Explore contemporary and historic art exhibitions in this prestigious Academy with a family-friendly atmosphere, cafe, and dedicated activity spaces for children.

The Royal West of England Academy is a renowned art gallery and museum showcasing rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional artwork. Visitors can browse the 173 Annual Open Exhibition and other curated shows featuring works by academicians and emerging artists. The venue offers a welcoming environment for families, with a dedicated Family Activity Space designed to engage children and young visitors with art in an interactive way. The Academy provides comprehensive facilities for a full day out, including an on-site cafe serving refreshments and light meals. Educational programs are available for schools and learning groups, while regular family events such as "Scribble and Sketch" workshops encourage creative engagement once a month. The Drawing School offers courses and workshops for visitors of all abilities interested in developing artistic skills. With free entry to explore the galleries and multiple paid activities available, the RWA welcomes families, art enthusiasts, school groups, and casual visitors. The venue is accessible and pushchair-friendly, making it suitable for families with young children. Beyond exhibitions, the Academy functions as a vibrant cultural hub hosting events, corporate functions, and providing resources for artists and patrons.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

A

Andy Reynolds

a month ago

An excellent gallery. Newly refurbished with greatly improved accessibility and an excellent cafe. A varied set of exhibitions including the annual open submission each autumn. The gallery spaces are really beautiful in themselves. Enough room to show substantial pieces or a large exhibition without overwhelming. Two smaller rooms are usually free to enter. The main gallery usually charges a fee. There is an active friends group.

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eleanor gould

5 months ago

Generally have excellent and thought provoking exhibitions. Lovely cafe.

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P Ruffles

6 months ago

This is a great regional gallery. Its annual open exhibition is the equal of the London Royal Academy's, which I also go to. Various large and small gallery spaces. Great café. Modest shop.

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S Barnet

7 months ago

Lovely building. I checked out the free areas. I may get the pass at one point. There is a children's area in the basement which looked lovely.

T

Tom

2 years ago

Lovely historic building with attractive cafe. The annual open exhibition is very interesting and well presented. The art is also reasonably priced if anything takes your fancy.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026