Laing Art Gallery Newcastle
A free art gallery in Newcastle showcasing 18th-20th century British art, local heritage, and engaging temporary exhibitions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Laing Art Gallery Newcastle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free art gallery in Newcastle showcasing 18th-20th century British art, local heritage, and engaging temporary exhibitions.
"A fantastic free art gallery with a great mix of local and national art, plus a free play area for kids!"
🎯 Free Entry Surprise!
Most of the gallery is free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly option.
🧸 Toddler-Friendly Zone
Don't miss the free indoor play area for little ones!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turner's Masterpiece
Special Exhibitions
See Turner's 'The Fighting Temeraire' on loan, a rare treat for art enthusiasts.
Local Landscape Art
Main Galleries
Explore over 200 years of North England and Scotland's landscapes through diverse artistic interpretations.
Diverse Collections
Various Galleries
Discover works by renowned artists like Lowry and Gainsborough alongside lesser-known talents.
Free Play Area
Designated Family Space
A fantastic free indoor play zone for toddlers and young children, perfect for a family outing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Paid Exhibitions
Family-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Surprise!
Most of the gallery is free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly option.
🧸 Toddler-Friendly Zone
Don't miss the free indoor play area for little ones!
🖼️ Check Paid Exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions may have an admission fee; check online for details.
🚶♀️ Easy City Centre Access
Just a short walk from the train station, perfect for a day trip.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Surprise!
Most of the gallery is free to enter, making it a great budget-friendly option.
🧸 Toddler-Friendly Zone
Don't miss the free indoor play area for little ones!
🖼️ Check Paid Exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions may have an admission fee; check online for details.
🚶♀️ Easy City Centre Access
Just a short walk from the train station, perfect for a day trip.
📸 Capture the Art (Respectfully)
Photography is often allowed, but check for specific exhibition restrictions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Laing Art Gallery for its free admission to extensive collections, highlighting its value and accessibility. Many appreciate the focus on local artists and the inclusion of a free play area for families. While some temporary exhibitions require a fee, the overall experience is considered enriching and enjoyable for a wide range of visitors.
"Free art gallery with a cafe and a shop.
There's also an exhibition currently (With These Hands) that requires an admission charge, but I couldn't find information about it (on-site) so I chose not to visit it.
However, the free exhibitions are nice on their own. Definitely worth a visit."
Tim P.
"We went today with my daughter because she loves art, and it was incredible. I think everyone should take their kids there to see so many historical pieces and amazing artwork.
There are five different art rooms you can visit for free, and there are more exhibitions available if you’re willing to pay."
Shoayb Hamdi
"The Lang Art Gallery is in a lovely building in the centre of Newcastle. The main part of the gallery is free and contains a variety of artworks.
There is also a section where you can buy tickets. The current exhibition is ‘Romance to Realities’ where they are displaying art relating to the changing landscapes of the North. It was interesting to see paintings from Durham, Northumberland, and the Scottish boarders. I felt it was worth paying to see.
The Gallery has a cafe but I cannot comment on this as I didn’t go in. The gift shop sold a selection of goods from books and cards to jewellery and bags.
I travelled by train and it took less than 15 mins to walk from there."
Melanie Hudson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Laing Art Gallery is conveniently located in Newcastle city centre, just off Northumberland Street. It's a short, less than 15-minute walk from Newcastle Central Station, making it easily accessible for those arriving by train.
While there isn't dedicated parking at the gallery itself, several public car parks are available in the city centre within walking distance. Consider using the Eldon Square car park or the nearby multi-storey car parks for convenient options.
Yes, Newcastle city centre is well-served by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop near Northumberland Street, and the nearest Metro station is Monument, which is a short walk away.
The gallery is generally accessible, with lifts available to access different levels. It's always a good idea to contact the gallery directly if you have specific accessibility needs to ensure a smooth visit.
The gallery is typically open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 3:30 pm for its free exhibitions and play area. Special exhibitions may have different hours, so it's best to check the official Laing Art Gallery website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The main collections and general entry to the Laing Art Gallery are free for all visitors. This makes it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly cultural experience in Newcastle.
No, you do not need to book tickets for the free exhibitions. You can simply walk in during opening hours. However, for special ticketed exhibitions, booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times.
Yes, the Laing Art Gallery often hosts special temporary exhibitions that may require a separate admission charge. Examples include 'With These Hands' and 'Romance to Realities'. Check the gallery's website for current ticketed exhibitions and pricing.
Tickets for special exhibitions can usually be purchased on the day at the gallery's entrance or information desk. However, to guarantee entry and potentially save time, booking online in advance is advisable.
The gallery welcomes group visits. It's recommended to contact the gallery in advance to arrange your visit, especially if you require guided tours or have specific needs. This helps them manage visitor flow and provide the best experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Laing Art Gallery boasts a diverse collection, primarily focusing on 18th to 20th-century British oil paintings and watercolours. You'll find works by renowned artists like L.S. Lowry and Gainsborough, as well as pieces that explore local heritage and landscapes.
Absolutely! The gallery features a free indoor play area specifically designed for little ones, making it a great destination for families.
Photography is generally permitted in the main galleries for personal use, but it's essential to check for any restrictions, especially in special exhibitions. Avoid using flash photography, as it can damage the artwork.
While not always advertised, guided tours may be available, especially for special exhibitions or pre-arranged group visits. Inquire at the information desk or check the gallery's website for any scheduled tours.
The Laing Art Gallery offers a cafe for refreshments and a gift shop selling books, cards, jewellery, and bags. Restrooms are also available throughout the building.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Laing Art Gallery has a cafe where visitors can purchase refreshments, snacks, and light meals. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit.
The cafe typically offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and other light bites. The menu can vary, so it's best to check on-site for current offerings.
Being in the heart of Newcastle city centre, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs surrounding the Laing Art Gallery. You'll find a wide range of cuisines and price points within a short walking distance.
Generally, it's best to consume your own food and drinks in designated areas or outside the gallery to avoid accidental spills on the artwork. The cafe is the intended place for refreshments.
While specific options can vary, many cafes in cultural institutions are becoming more accommodating of dietary needs. It's advisable to ask the cafe staff about vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available on the day of your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the main galleries of the Laing Art Gallery. However, always look for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted in specific areas or during special exhibitions.
No, flash photography is strictly prohibited in all areas of the gallery. The bright light can cause irreversible damage to delicate artworks over time.
Yes, special exhibitions often have stricter photography rules, and sometimes it is not allowed at all to protect the loaned artworks. Always check the guidelines for the specific exhibition you are visiting.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not permitted inside the gallery to avoid obstructing other visitors and to prevent accidental damage to the art.
For high-quality images for editorial or commercial use, you would typically need to contact the gallery's press or collections department. For personal sharing, social media often has tagged images you can reference.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
Beyond the permanent collection, the Laing frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that bring world-class art to Newcastle. These can range from major retrospectives of iconic artists like J.M.W. Turner, whose masterpiece 'The Fighting Temeraire' has been loaned to the gallery, to thematic exhibitions exploring craft, industry, and identity. These rotating displays offer a dynamic experience, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to discover with each visit.
For families, the inclusion of a free indoor play area is a significant draw. This dedicated space allows younger visitors to engage with art and creativity in a fun, interactive environment, making the gallery accessible and enjoyable for all ages. The combination of free general admission, diverse collections, and engaging temporary exhibitions makes the Laing Art Gallery a valuable cultural hub in Newcastle.
Visiting with Children
Beyond the play area, the gallery's main collections, which are free to enter, can also be engaging for older children. Highlighting local artists and landscapes can spark conversations about the region's history and geography. While some of the more traditional art might not hold the attention of very young children for long, the sheer variety of works, from portraits to landscapes, offers visual stimulation. Consider making it a shorter visit focused on a few key pieces or the play area to keep younger ones happy and engaged.
Photography at the Laing
However, it's crucial to be mindful of gallery etiquette. Flash photography is strictly prohibited across the entire venue, as the intense light can cause significant damage to delicate artworks over time. Furthermore, special exhibitions frequently have their own set of rules, and photography may be completely disallowed to protect loaned or particularly sensitive pieces. Always look for clear signage or ask a member of staff if you are unsure about photography permissions in any given area. Tripods and selfie sticks are also typically not allowed to ensure the safety of the art and the comfort of other visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit