A conveniently central and free attraction, the Victoria Art Gallery is an excellent place to spend a rainy morning in Bath or pass a peaceful hour of art appreciation. The gallery is well-run and well-presented, with plenty of information on hand about all the exhibits.
The museum’s collection includes a disparate assortment of bequests and gifts, with works dating from the last five centuries. Some of the most interesting paintings and prints date back to Bath’s heyday: portraits by Thomas Gainsborough, Johann Zoffany and Thomas Lawrence as well as Thomas Rowlandson’s caricatures of Bath life entitled Comforts of Bath. More recent views of Bath in the museum include paintings by John Nash. With other exhibits ranging from a watercolour by Burne-Jones to displays of ceramics, there should be plenty to interest the art-loving visitor.
As well as the permanent art collection, part of the museum is dedicated to temporary exhibitions. The museum organises events and tours throughout the year, as well as classes and activities for children.
The Victoria Art Gallery is located next to Pulteney Bridge, and is open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, and Sunday 1:30pm-5pm (closed on Mondays). Admission is free.