Review: Royal Academy of Arts

Zoom out. What’s this place all about? The Royal Academy of Arts, or the R.A., as it's more fondly known, has been around for 250 years run by artists operating one of the most prestigious art schools in the world, and is home to an incredible collection of global art. It's had many homes but has been in the grand Burlington House in Piccadilly since 1867, a magnificent spot to showcase the varied collection. For anyone with more than a passing interest in art, and for all visiting artists of any kind to London, the R.A. and its curated exhibitions are a must-see and almost always sell out.

What will we find in the permanent collection? The R.A.'s collection is vast including sculpture, drawing, painting and architecture. The majority of artists and art featured comes from R.A. members over its history, some of the most artists in the world, from John Constable to Reynolds, Tracey Emin, Sir Anthony Caro, Millais and Dame Laura Knight. There are numerous classic works on show as well as themed exhibitions from the collection, and varied and regular temporary shows that typically sell out very quickly. And there is always the annual Summer Exhibition featuring plenty of new work from up and coming R.A. students and alumni, and major icons in the art world.

Any temporary exhibits worth seeing? The Summer Exhibition (tickets around £22) is always well worth seeing. It's joyful, and a real celebration of contemporary art and architecture. Other temporary exhibitions here are also usually big blockbusters featuring artists even the biggest culture novice will have heard of like Matisse, the Impressionists, David Hockney, Van Gogh.

What did you make of the crowd? R.A. visitors are properly here for the art, not just to visit a famous gallery in London. There's lots of pondering and imaginary beard-stroking going on, but don't let that put you off. The collection is truly fabulous and the chance to see contemporary new artists' works before they are famous is tantalizing. Of course, tourists of all sorts come and it's always dotted with art students, too. A spot to appreciate, contemplate, and simply enjoy.

On the practical tip, how were the facilities? Once the extra buildings of Burlington Gardens were added to the main house in 2018, the R.A. saw itself expand massively, and with specially designed new wings by the likes of architect Norman Foster, the spaces have been developed in such a way to make getting around easy and relaxed and affording enough time and space to enjoy the art at leisure. Designed for all, there are plenty of spots to stop, sit, and rest your legs when you need.

What about the gift shop? There's always an amazing of exhibition books here as well as posters and prints and the usual key rings, mugs, and other bits branded by either the gallery or specific artists' work; but it's beautifully done and you're bound to find something you want, and something you never you knew wanted in the first place.

Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere? Chef José Pizarro is in charge of the food here serving tapas and cava on the Portico Terrace, small Spanish plates at the Poster Bar and a full all day dining menu at the lovely José Pizarro restaurant. There’s also tea and cake at the RA Café and Courtyard Cafe for something a bit more informal.

Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged? Absolutely. You can visit quickly and still get plenty out of the R.A.—the buildings themselves are worth checking out alone if you like 19th-century and modern 21st-century architecture blended together. In terms of classics, you'll always do well seeing whichever Turners, Constables or Reynolds are on show from the permanent collection at any one time, but you'll probably surprise yourself and find you stay longer.