Britain is an art lovers’ paradise and there is no shortage of great places to take in art from across the ages whether you prefer modern or more historic styles. Small galleries are popping up on every corner but these special 6 really hit the mark when looking for somewhere to get your cultural kick.
Tate Modern
Britain is blessed to be home to Tate collections and The Tate Modern’s impressive building, converted from a disused power station is a contemporary masterpiece filled of itself. Inside you will find several galleries all filled with art works by all the greats. The permanent collection is absolutely free and spans the whole history of modern art including works by Dahli, Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst. The temporary exhibitions are some of the best in the world and the upcoming Paul Klee and Matisse shows are certainly worth travelling for. Staying in the nearby Southwark Hotel means you will be right next door!
If this still isn’t enough for you, why not pop down the river to the reopened Tate Britain. If you’re around on the 23rd November, join the free House Warming Party which will have none other than Jarvis Cocker as the private DJ!
Tate Liverpool
Luckily you don’t have to be in London to take some of the Tate medicine. This powerhouse to the art world is situated right in the city, making it no surprise that Liverpool was hailed “Cultural Capital of Europe” in 2008. Stay in a Liverpool Hotel and enjoy daily talks, tours and family activities, such as The Big Draw, making art fun for all!
Tate St Ives
Making sure that Cornwall doesn’t miss out on the art scene is the Tate St Ives! The stunning seaside gallery was built to celebrate the beautiful British landscape and artists from the area. The gallery can easily be reached from Hayle and while you’re in the area it’s well worth a visit to the nearby Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden too.
The National Gallery
This magnificent gallery holds the nations main collection of masterpieces from the 13th to 19th century and is absolutely free for all! Here you can see Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers”, Seurat’s “Bathers” and Velázquez’s “Venus”.The National Gallery is an absolute must see when staying at any London hotel!
Turner Contemporary
This great new gallery in Margate, Kent was built to celebrate the famous British painter J.M.W Turner, because of his association with the town. A revolving list of exciting exhibitions, ranging from Mondrian to Jeremy Deller, make this elegant gallery an inspiration for all. A stay in a Margate hotel may even leave you wanting to pick up the paints and give painting the Kent Coast a go yourself.
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
These twin galleries just outside Edinburgh city centre, are home to a brilliant collection of art. Amongst the works are paintings by Picasso and Matisse, pieces by the infamous Tracy Emin, Martin Creed and a recreation of Paolozzi’s studio. The outdoor sculpture garden is the perfect place to escape from the city and bump in to pieces by important artists such as Henri Moore and Richard Long before enjoying a well earned glass of wine in the delightful café. When staying in an Edinburgh hotel be sure to also visit The Scottish National Gallery and The City Art Centre too!
