York Art Gallery
About
image courtesy of York Museums Trust
York Art Gallery showcases an extensive collection of paintings spanning more than 600 years. The works on display range from 14th-century Italian panels and 17th-century Dutch masterpieces to Victorian narrative paintings and 20th-century pieces by LS Lowry and David Hockney.
The gallery is also home to the most comprehensive collection of British Studio Ceramics, including acquisitions from Dean Milner-White, WA Ismay, and Henry Rothschild, along with a long-term loan of Anthony Shaw’s collection.
The History of York Art Gallery
Originally opened in 1879 for the Yorkshire Fine Art and Industrial Exhibition, the building was inspired by London’s Great Exhibition of 1851. It became the City Art Gallery in 1892.
The gallery overlooks Exhibition Square, which was created in 1879. The centrepiece of the square is a statue of York artist William Etty, erected in 1911. York Art Gallery holds the largest collection of Etty’s work, and in 2011 hosted the first major exhibition of his paintings and sketches in 50 years.
The Artists Garden
Situated within the original abbey walls at the rear of the gallery, the Artists Garden was developed as part of an £8 million refurbishment. Alongside the Edible Wood, the space is used for contemporary art displays and is free to access.
Previously closed to the public, the garden now links York Museum Gardens with Exhibition Square.
Visitor Information
Opening Times
The gallery is open Wednesday – Sunday, 10am-5pm. Visitors are encouraged to pre-book tickets in advance to guarantee entry.
Tickets
Entry times are divided into 30-minute slots, allowing visitors to check in within that window. Once inside, visitors are welcome to stay until closing time.
For ticket details, visit: York Art Gallery Admission Tickets
Café & Dining
The on-site café, Sketch, serves hot snacks and refreshments. Seating is available both inside and outside.
Getting There
Parking
The nearest car park is located on Marygate, just a five-minute walk from the gallery. Marygate offers 350 spaces and is accessible via Bootham (A19). For more parking details, visit York Live Parking Information.
Public Transport
The gallery is a 15 to 20-minute walk from York Railway Station. Several bus stops are located in Exhibition Square, within 150 metres (164 yards) of the gallery. For bus routes and schedules, visit iTravel York.
Visitors may also find York’s Park and Ride service convenient.
Accessibility
For full accessibility information, visit: York Art Gallery Accessibility Guide