The Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) on The Mall, a short walk from Trafalgar Square, brings contemporary art, independent film, music and live events under one roof. Its changing exhibitions can include paintings, sculpture, drawings and video, while talks, performances and screenings give you more than a gallery visit. There are two cinemas, a theatre, a bookshop and a bar, plus a music room for gigs. Weekdays are quieter if you want time to work or explore between events; evenings and weekends tend to have more activity.
An arts centre with a changing programme
The ICA is a contemporary arts centre on The Mall, close to Trafalgar Square. Its programme moves across exhibitions, film, music, theatre and discussion, so the experience depends on what is showing when you visit. The galleries are not arranged as a permanent museum collection; exhibitions and events bring different artists and ideas into the building over time.
Exhibitions can include several kinds of work, from paintings and sculpture to drawings and video. One exhibition, Penny World, presented work by London-based artist and poet Penny Goring across paintings, sculptures, drawings, digital collages and videos. Its focus included the lasting effects of financial uncertainty and the role of creativity during austerity.
Films, talks and live events
Film is a central part of the ICA’s programme, with two cinemas screening independent work. The building also has a theatre and a music room used for gigs. Talks, book launches, workshops, parties and performances add to the evening schedule, with subjects that can range across art, politics and ethics.
Check the current programme before travelling, especially if you want to plan around a particular screening or event. The ICA works well as a flexible stop: you can visit an exhibition, then add a film or talk if one is on during your stay.
The bookshop, bar and spaces between events
The ICA’s bookshop carries titles across art forms, alongside books on philosophy and radical politics. A bar and small snack options are also available in the building. The lobby is compact and can become crowded when people are queuing, so it is useful to arrive with enough time before a screening or performance.
The interior is spare, with carefully placed lighting creating distinct corners in the otherwise minimal spaces. On quieter weekdays, seats, Wi-Fi and power sockets can make the venue a place to pause or work between exhibitions and events. It becomes busier in the evenings and at weekends.
Location and access
The ICA is at The Mall, a short walk from Trafalgar Square. Its facilities include wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating and restrooms, as well as an assistive hearing loop and assisted listening devices. Gender-neutral restrooms are available, and the venue identifies as an LGBTQ+ friendly, transgender-safe space.
FAQ
Where is the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London?
The ICA is on The Mall, a short walk from Trafalgar Square.
What can you see and do at the ICA?
The programme includes contemporary art exhibitions, independent films, gigs, talks, workshops and performances. The building also has a bookshop, theatre, two cinemas and a bar.
How long should you spend at the ICA?
Allow about 1 to 3 hours for an exhibition visit or an event. A screening or performance will add to your visit.
Is the ICA wheelchair accessible?
The venue has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating and restrooms.
