A Surrealist day out in London

Inspired by the fantastical and wacky world of Surrealism we’ve put together the perfect day out in London. Follow our fun guide of places below....

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Objects of Desire: Surrealism and Design 1924 – Today

The Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High St W8 6AG

From Dali’s Lobster Telephone and Meret Oppenheim’s Fur Bracelet to a Schiaparelli shocking pink minidress and a lamp in the form of a life-size horse, explore the dreamlike relationship between Surrealism and design in our #ObjectsOfDesire exhibition.

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The Cosmic House

19 Lansdowne Walk, W11 3AH

Just a stone's throw away from the Design Museum, visit the eccentric west London home of the late architect Charles Jencks. Exploring the concept of time, the seasons, and the galaxies, the Cosmic House is an explosion of ornament, artwork, colour and symbolism.

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Anya Hindmarch Cafe

9 Pont St, SW1X 9EJ

Time for a sweet pick-me-up – head to Anya Hindmarch Café, a playful twist on the traditional British café by the fashion designer. From chubby cloud cakes to caterpillar tarts, enjoy a selection of delicious treats reimagined with Hindmarch’s trademark humour.

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Portobello Road

W10 5TY

Home to one of the best-loved and oldest street markets in London, get your ‘readymade’ fix at Portobello Road. Experience a mile of energy, and colour whilst rummaging for quirky collectible finds – from vintage clothing to crystals and books.

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Lee Miller and Roland Penrose Blue Plaque

21 Downshire Hill, NW3 1NT

Head across to Hampstead to visit the blue plaque commemorating two influential figures of the Surrealist movement – photographer Lee Miller (a number of her works are on display in our #ObjectsOfDesire exhibition) and art patron and painter Roland Penrose.

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Freud Museum

20 Maresfield Gardens, NW3 5SX

To end the day, immerse yourself in the fascinating home of psychoanalysis founder, Sigmund Freud. Discover Freud’s extensive collection of books and ancient artefacts, and see the iconic couch where psychoanalysis was born.

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THE EXHIBITION

Objects of Desire: Surrealism and Design 1924 – Today

Discover the dreamlike relationship between Surrealism and design – a Vitra Design Museum Exhibition.

DISCOVER SURREALISM

6 Surrealist Chairs from #ObjectsOfDesire

Here's our top picks of Surrealist chairs from #ObjectsOfDesire.

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

the Surrealist designs as signs

Inspired by our exhibition #ObjectsOfDesire, astrologer Lisa Stardust gives us a rundown of the new year and looks at the Surrealist designs as zodiac signs.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

What is Surrealism and why it matters now

Curator Kathryn Johnson explains the story behind Surrealism and its impact on design in this video produced in collaboration with Dezeen.

Watch time: 4 min 26 sec