Institute of Contemporary Arts

The ICA is now Free

Don't sweat it: it's now free to get into the ICA

The ICA is delighted to announce that from 1 September 2008 it will no longer be charging a day admission charge. You can now access a wide range of innovative arts, ideas and culture on the Mall  for free.

This change to admission policy extends to all exhibitions and the ICA Bar Café before 11pm but not to ticketed events in the cinemas, theatre and Nash and Brandon Rooms. It has been made possible through the continued and generous support of ICA Members and Westminster Council. As we move into our 61st year we are taking an inclusive and embracing direction to bring together new artists and new audiences.

The first exhibition to benefit from this significant and historic step, is the ICA Auction Exhibition, a finale to the ICA's 60th anniversary celebrations showcasing works generously donated from 36 of the most important and influential artists from the ICA's history.

Other unmissable free highlights from the ICA's September programme include Nobel Textiles, a brilliant week of exhibitions and events where five Nobel-winning scientists have been paired with five textile designers to extraordinary effect.

And with no entry charge until 11pm each evening, everyone is free to indulge in café culture with attractive food and cocktail menus at the ICA Bar Café, a stylish haven in the bustle of central London.

Going free: FAQ

Why Now?
Before 2008, because of our location on the Mall, we were bound to a complex licensing agreement which meant that we had to charge a day admission fee. Following the recent changes to licensing laws, the authority for the licence was transferred to Westminster City Council and the ICA is extremely grateful that they have now granted us permission to vary the terms of our license so that admission charge now only applies after 11pm. 

What does this mean for visitors?
This means that all visitors have free entrance to all public spaces of the ICA including unlimited access to exhibitions and the café/bar area before 11pm. Admission charges only apply to ticketed events in the cinemas, theatre and Nash and Brandon Rooms.

What does this mean for members?
In addition to receiving the usual benefits including advance notice of events via e-mails, advance bulletin delivery to door, priority and discount booking on tickets and in the bookshop, free entrance at all times, private views and other special events, ICA members will now receive the additional benefit of a 10% discount at the ICA Bar Café as a special thank you for supporting us.

How can you afford to go free?
Our Members, funders and sponsors, including Westminster Council and Arts Council England have generously supported us in taking this step.