Located in the heart of Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine is one of London’s most influential contemporary art institutions. Comprising Serpentine South and Serpentine North, the galleries present a year-round programme of exhibitions, architecture, and public events that engage with global artistic discourse. Serpentine South, housed in a former tea pavilion, has hosted iconic artists such as Marina Abramović and Andy Warhol since its founding in 1970. Serpentine North, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, occupies a repurposed 19th-century gunpowder store and expands the gallery’s reach with additional exhibition and social spaces. Each summer, the Serpentine Pavilion commission invites an international architect to create a temporary structure, fostering innovation and dialogue between art and architecture.
London United KingdomThe Serpentine Gallery, now simply branded as Serpentine, is found in the heart of Kensington Gardens, London W2 3XA. This celebrated contemporary art institution actually comprises two distinct spaces: Serpentine South, housed in a charming 1930s teahouse, and Serpentine North, a short walk away in the elegantly reimagined Magazine building. The galleries are linked by a bridge over the picturesque Serpentine Lake. Set amidst lush parkland, visitors enjoy not only thought-provoking modern exhibitions but also the tranquility and grandeur of Kensington Gardens, with Hyde Park just next door. The location is surrounded by cultural and historic highlights—Exhibition Road is nearby, home to the V&A Museum, Science Museum, and the Natural History Museum. The Royal Albert Hall and the bustling South Kensington area with its cafes, shops, and transport links are within easy reach. The annual Serpentine Pavilion commission adds to the buzz, drawing architecture fans from around the world. With inviting green spaces, excellent walking paths, nearby world-class museums, and convenient public transport, the Serpentine offers an inspiring art experience at the core of London’s cultural landscape.