Royal Academy of Arts Reviews Summary

Exhibition Experience

Pros:

• "The annual Summer Exhibition never fails to disappoint."
• "A fantastic exhibition! I saw the Charles I King and Collector exhibition and it was very well done and put together."
• "Absolutely astonishing videos by Viola were partnered with Michelangelo's drawings which were on loan from HRH."
• "The current Renaissance Nude exhibition is beautiful, encompassing some of that era's greats."
• "We thoroughly enjoyed our visit, staff were friendly and art was amazing."
• "Went to see the exhibition on the Treasures of the Hispanic Society of New York. Which was well presented and curated and worth more than one visit."
• "The exhibitions are well curated, informative, and gather the best pieces in the world to see in one place."

Cons:

• "Visited today for 'Friends' private view of the 'Summer Show' but in future will wait until later as it was seething, muggy, and hot and airless."
• "No real advantages any more, have to prebook, otherwise not getting in."
• "Not as it used to be... exhibition quality going downhill."
• "Great exhibition, I am sure, if one can see past the crowds."
• "Worst exhibition experience in London ever."
• "Quality of exhibitions have gone downhill massively."
• "Each year I get more and more disappointed and now I'm going to stop supporting special exhibitions."

Facilities & Accessibility

Pros:

• "Lovely day out. Visitor numbers are very low so really quiet and easy to view all the works."
• "Lots of staff around to help."
• "Cafè and bathroom facilities clean and hygienic."
• "There are steps and lifts for access inside and free lockers to store away any coats or bags."
• "Even with tickets limited and time slots it very busy. Being a wheelchair user was not a problem as lift to all floors."
• "Facilities at the RA are well equipped, clean and presentable."
• "Great security, friendly staff, great with Service and Assistance Dogs."

Cons:

• "The building is a bit difficult to navigate if you have mobility issues."
• "It seems to be something under construction, so there's no longer any step-free connection between two branches of the building."
• "If you have limited mobility getting to the exhibition areas from the entrance would be a challenge."
• "Nice museum, but don't order anything from the shop: 'world class' institution is unable to fill out custom forms and you end up with an extra handling fee more than the stuff you ordered."
• "The items in this exhibition are outstanding, however there isn't enough light to appreciate the details on maps, books and the small wooden busts of Christ and Mary."
• "The counter and all the equipment and glass display is dirty, unkempt."
• "Bird poop on the tables, despite asking for it to be wiped."

Staff & Service

Pros:

• "Staff are friendly."
• "Recently reopened after lockdown. Excellent organisation and helpful staff ensure a smooth, safe and enjoyable visit."
• "Some staff is friendly."
• "Accommodating for all and fantastic staff, cannot recommend enough."
• "Highly recommend. 👍"
• "Friendly and helpful staff in showing me where to store a case & coat at no charge!"
• "My colleague and I were warmly welcomed by the staff."