Clare Willcocks
07 February 2023
Whatever your artistic taste, there are plenty of opportunities to whet your appetite here in Southwold… starting with a wander around some of our popular galleries.
Whether you have an appreciation for abstract art, or a high regard for realism, you’ll find a plethora of interesting pieces to admire and perhaps even take home. Sculpture, ceramics, textiles, jewellery and crafts can all be found within Southwold’s galleries, the fun part is following your nose and discovering these artistic treasures for yourself.
With so many galleries to visit, and even more distractions en route (think cafes, pubs and shops galore!), you might just want to stay a little longer. Why not have a browse of our holiday cottages in Southold to inspire your next holiday, then read on for our round-up of Southwold’s galleries.
Gallery Thea
Images courtesy of Gallery Thea
On Station Road, Gallery Thea is a studio and ceramics shop where Thea Cutting produces hand-drawn illustrations on earthenware bisque pottery, creating ceramics to celebrate a range of special occasions for customers all over the world. If you fancy having a go yourself, there are studio tables where visitors can decorate their own pottery.
Best for: Pottery
Address: 3 Hurren Terrace, 5 Station Rd IP18 6AX
Craftco
Images courtesy of Craftco
At the beginning of the High Street, close to the Adnams Cellar and Kitchen store, the Craftco shop is an outlet for contemporary crafts and applied arts, all sourced from East Anglian makers. Run as a co-operative, the enterprise began in 1987 when ten local craftspeople joined forces. On the ground floor, you’ll find unique prints, ceramics, jewellery, textiles and toys, while the upstairs gallery is home to a number of exhibitions throughout the year.
Best for: Local contemporary crafts
Address: 40A High St IP18 6AE
Southwold Gallery
Images courtesy of Southwold Gallery
Further along the High Street, Karen Keable’s Southwold Gallery is always full of colourful paintings, prints and canvases, many inspired by the people and places seen around the town. There’s jewellery, sculpture and driftwood creations too – something for everyone!
Best for: An eclectic mix of artwork
Address: 64A High St, Southwold IP18 6DN
Buckenham Galleries
Images courtesy of Buckenham Galleries
One of East Anglia's leading contemporary art galleries, Buckenham Galleries offers a wide variety of paintings, ceramics, jewellery, glass work, sculptures and bespoke furniture, all housed in one of the oldest buildings in Southwold. Beneath, the Buckenham Coffee House is situated in the 16th-century cellar – ponder your purchase over a speciality tea or coffee and a cream cake.
Best for: Coffee and a browse
Address: Buckenham House, 81 High St IP18 6DS
Serena Hall Gallery
Images courtesy of Serena Hall Gallery
Colourful, contemporary crafts and artworks will draw you into the Serena Hall Gallery on Queen Street – there’s a lot of local coastal and countryside influence, and a sense of fun throughout. Seasonal exhibitions and the constant addition of new works keep everything fresh. Look out for Serena’s own joyful paintings that celebrate her love of the seaside and, particularly, her home-town of Southwold.
Best for: Vibrant coast-inspired art
Address: 16 Queen St IP18 6EQ
Book an arty break in Southwold
Whether you’re an artist looking for inspiration on the Suffolk coast, or you prefer to peruse the paintings of others, you’ll love our characterful cottages based in Southwold. Many of them have local art on the walls, and offer the perfect base for exploring the galleries and artistic enclaves of Southwold and the surrounding area. Pop the kettle on and enjoy a browse!
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.