Arts and culture
Bowie, Beatles, Burns, Bronte and Bush. Just five of thousands of cultural icons heralding from these fair isles, but it’s not only homegrown talent that makes Britain a beacon of culture. Galleries and museums from Glasgow in the north to Cornwall in the south are famous for showcasing emerging artists from across the globe.
An art and culture showcase
The Reel Store
Immerse yourself in the country’s first permanent digital art gallery. Be surrounded by the beauty of outer space in this, it’s opening exhibition on outer space created in collaboration with NASA. Others to come include a wave and light exhibition into the mysteries of the human body.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
As well as live concerts and spectacular Baroque architecture, Kelvingrove is home to 8,000 treasured exhibits too. Think Ancient Egyptian mummies, world-class artworks, and original pieces by Scottish designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Featuring over 500,000 objects from around the world, this university museum is a joy to explore – and hosts talks and workshops too. Its collections include everything from Ancient Egyptian sarcophagi to Impressionist masterpieces; modern art to Renaissance sculptures; rare coins to Asian arts.
Portmeirion, Gwynedd
A little slice of the Amalfi Coast in North Wales, this quirky resort was designed in the style of an Italian village by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. Visit for the day, or stay in its plush hotels and suites: they’re dotted throughout the village, many overlooking the water.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Discover the childhood home of Britain’s most famous playwright, William Shakespeare.
Tour this fascinating home in the heart of town and discover the place that shaped the young bard – the third of eight children belonging to John and Mary Arden.
Why Britain's best for art and culture
Oh, and we’ve not even mentioned our jam-packed festival season or countless special events and free cultural activities found in unexpected spaces. Where else can you see Burning Man’s wacky sculptures sprawled the across pristine parklands of 16th century stately home or spot some of Banksy’s earliest and most famous artworks for free? We’ve got a feeling you’ll be coming back for your Great British culture fix again and again once you’ve discovered some of our top recommendations…
Top art and culture experiences
Top art and culture destinations
Featured festivals
Brighton Festivals
Kick off the festival season with not one but three festivals in May. Opt for Brighton Festival for all things highbrow, Brighton Fringe for cabaret and comedy and, The Great Escape for bands on the cusp of stardom.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
Be wowed by Europe’s largest hot air balloon festival which sees 100 colourful balloons ascend the skies of Bristol every August at this free event. Fancy a ride? Flights available throughout the festival for a fee.
Royal National Mòd
Enjoy all things Gaelic at a festival that celebrates a eclectic range of traditions, including live music, Highland dancing and shinty – a traditional Scottish sport similar to hockey.
Get in to the Gaelic groove
Jorvik Viking Festival
Celebrate ‘Jolabot’ at the largest Viking festival in Europe with battle re-enactments, combat performances, walking tours and even a Viking market held in locations across the city.
Enjoy nine days of Norse fun
