Exhibitions

Considered to be one of the most creative cities in the UK, you're never far from an art exhibition, installation or gallery in Nottingham. Rich in culture, the city is a hub for the arts and you can enjoy a huge range of events here - from national touring shows to local artist performances.

Galleries in Nottingham

In the city centre, you can enjoy world-class modern art at Nottingham Contemporary. Designed by the award-winning architects Caruso St John, this unique building is situated in the heart of city centre. One of the largest galleries of its kind in the UK, this beautiful space hosts a diverse range of exhibitions by international artists. It is free to enter and is one of our top recommendations for visitors to Nottingham.

Located in Hyson Green, New Art Exchange is the largest art centre in the UK dedicated to culturally diverse arts. This modern gallery welcomes an ever-changing series of exhibitions, showcasing the work of both British and international artists. Alongside the exhibitions, the gallery also hosts a popular programme of events with film screenings, festivals, workshops and live performances taking place throughout the year. And the best part? Entry to exhibitions and events is free! 

Based in the idyllic grounds of Highfields Park, Lakeside Arts is the University of Nottingham's public arts centre and museum. This unique venue hosts an eclectic events programme, featuring live music, art exhibitions, dance shows and theatre performances. There are two excellent cafés on-site, and a gallery shop selling original works by leading craftmakers.

Founded in 1969, Bonington Gallery has been at the forefront of Nottingham’s visual arts community for over fifty years. Situated at the heart of Nottingham Trent University’s (NTU) School of Art & Design, the gallery's exhibitions and events are completely free to access, and open to the public. Past exhibitions have featured local, national and international artists, including Hetain Patel, Frank Stella, Permindar Kaur, Steve McQueen and Andrew Logan. 

Situated just a stone's throw from the historic Lace Market in Nottingham, the Fletcher Gate Art Gallery is the centre for original fine art in Nottingham. This established gallery stocks a wide variety of original art, including work by local artists. Whether you're a keen collector or just looking for a special piece for your home, you will find plenty of beautiful artwork here.

Art galleries in Nottinghamshire

If you want to get creative yourself, Patchings Art Centre offers a year-round programme of classes and workshops to suit a range of skill levels and ages. Located in Calverton, this art school and gallery also host monthly exhibitions and events, including a prestigious and nationally renowned Art Festival in July.  If you want to pick up some supplies, there is an art shop on-site, as well as a gift shop, framing centre and café.

Situated on the historic Welbeck estate, the award-winning Harley Gallery hosts a range of contemporary exhibitions by leading artists. Featuring everything from ceramics to photography, exhibitions change five times a year, so there is always something new to see. Just next door, the Portland Collection displays treasures from Welbeck’s significant historic collection, built over 400 years by the Dukes of Portland. This elegant gallery features an extraordinary array of oil paintings, miniatures, ceramics, silverware and furniture.

Established in 1992, Thoresby Gallery was originally built to house the Pierrepont Collection. Now welcoming over 80,000 visitors a year, the gallery has evolved to host an eclectic programme of exhibitions throughout the year. For local artists, there are regular open exhibitions where both professionals and amateurs have the chance to showcase their work.