Top 10 Art Galleries in Yorkshire

This is my Top 10 of Art Galleries in Yorkshire, I know there are super galleries in Sheffield which I intend to visit as soon as I can. The Danum at Doncaster also has some great paintings.

1. Ferens Art Gallery, Hull 

 https://www.hullmuseums.co.uk/ferens-art-gallery

The Ferens is my favourite gallery, because it was the first gallery I became familiar with, and it gave me a love for art and paintings. An exhibition there in 1987 was the first time I saw original Picasso paintings. The Gallery is renowned for its impressive collection and vibrant exhibition program. The gallery owes much of its existence to Thomas Ferens, a local philanthropist and industrialist who generously donated the funds to establish it. Ferens wanted to create a cultural space that would enrich the community, and today his vision continues to thrive. The gallery boasts an array of masterpieces, including a stunning collection of Dutch Old Masters, featuring works by Frans Hals. Local artist Frederick Elwell's remarkable portraits and landscapes are also highlights, I particularly love The First Born, a father looks adoringly at his wife and new baby. One of the most interesting pieces in the gallery is by hyperrealist sculptor Ron Mueck called Poke, a naked and very lifelike, little man with a fishing rod, that never fails to captivate visitors. Ferens held a hugely popular Ron Mueck exhibition a few years ago.

Ferens offers free entrance, and has a pleasant cafe.

2. Leeds Art Gallery

https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-art-gallery/

Leeds Art Gallery is renowned for its impressive collection of British art, including notable works by artists such as John Grimshaw. His  moonlit local townscapes and ethereal fairy-themed paintings are a favourite of mine. A brick man by Anthony Gormley, is a model of an intended 120ft statue that would have been erected in Leeds, in a similar fashion to the Angel of the North, but it was not to be. The gallery not only showcases a wide range of artworks, it also offers a broad range of excellent exhibitions. There is a welcoming café where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments amidst  inspiring surroundings. With its blend of stunning art and a cozy atmosphere, Leeds Art Gallery provides a perfect retreat from the bustle of the city for art lovers and casual visitors alike. 

Leeds Art Gallery also has a fantastic Picture Library scheme, where you can borrow a piece of art, and pay monthly for this. I have used this and really enjoyed the different paintings we could borrow for our home.

Immediately next door is the Henry Moore Institute which is dedicated to the study and exhibition of sculpture and showcasing works from both historical and contemporary artists.

Leeds Art Gallery offers free entrance and a marvelous cafe.

3. The Hepworth Wakefield

https://hepworthwakefield.org/

The Hepworth Wakefield is a renowned art museum dedicated to the works of British sculptor Barbara Hepworth, one of the leading figures of modernist sculpture. Located in Wakefield, the museum showcases a comprehensive collection of her iconic pieces, reflecting her innovative use of form and space. The gallery also explains how she created her art using a variety of tools and materials, including stone, wood, and bronze, often drawing inspiration from natural landscapes and the textures of the materials themselves. The museum houses an exceptional collection of ceramics, including works by some of the most famous 20th-century British ceramicists, beautifully presented. The museum hosts a range of temporary exhibitions that explore contemporary art and Hepworth's influence, providing a unique cultural experience. Visitors can also enjoy the excellent café, which offers a modern selection of lunches and refreshments, making it an ideal spot to relax. This is such a fabulous gallery that always challenges and inspires me.

There is a charge for entrance to the galleries, but you can use the fabulous cafe without paying the entrance.

4. York Art Gallery

https://www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/

https://www.centreofceramicart.org.uk/

York Art Gallery is a renowned institution with a broad collection that spans centuries, showcasing fine art, decorative art, and ceramics. One of its most influential figures is William Etty, a York-born painter celebrated for his vivid, often sensual depictions of the human form, which remain central to the gallery's collection. Among its notable artworks is L.S. Lowry's "Clifford’s Tower", depicting one of York’s iconic landmarks in his distinctive style. The gallery also holds Dame Laura Knight's "Gypsy Caravan", a bright, colourful painting reflecting her fascination with Romany life. The mechanical clock, daily delights visitors with its intricate design. York Art Gallery is also known for its exhibitions, regularly hosting shows that attract attention, blending the historical with the contemporary.

The CoCA (Centre of Ceramic Art) is housed in two gallery spaces on the first floor of York Art Gallery and is home to permanent collections, changing exhibitions and displays, new acquisitions, and commissions. The ceramic collection features contemporary and historical pieces, including works by Grayson Perry, known for his provocative and narrative-rich pottery. In 2001 York Museums Trust was given a large collection of studio ceramics by the most prolific collector of British studio ceramics during the post-war period. W. A. Ismay, or Bill to his friends, he collected 3,600 pots by over 500 artists and created a supporting archive of around 10,000 items.

There is a charge for entrance to the galleries, but you can use the fabulous cafe without paying the entrance.

5. Salts Mill, Saltaire

https://www.saltsmill.org.uk/

https://saltairevillage.info/

Saltaire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in West Yorkshire, is a beautifully preserved Victorian model village founded by industrialist Sir Titus Salt in 1851. Built around Salt’s textile mill, Salts Mill, the village was designed to provide workers with quality housing, education, and amenities. Once a thriving hub of textile production, the mill is now an acclaimed arts and cultural complex, shaped by the influence of artist David Hockney, whose art is displayed throughout the mill’s galleries, including his paintings of the Mill. Hockney’s vibrant and innovative works have made Salts Mill a significant destination for art lovers worldwide. Salts Mill also houses boutique-style shops, galleries, and two marvelous cafes, making it a lively hub for shopping and dining. The small museum at Salts Mill offers visitors an insightful glimpse into the history of the mill and the village of Saltaire, featuring exhibits that showcase its industrial heritage.

Visitors can explore Roberts Park nearby, enjoy picturesque walks along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, or take advantage of the close proximity to Saltaire train station for easy access. The surrounding village of Saltaire, with its rich Victorian heritage, unique shops, and beautiful landscapes, offers a perfect blend of history, art, and leisure.

Free entrance, fabulous shops and cafes.

6. Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield

https://ysp.org.uk/

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a stunning open-air gallery nestled in the picturesque countryside of West Yorkshire, where visitors can explore an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush landscapes. The park is renowned for its changing exhibitions, showcasing works by both established and emerging artists from around the world, including iconic figures like Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, and Antony Gormley. It includes the colourful, mosaic work of Marialuisa Tadei, with the Octopus and the Buddha. Damien Hirst's The Virgin Mother stands at 10 metres tall and is the tallest sculpture at YSP.

Alongside the diverse artworks, visitors can enjoy tranquil countryside walks that meander through beautifully landscaped gardens, woodlands, and fields, offering a perfect blend of art and nature. The centerpiece of the park is its serene lake, which reflects the surrounding sculptures and adds to the peaceful ambiance. This unique fusion of art, nature, and changing exhibitions makes the Yorkshire Sculpture Park a vibrant cultural destination that inspires creativity and reflection.

There is a charge for entrance to the galleries, but you can use the fabulous cafe without paying the entrance.

7. Pannett Art Gallery, Whitby

https://www.pannettartgallery.org/

https://whitbymuseum.org.uk/

https://www.botham.co.uk/visit-us

Pannett Art Gallery in Whitby is a traditional gallery that showcases an impressive collection of fine art, particularly emphasising the work of local artists and the rich artistic heritage of the Yorkshire coast. The gallery is particularly noted for its Staithes Collection, which features works from the Staithes Group of artists, a collective known for their portrayals of coastal landscapes and village life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among the celebrated painters in this collection are John Atkinson Grimshaw, with works like "Whitby Harbour" reflecting the town's maritime status. The gallery also includes works by Dame Laura Knight, a prominent artist of the 20th century and her husband, Harold Knight, who painted a notable portrait of her. The gallery also highlights the remarkable contributions of the Weatherill family, who were known for their depictions of the local sea views, sailing ships, the local countryside and local fishing villages, that demonstrate the beauty and character of the Whitby area. 

Next door to the gallery is the Whitby Museum, which displays an eclectic collection that spans various subjects, including local history, geology, and maritime artifacts, enriching visitors' understanding of the area’s cultural heritage. Situated in the pretty Pannett Park, the gallery and museum offer a great combination of art and nature, inviting visitors to explore the beautiful surroundings while engaging with the rich artistic legacy of Whitby.

There is free entrance into the Art Gallery but a charge for the Museum, there is currently no cafe here, but Botham's on Skinner Street is nearby and is our favourite.

8. Scarborough Art Gallery

https://scarboroughmuseumsandgalleries.org.uk/visit/scarborough-art-gallery/

Scarborough Art Gallery offers a rich and diverse collection that highlights the cultural heritage of the Yorkshire coast, with a particular focus on the town's early history as a seaside resort. One of the highlights of visiting the gallery is the opportunity to explore the  town's collection, which includes a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and prints. Notable works include those by Edward Bawden, whose peepshow captures the whimsy of seaside holidays, John Atkinson Grimshaw, famous for his moody, atmospheric scenes, and Ivon Hitchens, known for his semi-abstract landscapes. The collection also features works by Frederic, Lord Leighton, Eric Ravilious, and Matthew Smith, each bringing unique styles and perspectives, often influenced by the sea and Scarborough’s coastal charm. Nearby, Woodend Gallery provides a more contemporary space, showcasing exhibitions by modern and emerging artists, complementing Scarborough’s rich artistic legacy.

There is a charge for entrance to the galleries, but you can use the fabulous cafe at Woodend Gallery without paying the entrance. Scarborough Art Gallery and Woodend Gallery are very close to each other on The Crescent, close to the South Bay.

9. Cannon Hall Museum, Park and Gardens, Barnsley

https://www.cannon-hall.com/

Cannon Hall Park, set in the beautiful South Yorkshire countryside, is home to an impressive collection of art and heritage, housed in the historic Cannon Hall Museum. The museum’s art collection includes notable works from British and European artists, alongside the stunning De Morgan Collection, which features intricate ceramics and paintings by the celebrated Victorian artists William De Morgan and Evelyn De Morgan, known for their contributions to the Arts and Crafts movement and their richly symbolic, mythological themes. The painting collection features one of the finest assemblies of 17th-century Dutch and Flemish works in the country, along with masterpieces by renowned artists such as Constable, Canaletto, and Hogarth, alongside exquisite works by Jan van Huysum and Caspar Netscher, all displayed throughout the museum’s beautifully curated rooms

The park itself is a picturesque setting, offering expansive grounds where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through landscaped gardens and past peaceful lakes.

There is free entrance to the museum, and a great cafe.

10. The Mercer Gallery, Harrogate

The Mercer Art Gallery in Harrogate, housed in a charming 19th-century building that once served as a Promenade Room for spa visitors, is renowned for its collection of British art spanning from the 19th century to the present. The New Light Prize Exhibition is currently on display, until January 2025 one of the UK's largest and most prestigious open exhibitions, celebrating the exceptional talent of artists from the North of England. Established to support both emerging and well-known Northern artists, New Light has spent 15 years offering top awards and opportunities in the region. The current touring exhibition features the five winning works, along with a diverse range of pieces from 121 shortlisted artists, all selected by an esteemed panel of judges for their unique and captivating contributions to the visual arts.

Just a short walk away is the Royal Pump Room Museum, which delves into Harrogate's history as a fashionable spa town, showcasing its famous sulphur springs. For a quintessentially British experience, visitors can enjoy tea and treats at the iconic Betty's Tea Room, a beloved Harrogate institution known for its elegant service and delicious confections.

There is free entrance to the museum, and the fabulous Betty's nearby, if there's a long queue you can always pop into their shop for a Fat Rascal!