National Gallery

Devoted to Western European art from 1250-1900, this is a mighty, masterpiece-filled museum that somehow manages to remain inviting and enjoyable despite the high number of visitors that pass through its grand halls. With some 2,300 works on view it's a place where you should go to see a particular section or to track down some old favourites. For many, this means the Impressionist period (level 2, rooms 40-46), but wherever you go there is every chance you will see famous pieces that have launched a thousand greetings cards. My advice is to make a plan (the entire collection is online) then reward yourself in advance by booking a meal at The National Dining Rooms (www.thenationaldiningrooms.co.uk) in the Sainsbury Wing (level 1), which specialises in British regional dishes.