The Best Art Galleries in the UK (outside of London)

Venture out of London for a cultural expedition with these art galleries.

Arnolfini, Bristol

Placed on the picturesque Bristol harbour, this was my favourite place to go to to escape from the library woes. It showcases cutting edge contemporary European artists in a beautiful white cube setting. The cafe also serves the best chocolate brownies in Bristol.

See what’s on here

Turner Contemporary, Margate

The brain child of Tracy Emin, Turner Contemporary is a jewel on the Kent coast. Currently exhibiting is my favourite artist Grayson Perry, displaying his perceptive commentary on contemporary life and society. A modern day Hogarth with his insightful caricatures of modern life, this exhibition will appeal to everyone through his tactile mediums of pottery, tapestry and illustration.

Tate Liverpool

The Tate Liverpool is housed in an impressive converted red brick warehouse on the picturesque Docklands waterfront. It has an excellent collection of National British art from 1500 to the present day. 

The Baltic, Newcastle

This contemporary art gallery on the Quayside exhibits some of the most prominent contemporary artists from Europe. To get the best panoramic views of Newcastle, head to the viewing platform on the fourth floor or the roof top restaurant on the sixth. See what’s on here

CASS Sculpture Foundation, Chichester

Held in 26 acres of picturesque parkland in Chichester, Cass Sculpture Foundation is the perfect place for a spot of culture in the countryside. It has an ever-changing display of sculpture, some of which has been commissioned to help emerging artists. It also celebrates established artists such as Tony Cragg and Eduardo Paolozzi. See what’s on here

National Galleries of Scotland, Edinburgh

British art throughout the centuries is celebrated in this collection with highlights including beautiful portraits by John Singer Sargent and Thomas Gainsborough. A must-visit during a weekend trip to Edinburgh. See what’s on here

Fitzwilliam, Cambridge

A Neo-Classical architectural beauty in the heart of Cambridge, the Fitzwilliam museum displays many of the British Old Masters. Currently on is a beautiful installation by Xu Bing. Also if the art gets too much, there is a great bakery opposite called Fitzbillies with the biggest cinnamon buns around. See what’s on here