A national treasure
It's hard to beat a private view of one of the world’s greatest art collections, says Sally Trelford.
Arguably, decorating the entrance into the Central Hall of London’s National Gallery with spectacular flower displays accompanied by bird song is gilding the lily. So magnificent is the Portico Entrance on Trafalgar Square with its marble stairway and mosaic terrace and so mesmerising are the paintings by Canaletto, Turner, Hogarth and Gainsborough that you immediately encounter - to name just a few – it is already a captivating experience.
But the National Gallery was hosting an out-of-hours evening to showcase its potential for events and was supported by its impressive supplier partners. The abundant and gorgeous floral displays were by Mary Jane Vaughan, the stage set by Light Motif and the violinist and harpist provided by Sternberg Clarke Entertainment. It was glorious.
There is of course no shortage of extraordinary event venues in the capital, recently named again as the number one Cvent Meeting Destination in Europe, but it’s hard to beat the prestige of a private view of one of the world’s greatest art collections.
A drop-in drawing class was organised at the showcase with a fabulously dressed model and help and advice on hand, which was popular with guests.
“Our Corporate Membership scheme allows clients to book around certain exhibitions, which is very popular,” says Arouche. “Events around the upcoming Van Gogh exhibition are already sold out.”
Celebrating its 200th birthday this year, the Gallery is ideal for corporate drink receptions for up to 2,000, dinners for up to 300 and private tours out of hours. Most evening events start at around 7pm but it is also possible to start the day with a bespoke tour before the gallery opens at 10am. “This gives visitors the chance to see the gallery coming to life,” says Clare Arouche, head of events. “Themed tours are popular and no topic is out of bounds. Having an art historian as a guide really helps bring the art to life and elevates the whole experience.”
The Portico Terrace can be used for outdoor events while the large, spacious galleries offer a multitude of choice and flexibility, and even red wine can be served at sit-down dinners. (Often a no-no in venues where priceless artworks need to be protected.)
The opportunity to wander around and view the paintings feels very special and the building itself is beautiful enough to wow those less interested in the masterpieces adorning the walls. The Central Hall with its rich red walls has a domed glass ceiling that is even more spectacular after dark.
Jimmy Garcia Catering was responsible for a beautiful display of desserts and delicious selection of canapes at the showcase evening served alongside Nyetimber English sparkling wine. A welcome and unexpected gift in the evening’s goody bag was a loaf of Jimmy Garcia’s fantastic bread.
Event planners can also feel good about booking the venue, which is free for visitors day to day. “Events are an important source of revenue,” says Arouche.
A lot of work has been going on at the National Gallery and May next year will see a re-opening of the Sainsburys Wing with a new entrance and by September 2025 the Lecture Theatre will reopen. “With seating for 320, this will be a great room,” says Arouche. “With a larger lobby space and lunch and breakouts held in adjacent areas, it will have a fully accessible stage.”
A new Learning Centre will also open, primarily aimed at schoolchildren, with a sophisticated entrance. “It is an affordable option in a smaller gallery, offering a lower price point for events,” says Arouche.
Another exciting addition due to open in September 2025 is the new Members House with a restaurant, lounge and salon available for events up to 100 using the Portico Entrance. I suspect it’s going to be a hot ticket.
Built with Shorthand