The magnificent Grade II* listed building of the Royal West of England Academy Art Gallery (RWA) is open all year round. Built in 1844, it was Bristol’s first art gallery and boasts stunning top-lit art galleries described as among the best exhibition spaces in the country. The exhibition programme includes a variety of shows, which appeal to all tastes from historic paintings to digital and new media and including painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpture. The increasingly popular Annual Open Exhibition, taking place in autumn, is the largest open art show in the region. It includes all types of work, such as portraits, still life, abstracts, and landscapes most of which are for sale.

The RWA has its own collection of fine art, which it displays in exhibitions throughout the year. For an up-to-date preview of what’s on visit the RWA website www.rwa.org.uk. The family-friendly cafe is also a fantastic place to eat, complete with a pay are for the kids! Find out more here.

Family

The RWA welcomes families of all ages to visit and engage with exhibitions and get involved in a range of creative activities and events. Scribble and Sketch are monthly creative activity sessions for families that take place at the RWA, Easton Community Centre and Redcliffe Children's Centre. Often inspired by the current exhibitions, this morning of fun and exploration allows children and adults to experiment, create and play together.

For more structured children's workshops, have a look at our Junior Drawing School programme. This will include studio and gallery-based sessions aimed at developing artistic knowledge, skills and techniques, from drawing to printmaking. Further information and booking details for Scribble and Sketch and Junior Drawing School.

Exhibitions at the RWA are family friendly and everyone is encouraged to bring sketchbooks into the galleries. Our Art Wall and Art Trolley, situated on the first floor landing, include a range of materials and activities designed to help you enjoy exploring the exhibitions and to inspire you to get creative!

Admission prices:

• Adult Full Price: £8.90 (including a voluntary donation of 80p)
• Adult Full Price without donation £8
• Concessions: £4.90 
• SGS, UoB, BOVTS & UWE students and Under 18s: FREE

Prices include a voluntary donation which means that the RWA can claim Gift Aid on the whole ticket price, giving an extra 25p per £1 spent, and enabling world-class exhibitions and inspirational events for all.

For just £15, the RWA Art Pass gives you unlimited access to all exhibitions for one year. Find out more...

To become a Friend of the RWA for just £35, with unlimited access to all exhibitions and invitations to Private Views and other exclusive events, find out more here here 

National Art Pass holders are entitled to 50% off entry to exhibitions at the RWA. For more information, contact the Welcome Desk on 0117 973 5129.

For updated information visit: https://www.rwa.org.uk/