Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool

The Walker Art Gallery, located in Liverpool, boasts one of the largest art collections in England outside London. As part of the National Museums Liverpool group, it has been a cultural cornerstone since its establishment in 1877. The gallery is housed in an impressive neo-classical building on William Brown Street, surrounded by cultural landmarks such as the William Brown Library, World Museum Liverpool, and Saint George’s Hall.

The Walker Art Gallery began in 1819 with 37 paintings from William Roscoe's collection, saved after his financial downfall. Over time, Liverpool Town Council expanded the collection with works from the Liverpool Academy and Society for the Fine Arts. Named after philanthropist Sir Andrew Barclay Walker, it opened on 6 September 1877, designed by Cornelius Sherlock and H.H. Vale. Expanded in 1884 and 1933, it was refurbished in 2002. During WWII, the building served the Ministry of Food, with its collection safely dispersed. It reopened in 1951, integrating key works and post-war additions.

The Walker Art Gallery showcases artwork spanning centuries, including Italian and Netherlandish pieces (1300–1550) by Pittoni and Rembrandt, European art (1550–1900) by Poussin and Degas, and British Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite works like Rossetti's Dante’s Dream. Modern highlights feature Freud, Hockney, Gilbert, and George, alongside sculptures such as Degas’ La Masseuse. Unique pieces include Stuart Sutcliffe’s only painting on display in Liverpool and Banksy’s provocative Cardinal Sin, a commentary on Church scandals.

In 1986, the Walker Art Gallery achieved national status as part of the National Museums and Galleries on Merseyside. Its proximity to Tate Liverpool, located at the Albert Dock, makes it a must-visit for art enthusiasts exploring the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Why You Should Visit:
To enjoy a really good selection of free exhibits that are easy to navigate, as well as additional exhibits you can pay for.
Even though the presentation is somewhat dated, the depth, variety, and quality of the art more than makeup for it.
The café is good value and situated in the rear of the foyer, therefore convenient and with plenty of atmosphere.

Tip:
There are usefully-sized lockers on the ground floor to the left of the café – pay £1 coin for a token at the gallery entrance.