About Bonhams
Bonhams is one of the world’s oldest and largest auction houses for fine art and antiques, with its flagship London saleroom at 101 New Bond Street in the heart of Mayfair. Founded in 1793, the house has spent more than two centuries bringing together collectors, dealers and enthusiasts, and today it holds sales across the UK, Europe, the US and Asia.
The New Bond Street headquarters is a destination in its own right. Its elegant galleries host free public viewings before every auction, offering a rare opportunity to see exceptional objects up close — from Old Master paintings and jewellery to contemporary art, classic cars and television memorabilia. Visitors are always welcome to browse, whether they intend to bid or simply admire the craftsmanship on display.
What to Expect
Depending on the season, you may encounter previews of paintings, sculpture, watches, wine, manuscripts or celebrity-owned memorabilia. The sale calendar is busy all year round, and many viewings are completely free and open to the public — no registration required.
Bonhams staff are knowledgeable and approachable, and catalogues with provenance notes and condition reports are available for serious buyers. For anyone new to auctions, the viewings are also a wonderful, no-pressure way to learn how the auction world works.
Getting There
Bonhams is located at 101 New Bond Street, London W1S 1SR. The nearest Underground stations are Bond Street (Central and Jubilee lines) and Green Park (Piccadilly, Victoria and Jubilee lines), both about five minutes’ walk away. Many bus routes serve Oxford Street and Regent Street, including the 3, 6, 9, 12, 13, 23, 94 and 139.
Find out more on the London city page and see all events taking place in the capital on our full events list.
Good to Know
Viewings usually run for a few days before each sale, typically 10:00 to 16:00 on weekdays. Photography is generally permitted. If you are interested in bidding, register in advance on the Bonhams website: bonhams.com.
Bonhams is also known for its specialist departments, from watches and whisky to motor cars and motorcycling. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a first-time visitor, the atmosphere in the New Bond Street saleroom is welcoming, and the free exhibitions before each sale offer a unique window into the world of fine art and antiques. Check the sale calendar online to plan your visit around a category that interests you.
More Events at Bonhams
Bonhams regularly hosts free exhibitions ahead of its auctions. One current highlight is the Outlander Costumes Exhibition — a free display of costumes and props from the hit TV series before they go under the hammer.
