Southampton City Art Gallery
A 1939 civic gallery showcasing strong 20th-century and contemporary British art, with impressive sculptures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful viewing
Southampton City Art Gallery
Best Time
Peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1939 civic gallery showcasing strong 20th-century and contemporary British art, with impressive sculptures.
"An eclectic collection with a broad appeal to any art lover, and best of all, free entry!"
Free Admission 💰
Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support the gallery's collections and exhibitions.
Shop Local 🛍️
Check out the Re:So shop inside the gallery for unique art and gifts from local artists.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
20th Century British Art
Permanent Collection
Discover works by masters like Stanley Spencer and Eric Ravilious, showcasing a rich artistic heritage.
Contemporary Art Exhibitions
Temporary Exhibition Spaces
Experience fresh perspectives with rotating displays featuring emerging and established modern artists.
Sculpture Collection
Various Galleries
Admire impressive sculptures, including pieces by renowned artists like Rodin and Gormley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Impact
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission 💰
Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support the gallery's collections and exhibitions.
Shop Local 🛍️
Check out the Re:So shop inside the gallery for unique art and gifts from local artists.
Explore the Civic Centre
The gallery is part of the Civic Centre, making it easy to visit other attractions nearby.
Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the diverse collections, so wear comfortable footwear.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission 💰
Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support the gallery's collections and exhibitions.
Shop Local 🛍️
Check out the Re:So shop inside the gallery for unique art and gifts from local artists.
Explore the Civic Centre
The gallery is part of the Civic Centre, making it easy to visit other attractions nearby.
Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the diverse collections, so wear comfortable footwear.
Check Exhibition Schedule 📅
Temporary exhibitions change regularly, so check the website to see what's on during your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Southampton City Art Gallery for its eclectic and impressive art collection, especially its strengths in British art and sculpture, all offered with free entry. The relaxed atmosphere and regular exhibitions make it a worthwhile visit for both art aficionados and casual explorers. Some visitors suggest arriving early for a more peaceful experience.
"We came here due to having some free time before boarding our cruise. Varied art gallery and a relaxed atmosphere. Free entry but a donation is recommend ( and deserved ! ). Definitely worth a visit."
Maddy Stanton-Wales
"ecclectic collection with a broad appeal to any art lover! and best of all, free entry. go early if you want to enjoy the peaceful gallery spaces."
richi rich
"Nestled in the bustling core of Southampton, the Southampton City Art Gallery is a delightful discovery for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Established in 1939, this gallery has evolved into a cultural cornerstone, showcasing a diverse range of artworks that reflect both the city’s rich history and its contemporary vibrancy.
Exhibition and Collection
One of the gallery’s standout features is its impressive permanent collection, which spans over 800 years of art history. The collection is notable for its strength in British art from the 19th and 20th centuries, including works by renowned artists such as Sir Stanley Spencer and Eric Ravilious. This historical breadth is complemented by a solid representation of contemporary pieces, offering visitors a well-rounded artistic experience.
In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, which are thoughtfully curated to include both emerging and established artists. These exhibitions often focus on a variety of themes and media, providing a fresh and dynamic experience with each visit.
Facilities and Accessibility
The gallery is housed in an elegant, early 20th-century building that blends classical architecture with modern amenities. The layout is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through its various sections. Accessibility is a priority, with ramps and elevators ensuring that the gallery is welcoming to all visitors."
Eranda Janaka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gallery is located in the heart of Southampton's Civic Centre. It's easily accessible by public transport, with bus stops nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the city centre.
Yes, there are multiple car parks within walking distance of the Civic Centre, including the Grosvenor Square car park and the WestQuay Shopping Centre car park.
Southampton Central Station is a short walk or bus ride away from the Civic Centre. Trains run frequently from major cities.
Yes, the gallery is committed to accessibility and offers ramps and elevators to ensure all visitors can navigate the space comfortably.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Southampton City Art Gallery website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Southampton City Art Gallery is completely free! While there's no charge, donations are encouraged to help support the gallery's collections and exhibitions.
For general admission, booking tickets in advance is usually not necessary due to the free entry. However, for special events or workshops, it's advisable to check the gallery's website.
While the permanent collection is free to view, some temporary or special exhibitions might have an associated charge. Always check the gallery's website for details on current displays.
Absolutely! Donations are a vital part of supporting the gallery. You can usually donate at the entrance or through their website.
The gallery sometimes offers guided tours or talks, especially for special exhibitions. Information on these can usually be found on their website or by inquiring at the gallery.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The gallery boasts an eclectic collection with a broad appeal, featuring British art from the 19th and 20th centuries, contemporary pieces, and sculptures by artists like Rodin and Gormley.
The gallery often hosts workshops and events, some of which are designed for families and children, encouraging young people to engage with art. 
While there isn't a dedicated cafe within the gallery itself, there are numerous dining options in the surrounding Civic Centre and city centre area.
Photography policies can vary for exhibitions. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in the permanent collection areas, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff.
Re:So is a shop located inside the Southampton City Art Gallery that features unique art and products from local artists and designers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is often permitted in the permanent collection areas, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artworks. Special exhibitions may have different rules, so always check for signage or ask gallery staff.
The architecture of the 1939 building itself can be quite photogenic. Look for interesting lighting on sculptures or visually striking pieces in the permanent collection.
The gallery is situated in the Civic Centre, which has some interesting architectural features. The surrounding city centre also offers various urban photography opportunities.
You can generally photograph the Re:So shop for personal use, but it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers and the shop's displays.
Professional photography or commercial shoots typically require prior permission. Flash photography is almost always discouraged to preserve the artworks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Encourage children to explore the different styles and perhaps pick their favorite piece. The gallery's accessible layout makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and the diverse collection can spark curiosity and conversation about art. Remember to check their website for any scheduled family events.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic lunch or explore the many affordable eateries in the city centre to keep costs down. The gallery's location in the Civic Centre also makes it easy to explore other free or low-cost attractions in the vicinity.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the different rooms and consider attending any talks or events that might be scheduled during your visit to gain deeper insights into the artworks and artists.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Collection: A Treasure Trove
Beyond paintings, the gallery boasts a strong collection of sculptures, featuring pieces by internationally acclaimed artists like Auguste Rodin and Antony Gormley. These three-dimensional works add another layer of depth and engagement to the visitor's journey through the collection. The gallery's commitment to acquiring and displaying significant works, often through bequests and donations, has solidified its status as a cultural hub on the South Coast.
Temporary exhibitions are a cornerstone of the gallery's programming, consistently bringing fresh perspectives and new artists to the forefront. These exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, often exploring specific themes or highlighting the work of emerging talents. This dynamic approach ensures that each visit can offer a unique and exciting discovery, making the Southampton City Art Gallery a consistently engaging destination for art lovers.
+1Community Engagement and Education
+2These programs aim to demystify the art world and encourage participation, making art accessible and relevant to a broader audience. By partnering with schools and local artists, the gallery provides valuable learning experiences and opportunities for creative expression. This focus on community involvement not only enriches the lives of participants but also strengthens the gallery's role as a vital cultural institution within Southampton.
+1The presence of the Re:So shop within the gallery further supports local artists by providing a platform for them to showcase and sell their work. This initiative aligns with the gallery's broader mission to champion creativity and support the arts ecosystem in the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit