Arts, Crafts & Galleries

If you are a cultural magpie who likes nothing better than wandering around galleries, hunting for art and craft supplies, or finding unique handmade treasures, you’ll have lots to explore in Nottingham.

There are a few gems within the cinematic streets of The Lace Market, the most notable being Nottingham Contemporary, a free modern art gallery with a constantly inventive exhibition programme. A short walk away you have Debbie Bryan; a tea room, studio and shop displaying artisan crafts and local heritage items. Craft lovers will know that a rainy day is the perfect chance to get stuck into a craft project, making their monthly Crafternoons an ideal choice. Make sure you visit our What's On listings for their latest craft and workshop events!

Another free gallery is the Bonington Gallery, located on the Nottingham Trent Univsersity City Campus. The Gallery promotes a diverse and interdisciplinary programme across the entire range of visual and performing arts, cherishing a commitment to equality of opportunity and to work which is innovative and experimental.

If you take a wander slightly off the beaten track and explore Derby Road you’ll also find some great independent shops and galleries. Swing via The Nottingham Society of Artists – a collective which has been in existence for over 130 years, then make your way up to Lime Gallery, which specialises in framing services and limited edition prints.

Elsewhere in the city don’t miss New Art Exchange, a fantastic hub of multi-cultural arts and events and just a short tram trip from the city, and Lakeside Arts, which is situated in the beautiful University of Nottingham campus.

Feeling like exploring a little further afield? Take a drive to the north of county and visit Patchings Art Centre, a picturesque collection of studios with a gallery and tea shop which is definitely worth exploring. Keep going a little further and you’ll come to The Welbeck Estate’s prestigious Harley Gallery, while Thoresby Park nearby is home to a collection of independent boutiques and Thoresby Gallery.