Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery
A historic building housing a poignant war memorial and a vibrant art gallery, celebrating local talent and remembrance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic building housing a poignant war memorial and a vibrant art gallery, celebrating local talent and remembrance.
"An amazing building with the only cenotaph in the UK being inside. Superb exhibitions and wonderful staff."
🎯 Check Opening Times
Hours can be limited, especially Mon-Wed. Always verify online before your visit!
🎟️ Free Entry!
Enjoy incredible art and history without spending a penny. Donations are welcome.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Memorial Hall
Ground Floor
A solemn space with marble floors and wall plaques honoring local heroes from WWI, WWII, and beyond. A truly moving tribute.
Centenary Open Exhibition
Main Gallery Space
Celebrating local artists with diverse 2D and 3D works, this exhibition transforms the gallery into a vibrant showcase of community creativity.
Rotating Art Exhibitions
First Floor Gallery
Discover thought-provoking displays from local and regional artists, often focusing on themes relevant to Stockport's identity and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Centenary of Art and Remembrance
Navigating Exhibitions and History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Times
Hours can be limited, especially Mon-Wed. Always verify online before your visit!
🎟️ Free Entry!
Enjoy incredible art and history without spending a penny. Donations are welcome.
♿ Accessible Art
A lift provides access to the first-floor art gallery, making it accessible for all.
🖼️ Support Local Artists
Many exhibited artworks are for sale, offering a chance to own a piece of local talent.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Times
Hours can be limited, especially Mon-Wed. Always verify online before your visit!
🎟️ Free Entry!
Enjoy incredible art and history without spending a penny. Donations are welcome.
♿ Accessible Art
A lift provides access to the first-floor art gallery, making it accessible for all.
🖼️ Support Local Artists
Many exhibited artworks are for sale, offering a chance to own a piece of local talent.
🏛️ Steeped in History
Don't miss the ground floor memorial, a poignant tribute to local war heroes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery for its dual role as a moving memorial and a vibrant art space. The free entry, friendly staff, and diverse exhibitions are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some note that opening hours can be limited, requiring careful planning.
"An amazing building with the only cenotaph in the UK being inside. There are different exhibitions on which are all superb. Free entry and wonderful staff. The building is steeped in history and I highly recommend visiting."
Steve D
"Extremely attractive Greek style building, with a marble paved hallway leading to the memorial wall plaques. Inaugurated 100 years ago by Prince Henry (son of King George V) to honour the thousands of local men who perished in WWI. The names of those who died in WWII and other subsequent conflicts have since been added. The building also houses the towns art gallery with regular exhibitions. Currently there's one regarding the end of the war in Europe whilst the war with Japan is still raging. Well worth a visit but check the limited opening times."
Nuts
"A most impressive building and very moving to see all the fallen listed in the hall. Its also a vibrant art gallery with friendly and helpful staff. There's a lift to the first floor where the large art gallery is. Well worth a visit."
Jean Reeve
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gallery is centrally located in Stockport. It's easily accessible by public transport, with bus stops nearby. If driving, check local parking options as street parking can be limited. +1
While direct parking at the gallery is limited, several public car parks are available within a short walking distance in Stockport town centre.
Yes, Stockport train station is a short walk from the gallery, making it a convenient option for visitors traveling from further afield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery is completely free! This makes it a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the gallery is open Thursday to Friday from 1 PM to 5 PM, and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, and Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
As entry is free, advance booking is not usually required. However, for special events or exhibitions, it's advisable to check if any pre-registration is needed.
Yes, the gallery often features engaging exhibitions that can appeal to a wide range of ages. The free entry also makes it a great family outing.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The gallery showcases a diverse range of art, from contemporary pieces by local artists to historical exhibitions. They frequently host open exhibitions featuring community submissions. 
Yes, the gallery is accessible. There is a lift to the first floor where the main art gallery is located, ensuring visitors can comfortably explore all areas.
The duration of your visit will depend on the current exhibitions. You could spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours exploring the art and the memorial.
The gallery often hosts special events, exhibition openings, and sometimes workshops. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but it's always best to check for specific exhibition guidelines or ask gallery staff. Flash photography is usually prohibited.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand architecture of the building itself, especially the marble-paved hallway, offers great photographic opportunities. The art installations also provide unique backdrops.
While personal photography is usually permitted, it's wise to avoid flash and be mindful of other visitors. Some temporary exhibitions might have specific photography rules.
Yes, you can photograph the memorial plaques, but please do so respectfully. These are important historical records.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for open exhibitions which tend to have a wide variety of styles and subjects, increasing the chances of something visually appealing for younger visitors. The accessibility with a lift to the first floor also makes it easier to navigate with strollers. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to art and local history in a relaxed, no-pressure environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk around Stockport town center or explore other free attractions in the Greater Manchester area to create a full day of exploration without breaking the bank. The free entry policy makes it a highly recommended stop for anyone looking for enriching experiences on a tight budget.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the memorial, the rotating art exhibitions often touch upon local themes and history, providing further context and narrative. Checking the gallery's schedule for exhibitions related to local heritage or significant historical periods can enhance the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Remembrance: The Memorial
The architecture of the building itself, described as 'extremely attractive Greek style,' complements the solemnity of the memorial hall. The marble-paved hallway leading to the wall plaques adds to the grandeur and reverence of the space. It’s a place for quiet reflection and remembrance, offering a tangible connection to the past and the sacrifices made by the Stockport community.
While the art gallery is on the first floor, the memorial on the ground floor is easily accessible and a crucial part of the visitor experience. It’s a reminder that the gallery stands as a dual-purpose institution: celebrating life and art, while never forgetting those who gave their lives.
Showcasing Local Creativity: The Art Exhibitions
+3Recent exhibitions have highlighted themes of local pride, community connections, and reflections on contemporary issues. For instance, the 'Centenary Open Exhibition' celebrated Stockport's creative community with a wide array of 2D and 3D artworks.
+1 Other exhibitions have featured specific artists, like Ian Cale or Helen Clapcott, offering deeper dives into their unique artistic visions. +1Visitors frequently praise the gallery for its 'thought-provoking exhibitions' and the 'friendly and helpful staff.' The opportunity to see and even purchase works by local artists adds an extra layer of engagement for visitors.
A Centenary Celebration
+1This centenary isn't just about art; it's also a time to reflect on the gallery's dual purpose as a memorial. The building has stood for a hundred years, serving as both a sanctuary for art and a solemn place of remembrance for local heroes. The ongoing exhibitions often tie into themes of local history, community, and identity, resonating with the gallery's foundational purpose.
Visitors are encouraged to engage with the centenary celebrations, whether by attending exhibition openings, appreciating the diverse artworks, or taking a moment to reflect in the memorial hall. It's a testament to the gallery's lasting impact and its continued relevance in Stockport's cultural landscape.
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