays and Saturdays where this is extended to 22:00 for the serving of drinks. The other Café nicknamed the Gallery Café is open for a limited time each day between 10:00 and 14:30, serving a selection of snacks.

The shop closes 15 minutes before the main academy closes.

How to get to the Royal Academy of Arts

By Tube:For those coming by tube you should get off at either Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) or Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly and Victoria lines) as these are the nearest. For those on the central line both Oxford Circus and Bond Street tube stations are the nearest, approximately a 5 to 10 minute walk.

Note: Walking times will be longer for those with limited mobility

By Bus:There are five bus routes available to use to get to the Academy. These include:

• Number 9, 14, 19, 22 and 38

By Bike:For those thinking about travelling to the academy by bike you can use the bicycle rack in the courtyard.