Hatton Gallery: Newcastle’s Hub for Modern and Contemporary Art
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant modern art scene at Hatton Gallery, where historic charm meets contemporary creativity on a university campus.
Located on Newcastle University’s historic campus, the Hatton Gallery is a compact yet vibrant art space showcasing a diverse collection of modern and contemporary artworks. With free entry and a programme of rotating exhibitions, talks, and student showcases, it offers an engaging cultural experience in the heart of the city. The gallery’s recent refurbishment blends historic architecture with modern design, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
A brief summary to Hatton Gallery
- King's Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, GB
- +441912778877
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit Monday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm; the gallery is closed on Sundays.
- Entry is free, but consider making a donation to support exhibitions and educational programmes.
- Check out the annual student exhibitions to see emerging local talent.
- Explore the gallery shop for unique art-inspired jewellery, books, and homewares.
- The gallery is fully accessible with lift access and disability-friendly entrances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Metro and Bus
Take the Tyne and Wear Metro to Central Station, then enjoy a 10-15 minute walk across Newcastle University campus to the gallery. Frequent bus services also run along nearby routes with stops within a 5-minute walk. Tickets cost around £2.50-£3.50 GBP depending on the service.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Newcastle city centre to the Hatton Gallery takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £5 and £10 GBP. The gallery’s accessible entrances make drop-off convenient.
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Car
Driving is possible but parking near the university campus can be limited and often paid. Nearby public car parks charge approximately £3-£6 GBP per hour. Allow extra time for walking from parking to the gallery.
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Walking
If staying in central Newcastle, walking to the Hatton Gallery is pleasant and takes about 15-20 minutes through the university precinct with mostly flat terrain and accessible pathways.
Hatton Gallery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hatton Gallery
A Cultural Beacon within Newcastle University
The Hatton Gallery stands proudly within the Fine Art Building of Newcastle University, nestled on King's Road. Its roots stretch back to the early 20th century, making it one of the region’s longstanding cultural institutions. The gallery’s location on a historic university campus lends it an academic and creative atmosphere, fostering close ties with students and emerging artists. This connection is evident in its annual exhibitions showcasing student work, bridging education and public engagement.An Eclectic Collection Spanning Centuries
Though compact in size, the Hatton Gallery houses an impressive collection of over 3,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings. The collection spans from the 14th century to the present day, with notable pieces by artists such as Francis Bacon, Richard Hamilton, Palma Giovane, Thomas Bewick, Eduardo Paolozzi, and Victor Pasmore. A highlight is the iconic Merz Barn Wall by Kurt Schwitters, a significant 20th-century artwork carefully conserved during the gallery’s major refurbishment.Modern Renovation Meets Historic Charm
In October 2017, the gallery underwent a £3.8 million redevelopment that preserved its Grade II listed architectural features while introducing contemporary exhibition spaces. The renovation enhanced visitor facilities, including accessible entrances and a new learning space, allowing for greater community interaction and educational programming. The blend of historic and modern elements creates a welcoming environment that respects tradition while embracing innovation.Dynamic Exhibitions and Engaging Events
The Hatton Gallery curates a changing programme of modern and contemporary art exhibitions, often featuring local, national, and international artists. Alongside exhibitions, the gallery hosts artist and curator talks, workshops, and family-friendly activities, making it a vibrant hub for cultural exchange. These events enrich the visitor experience and deepen appreciation for contemporary art practices.Access and Visitor Experience
Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm, the gallery offers free admission with donations welcomed to support its mission. Its central location near Newcastle city centre and accessible facilities, including a lift and disability-friendly entrances, make it easy for diverse audiences to visit. The gallery shop adds an extra dimension, offering unique jewellery, books, and homewares inspired by the arts.Community and Cultural Impact
As a university-affiliated institution managed by North East Museums, the Hatton Gallery plays a vital role in sustaining art, culture, and heritage in the region. It actively engages young people, especially those aged 16 to 21, through tailored programmes and competitions. By fostering creativity and education, the gallery contributes significantly to Newcastle’s cultural landscape and supports the next generation of artists.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Claremont Tower
0.1 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
Old Library Building
0.1 km
A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.
King's Gate
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Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
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A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
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A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
1914 Monument
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A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
The Tower Cafe Ltd
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Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
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A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Iles Tours (Iles Group Ltd)
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Explore Newcastle upon Tyne with Iles Tours, where expert guides unveil the city's rich history and culture through unforgettable experiences.
W.D.Stephens Memorial
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Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
Grey St
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Newcastle's finest street—a sweeping curve of neoclassical elegance and cultural heritage.
Morden Tower
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A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.
Blackfriars Medieval Friary
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Medieval Dominican friary where kings once stayed, now a living centre of craft, culture, and cuisine.
Herber Tower
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A well-preserved 13th-century drum tower from Newcastle’s medieval town walls, once a guild meeting place and now a quiet monument in the city centre.
Oriental Garden
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Experience the serene beauty of the Oriental Garden in Newcastle upon Tyne, a peaceful escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora.
Unmissable attractions to see
Farrell Centre
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Explore Newcastle’s architectural heritage and urban future at the vibrant, free-to-visit Farrell Centre.
Great North Museum: Hancock
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Discover natural wonders, ancient civilizations, and local heritage at Newcastle’s free Great North Museum: Hancock.
Civic Centre Gardens
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A peaceful urban oasis blending nature, art, and heritage in the heart of Newcastle’s Civic Centre.
Campus Cat
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Historic Grade II listed church in Newcastle with rich non-conformist roots and stunning Victorian architecture.
Eldon Square
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Newcastle’s bustling city-centre shopping and dining hub with over 140 stores and 30+ eateries, welcoming all with style and inclusivity.
Leazes Park
0.5 km
Newcastle’s oldest Victorian park, a tranquil green retreat with a scenic lake and rich heritage in the city centre.
Book stack
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A striking Gothic Revival landmark blending Newcastle’s religious heritage with modern academic life on Northumberland Road.
Fenwick Newcastle
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Newcastle’s iconic five-floor department store blending historic charm, luxury shopping, and a renowned food hall in the city centre.
Old Eldon Square
0.6 km
Newcastle’s premier indoor shopping centre blending rich heritage with modern retail and vibrant dining under one roof.
Exhibition Park
0.6 km
A historic green oasis in Newcastle city centre blending Victorian charm, active recreation, and vibrant cultural events.
TK Maxx
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Discover unbeatable deals on designer fashion and homeware at TK Maxx, Monument Mall’s vibrant department store in Newcastle.
The Strawberry
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A vibrant traditional pub by St James' Park, offering great beers, hearty food, and a warm Newcastle welcome.
The Seeing Stone
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Discover The Seeing Stone, a tranquil and intriguing outdoor attraction nestled in the lush parks of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Laing Art Gallery
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Discover Newcastle’s artistic heritage through historic and contemporary masterpieces at the Laing Art Gallery, a vibrant cultural hub in the city centre.
Newcastle upon Tyne - City Centre
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Discover Newcastle upon Tyne City Centre: where rich history meets vibrant urban life along the scenic River Tyne.
Essential places to dine
Red Mezze
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A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Fuego
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Experience authentic Mediterranean tapas, Napoli-style pizzas, and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Newcastle at Fuego by Fenwick.
El Coto
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
The Botanist Newcastle
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Discover The Botanist Newcastle: a lush botanical bar and restaurant blending inventive cocktails, seasonal food, and live music in a secret garden setting.
George's Fish Shack, Newcastle
0.6 km
Authentic British fish and chips in the heart of Newcastle’s lively Eldon Square shopping district.
Chaophraya
0.6 km
Elegant Thai dining with rooftop views over Grey’s Monument, perfect for special occasions and vibrant city experiences.
As You Like It
0.6 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
No28
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at No28 in Newcastle – where tapas meets cocktails in an unforgettable bar and nightclub experience.
Gaucho Newcastle
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Experience premium Argentinian steaks and vibrant South American flavors in a stylish, sophisticated Newcastle setting.
Côte Newcastle
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Experience refined French cuisine and charming brasserie vibes in Newcastle’s vibrant city centre on historic Grainger Street.
Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
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Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Thai street food right in the heart of Newcastle’s city center.
Lola Jeans
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Lola Jeans Newcastle offers award-winning American comfort food, signature cocktails, and a vibrant, art-filled atmosphere in the city centre.
Turtle Bay Newcastle
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Fat Hippo Newcastle
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Bold, creative burgers and inclusive menu options in Newcastle’s lively city centre hotspot.
The Muddler
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Stylish Pan-Asian small plates and inventive cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s vibrant Grey Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The One World Shop
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Time Antiques
0.3 km
Discover authentic antiques and collectibles with expert care at Time Antiques, a historic gem in Newcastle’s vibrant Antique Centre.
Elula
0.3 km
Discover Newcastle’s mystical gift shop offering unique jewellery, crystals, and spiritual treasures in a cozy, artistic setting with a welcoming café below.
The Vintage Scene Newcastle
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at The Vintage Scene Newcastle, a curated boutique for eclectic style lovers in the city center.
Eldon Garden Shopping Centre.
0.4 km
Discover the bustling Eldon Garden Shopping Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Geordie Witch
0.5 km
Discover unique local gifts and mystical treasures at The Geordie Witch, a charming and welcoming shop in Newcastle’s Eldon Square.
The Works
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Affordable books, arts, crafts, and toys in the heart of Newcastle’s bustling Eldon Square Shopping Centre.
Coast
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Contemporary feminine fashion and occasion wear in Newcastle's vibrant city centre shopping district.
Menkind
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Discover quirky gifts and gadgets for men at Menkind, nestled in Newcastle’s iconic Eldon Square shopping centre.
Jay's Boutique & Gifts
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Discover bespoke tailoring and unique gifts combined in a charming boutique at Newcastle’s Upper Princess Square.
Be More Geek
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Explore a treasure trove of pop culture collectibles and geek merchandise in the heart of Newcastle’s Eldon Square shopping centre.
Friday Vintage
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Award-winning vintage boutique celebrating curated fashion from the 1940s to 2000s in historic Old Eldon Square.
Urban Outfitters
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Waceland
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Cath Kidston
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mean-Eyed Cat
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The Exchange
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Bar Loco
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The Wobbly Duck
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A cozy, quirky micropub in Newcastle’s Old Eldon Square, famed for its eclectic ales and welcoming atmosphere.
Holy Hobo
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Jesmond's bold bar for monster burgers, craft pours, bottomless brunches, and beats till 2am—where quirky comfort meets non-stop nightlife energy.
Bealim House
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Newcastle’s unique gin distillery, bar, and eatery blending industrial heritage with vibrant social dining and exceptional gin experiences.
The Alchemist Newcastle
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The Collingwood Arms under new management
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Duke Of Northumberland (The Clock)
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The WonderBar
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Lady Greys
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MOJO
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MOJO Newcastle: Rock 'n' roll cocktails, American comfort food, and lively entertainment in The Gate’s vibrant nightlife hub.
The Mushroom Bar
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A compact, budget-friendly club-bar on Grainger Street that keeps late-night DJs, drink deals and a party crowd at its heart.
The Market Lane
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Affectionately the 'Monkey Bar,' this Pilgrim Street pub pours quality pints and fosters lively vibes with sports screens, live music, and classic British charm in Newcastle's heart.
All Bar One Newcastle
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Stylish Grey Street bar serving coffee by day and cocktails by night, with tapas and wines in Newcastle's buzzing heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cosmic Ballroom
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Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Sinners
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Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
World HQ
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A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Popworld - Newcastle
0.9 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
1.0 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
1.0 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
1.0 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
1.0 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
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Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
1.1 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
1.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Tup Tup Palace
1.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
TheCUT Newcastle
1.1 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Powerhouse
1.3 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Digital
1.4 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
