If you don't know about this collection, you probably wouldn't stumble across it. Tucked away behind Selfridges, it is an exquisite way to spend some time. The building is a stunning example of eighteenth century architecture with an impressive central staircase.
The exhibits range from fifteenth and sixteenth century German armour to fifteenth century French furniture. There are examples of work by Gainsborough, Van Dyke, Rubens and Titian to name but a few. There are cases filled with exquisite jewellery and snuff boxes. And much much more. Each room is a work of art in itself having been relatively recently refurbished with wallpaper in jewelled colours and matching drapes. Not a cheap venture and considering there is no entry charge you really are being given a treat.
If you do feel like contributing to the upkeep, you have the choice. There is also a restaurant which is good if a little on the expensive side. It is one of the jewels in our crown.
The Wallace Collection is must see museum/gallery if you come to London. The items on show were bequeathed to the nation in the late 19th Century and have been on display here since 1900.The number and quality of the Old Masters from the 15th to the 19th century is amazing. It has some of the finest examples of 18th century French furniture in existence. There is also a rich assemblage of porcelain, sculpture and royal amour in the collection.A condition of the bequest was that none of the pieces ever left the collection, even to go out on loan. So if you ever wish to see, say, 'The Laughing Cavalier' or Canaletto's 'View of the Grand Canal' you have to come here. Come for the art, stay for the food.
The restaurant within the Wallace Museum is a thing of beauty, much like the art within the place. I didn't really have time to really soak up the art as I was really just here for a beautiful meal within the al-fresco (glass roofed) courtyard. Flanked with 4 story high pink walls, the courtyard is spacious and bright and reminiscent of a holiday location!The menu hosts a series of seasonal dishes. The Asparagus, with sauce gribiche and bottarge is a beautifully light yet flavour packed dish that is by no means small.
The asparagus spears were large, and the chef had been generous with the gribiche (a mayonnaise style cold egg sauce) and together with the asparagus reminded me of elegant picnics in summer time. Additionally the pan fried mackerel with pesto and tomato salsa was a glorious celebration of summery flavours, with a beautiful tang from the pesto which was complemented well by the oily fish that fell apart with a touch of the fork. The presentation was outstanding, mirroring the elegance of the surroundings. It all happened to go beautifully with a glass of the crisp, light Chardonnay recommended by the manager.My main was a beautiful bowl of asian inspired coconut broth with turbot and vegetables. It was smooth and sweet and light, while dessert was unusual - a bowl of peach soup, the colour of a deep sunset. With gloops of fresh, tart sorbet places within it, it was refreshing and a gorgeous palate cleanser.
Is a museum with a world-class collection of fine and decorative paintings ranging from the 15th to 19th century with a particularly large collection of 18th century French arts, porcelain and decoratives. It's been open to the public since 1990 and situated in Marylebone. It is open free of charge to visit.I'd say the The Wallace Collection is a bit of a hidden gem amongst it's more renowned museums. Whilst nowhere near as vast as it's siblings in the shape of the Natural History or the Science Museum down in South Kensington, the collection here is still very impressive and the decor of the museum still retains the splendor and grandeur of the late victorian era. The collection is stretched over two floors and can easily hold your attention for a good hour or so. The Wallace Collection far less busy and more intimate than it's siblings. And has a great dining area in the middle of the museum, which allows loads of natural light to flood the room.
Perfect for lunch with family and friends. It's a little tricky to find admittedly, but well worth a visit. Went to breakfast viewing of Reynolds - experiments in paint.
1st time at the Wallace. A stunning building and a fascinating exhibition. Reynolds was brought to life my the enthusiasm and insight provided by Charlotte Harmon and Simone the press officer. Thank you to Time Out for giving me this opportunity. I knew very little about Reynolds but this small but thoughtfully curated exhibition provides a fascinating insight into Reynolds, his constantly developing techniques and the society he painted.
Highly recommended!
Wallace Collection London England
THE WALLACE RESTAURANT IS LOCATED WITHIN THE BEAUTIFUL WALLACE COLLECTION GALLERY ON MANCHESTER SQUARE, CONSIDERED TO BE ONE OF THE BEST COLLECTIONS OF FINE ARTS INCLUDING PAINTINGS, PORCELAIN AND FURNISHINGS IN THE UK.We are proud to boast a space that combines al fresco dining in a delightful setting, dotted with trees and sculptures and flooded with natural light. Our all day menu is filled with classic European dishes based on traditional recipes that are reinterpreted in an innovative style.We are open for breakfast (a very civilised and sedate way to start your day) serving up wild mushroom and truffle omelette, scrambled eggs with smoked salmon or pancake with raspberry, coconut and maple syrup snow. Our Afternoon Tea features a classic Cornish Cream Tea, with a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones and a medley of delicious cakes — treat yourself to a glass of vintage Champagne. If nobody’s watching, have another.
That’s what decadent lunches tucked away from the crowds should be all about.We are open until late on Friday and Saturday evenings.