The Guardian recently reported on a pilot scheme using culture to alleviate mental health struggles. The Canadian initiative has seen doctors issued with free tickets to the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, for prescribing to patients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure.

Proximity to ancient artefacts and great works of art could have a beneficial effect on your mental health, too.

So why not start with a visit to one of these incredible UK cultural institutions?

1. National Gallery, London

Situated in Trafalgar Square in the heart of London, the National Gallery recently celebrated its 200th anniversary.

Housing iconic artists from Renaissance masters to the Impressionists, you’ll find work by Titian and Michelangelo, Renoir and Monet, as well as the likes of Van Gogh, Constable, and Turner.

While the works of art themselves are sure to captivate younger visitors, you’ll also welcome the dedicated family space in the Roden Centre for Creative Learning, open weekends and during holidays.

2. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum has something for everyone, from kids to big kids.

Explore the incredible array of artefacts that document our history on your own or using a guided tour. Discover “Hidden Gems” or opt for the “Family Favourites” tour, which aims to keep the whole family entertained for around two hours.

Be sure to check out the museum’s new Evolution Gardens, complete with a surprise guest.

3. Ashmolean Museum Oxford

As the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology, The Ashmolean Museum is Britain’s first public museum, originally founded in 1683.

It houses a wide range of artefacts and exhibits in its “collection of collections”, from ancient Egypt to contemporary art. You’ll find (among other wonders):

• Greek and Minoan pottery
• Pre-Raphaelite paintings
• English silver.

You’ll also find artworks by the early Renaissance painter Fra Angelico, JMW Turner, and works by the forgotten women of various art movements throughout history.

4. Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool

The Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool holds an incredible number of significant artworks by household names like Rubens, Rembrandt, and Gainsborough.

You’ll also find Tudor portraits, Pre-Raphaelite works, and iconic images from the likes of Millais, Turner, and Monet.

This summer, discover the work of Jim Moir (aka Vic Reeves) as well as the best of British artists from 1880 to 1950, including work by David Hockney and Lucien Freud.

There’s also the Big Art for Little Artists gallery, created for aspiring artists and critics under eight years old.

5. The Hepworth Wakefield

Yorkshire’s Hepworth Wakefield is named for renowned artist, sculptor, and Wakefield native, Barbara Hepworth.

Operating since 2011, it won the prestigious Art Fund’s Museum of the Year award in 2017.

The Hepworth Wakefield exhibits modern and contemporary art from around the globe, alongside Hepworth galleries.

With work formerly belonging to the original Wakefield Art Gallery, you’ll now find works from artists including:

• Patrick Heron
• LS Lowry
• Henry Moore
• Maggi Hambling
• Frank Auerbach

This striking concrete structure reflects the city’s industrial past while nestling beautifully beside the banks of the River Calder.

6. Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

As one of the UK’s leading regional museums, Brighton Museum & Art Gallery offers a compelling mix of art and cultural history.

Among the museum and gallery’s permanent displays, you’ll find artefacts from Ancient Egypt as well as those charting the human history of Sussex from archaeology.

With temporary exhibitions and live events, check ahead before your visit to see exactly what’s on offer. From the history of performance to global storytelling rituals and 20^th-century fashion, you’ll find something for everyone.

7. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Birmingham

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has been undergoing extensive renovation and has only recently reopened its doors, albeit to a limited number of completed spaces.

Even while work continues, this incredible space is still well worth the visit, housing incredible collections of:

• Fine art
• Archaeology
• Metalwork and ceramics
• Local history

It’s all situated in a Grade II*-listed landmark that has attracted millions of visitors dating back to 1885.

Currently reopened spaces include the Birmingham History Galleries, Round Room, and Industrial Gallery. Plus, there is a new family gallery, Wild City.

Get in touch

If you need help managing your financial wellbeing, get in touch. Email info@thepensionplanner.co.uk or call 0800 0787 182.

Please note:

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.