What art museum should I visit in London?

[Mary Reilly]

I will be going to England for a few days in the beginning of October. I will be spending one day in London and want to visit an art museum.

Does anyone have any recommendations? I thought either the Tate or the National Gallery. Of course, there may be others that I never heard of. Also, I don't know the size of these museums and therefore if I should plan on visiting both in one day or only one. I welcome any suggestions or input that anyone might have.
Thanks
Mary

[Scott Bartner]

Mary,

One day doesn't give you much time. I'd stick to Trafalgar Square and visit the National Gallery and then the National Portrait Gallery. In the National Gallery Sainsbury Wing is a good restaurant called Crivelli's Garden so you don't have to waste time looking for a place to eat.

The National Gallery website is:
http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/

The National Portrait Gallery website is:
http://www.npg.org.uk/live/index.asp

They drive like maniacs (and on the wrong side of the road no less!) so be sure to look right when crossing the street.

[Mary Reilly]

Scott,
Thanks for the info and the websites. I didn't even think of the portrait gallery as I forgot there is one in London. My choices have been decided upon with your help.
One day in London is difinitely quick. I am actually going to England for a wedding in another part of the country and will try and visit different areas of England each day. It 's more like a 5day whirlwind tour of the country with London thrown in the middle. Presently my husband is doing a work assignment an hour or so from London so I hope to get back to England more often and will check out London again.
Thanks
Mary