The 7 Best Art Galleries in Colchester, England

Colchester Arts Centre - the little church with the big attitude deep in the heart of Essex. Well that's how we describe it anyway. It sort of works, it at least gives a flavour of what we're about. Because just how do you describe a venue that can put children's entertainer Palfi the Clown on, on the same day as Cradle of Filth? Where a Farmer's Market in the morning becomes a comedy club in the evening, where folk enthusiasts can sit happily knitting (and they do!) in the exact same spot a ferocious mosh pit of teenage dancing takes place the following night? And where the beautiful historic architecture of St Mary's Church dating back over a thousand years, plays host to some of the newest comics, most modern choreographers, some of the coolest DJ's and some of the freshest talent in Britain. Over the years we've promoted Coldplay, Eddie Izzard, Graham Norton, Harry Hill, Catherine Tate, Jo Brand, The Libertines, Ash, The Killers, The Strokes, Phill Jupitus, Mick Jones, Bill Bailey, Jack Dee, Count Arthur Strong - all before anyone had ever heard of them of course - plus the likes of jazz legend Ronnie Scott and even the late lamented and much loved Brian Johnston the cricket commentator. Our passion to present new work, bring great bands and comics to Colchester burns more brightly than ever. Our business is all about fresh ideas, new acts, new art forms and vibrant new ways of working. We can't stand still. We embrace the new, the quirky the original and yes, the surreal.

Each year a changing selection of 150 paintings and drawings from the museum’s significant collection of works by Sir Alfred Munnings is hung chronologically throughout eight rooms. From less familiar early apprentice poster designs to the explosive horseracing scenes for which Munnings is most well-known, the displays chart the artist’s life and six-decade career. Cafe, shop, plenty of free parking.

A listed Georgian building, The Minories is of local importance within the historic town of Colchester. Gifted to the town by the Victor Batte-Lay Trust, and occupied by Colchester School of Art. The Minories provides contemporary art and design in one of Colchester's most distinctive buildings. The building has gallery spaces and a beautiful walled garden, which is home to 'The Batte-Lay Tea Room'. The Minories is next door to firstsite, in the centre of the town's cultural quarter. Opening times: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm.

In our award-winning gallery and in our satellite venues, we show a diverse mix of the very best historic, modern and contemporary art from around the world, for everyone, every day. Firstsite is the East of England’s contemporary visual arts organisation where you can experience the most exciting developments in contemporary art, and explore the rich artistic legacy cultivated by the East of England’s unique landscape and character. Open all year – with free admission and a vibrant programme of exhibitions, films, workshops and events to spark your imagination. Alongside a café and shop, Firstsite is for everyone.