Based in the historic old courthouse in the market place in Ambleside, this gallery occupies three floors. Having established a strong reputation over the last 30 years for supporting high quality arts and craft workmanship, the Old Courthouse Gallery continues to represent all that is good about contemporary arts in the Lake District and the UK in general. The range of work displayed is extensive and covers multiple media - woodworking, paintings, glass, ceramics, sculpture and jewellery. Whether you are a collector or someone simply looking for a gift to remind you, or a loved one, of your visit to the Lakes, the Old Courthouse Gallery is a treasure trove of unique independent artistic wonders.
Where is The Old Courthouse Gallery located?
The Old Courthosue Gallery is in a historic building right in the centre of the busy Lake District town of Ambleside. The gallery is surrounded by the fells that are the inspiration for many of the artists and just a stones' throw from Lake Windermere.
If you're interested in history and culture, then Dove Cottage (Wordsworth), Brantwood Estate (Ruskin) and Blackwell House (Arts & Crafts) are all nearby. Ambleside is also home to the award-winning Zeffirelli's Cinema and Restaurant and boasts three Michelin-starred restaurants!
What is the history of The Old Courthouse Gallery to the present day?
The building that the gallery occupies was erected in 1856 as the town's courthouse. By the early 20th Century the court had been moved from this location and in 1919 it was converted into Penrice's Drapers store.Several members of the Penrice family shared in the running of the business as it evolved from a general drapers to a specialist clothing outfitter until it closed in 1994 having served residents and visitors for 75 years.
The Old Courthouse Gallery first opened in 1994 and was created and established by the Brammall family. The premises were totally renovated and the magnificent upstairs space was opened up, to bathe the exhibits in natural light. A mezzanine and bespoke shop fittings in wrought iron were created by Chris Brammall.
The gallery went from strength to strength over the next twenty years and the business stayed within the family until Sylvia and Andrew retired in 2016. At that time a new chapter began when the current owners, Paul & Caroline Jones, took over the business.
