William Morris Gallery

We were greeted with a smile and directions as to how we should explore the gallery. Admission is free. There is basically no parking, just 3 disabled parking spots available but to use them you have to call in advance and let them know you're coming. It's a short walk from Hoe Street. They have the Islamic Art Exhibition up and it's fantastic. The gallery also has a little cafe and a park at the back so good for little kids who need a run around afterwards.

Beautiful gallery dedicated to William Morris (1834-1896). Morris lived here front 1848 to 1856. I loved the current exhibition on the influence of Islamic art on William Morris. The exhibition makes a compelling case that Islamic art had a strong influence on William Morris. I also enjoyed the videos by contemporary muslim artists talking about the subject. Great gift store.

Free entry to this very nice design museum which also has a cafe and shop. The temporary and permanent exhibitions were both excellent. I’m not into design at all but still enjoyed the visit. Then walked in the park outside for some fresh air.

It is a beautiful gallery with some outstanding art and design work by William Morris. It has a large outside green space/park near woods. It has a small cafe with friendly staff and hot food and beverages. I loved visiting the Gallery and the ongoing exhibition on William Morris and Islamic Art.

Really enjoyed this gallery, which had a surprisingly insightful and well presented Islamic art exhibition. The information accompanying the artifacts do show a good level of research put into the exhibition. It was also interesting finding out about William Morris’ life. Lots to see with friendly staff. Once you’re done, just go for a walk through Lloyd Park just behind the former Mansion house. The Islamic Arts exhibition is temporary.

The William Morris Gallery is a true gem for anyone interested in the arts, design, and the legacy of William Morris, the iconic figure of the Arts and Crafts movement. Located in a beautiful Georgian house set amidst the lush parkland of Lloyd Park, the gallery offers a serene and inspiring escape from the city’s bustle. The gallery is wonderfully curated, guiding visitors through Morris’s life and the breadth of his work, including his contributions to textile design, printing, and socialist philosophy. Each room captures a different aspect of his legacy, from intricately designed wallpaper patterns to furniture and stained glass, showcasing the incredible range of Morris's creativity. The immersive exhibits are thoughtfully arranged, making the experience engaging for both design enthusiasts and those new to his work. One of the highlights is the interactive displays and multimedia elements, which allow visitors to gain hands-on insight into Morris’s design processes and philosophies. There’s also a fascinating collection of his sketches and early works, which provides a glimpse into his creative mind. The gallery doesn’t only focus on Morris; it also delves into the broader Arts and Crafts movement, demonstrating how Morris’s work inspired generations of artists and designers. After exploring the exhibits, visitors can relax at the charming on-site café, which offers a great selection of teas, coffees, and cakes, and overlooks the picturesque park grounds. The park itself is worth exploring, offering a lovely setting for a stroll or picnic. With its combination of rich historical content, beautiful design, and a peaceful location, the William Morris Gallery is a fantastic destination. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of design, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, this gallery is a must-visit.

Little gallery about life and legacy of William Morris in a Georgian villa that was his childhood home. Lovely cafe with gorgeous views over Lloyd park. Shop sells a rather smaller than expected range of Morris-themed items. Easy to get to by public transport.

A must-see for anyone who appreciates the decorative arts, for anyone looking for people who dared to live their dreams and change the state of things and confront the standard. William Morris was all this and much more. The visit is inspiring, I was particularly touched that he believed in his wife and encouraged her to go further at a time when women were appendages to their husbands and female education was not considered necessary or useful. What's more, he believed in other women and provided trades so that they could be more autonomous. After visiting the gallery, I came to understand why there are so many antique shops in the neighbourhood and why Morris' prints can be found in many local businesses. There's a market that sells post-walk treats and a souvenir shop for all budgets. Entry to the permanent exhibition is free and the staff are friendly and helpful.