Name: Graves Gallery
Rating: 5.0

Graves Gallery

Surrey Street, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S1 1XZ, England

1-90 Years

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Description

The Graves Gallery is a peaceful art sanctuary tucked away on the top floor of Sheffield's Central Library. Established in 1934 through the generosity of local businessman J.G. Graves, it serves as the home for the city’s impressive fine art collection. As one of the best things to do with kids in Sheffield, it offers a calm and creative environment where families can discover everything from 16th-century portraits to bold contemporary abstractions.

Visiting the gallery is a budget-friendly option for families as admission is entirely free, though donations are welcomed to support the museum's work. Because it is located in a Grade II listed building, visitors often describe it as a "hidden secret" that provides a quiet escape from the busy city centre. It is an ideal spot for parents looking to introduce their children to the arts in a relaxed, non-overwhelming setting.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, the Graves Gallery combines historical grandeur with engaging modern displays. The gallery features an ever-changing programme of temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection, including unique works like Grayson Perry’s 8-metre-long Comfort Blanket. It is a cultural must-visit for any resident or visitor to South Yorkshire wanting to explore the artistic heart of the city.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Key Features

Interactive Sensory Play: While primarily a traditional gallery, the Bloomberg Connects digital guide provides an interactive way for kids to explore the artworks through their own devices.
Educational Day Out: The gallery offers a chronological tour through centuries of art history, making it a valuable resource for children studying art or history.
Art for All: The space is designed to be inclusive, offering large print labels and folding stools to ensure the collection is accessible to everyone.

Top 5 Highlights

Grayson Perry’s Comfort Blanket: This massive 8-metre-long tapestry is a colourful and detailed exploration of British identity that fascinates children with its scale and intricate patterns.
The "Flock of Birds" Installation: Before even entering the gallery, look down the library stairwell to see Seiko Kinoshita’s stunning blue and purple installation that looks like an excited flock of birds.
Works by Famous Masters: The collection boasts impressive pieces by renowned artists such as J.M.W. Turner, LS Lowry, and even a loan from Jarvis Cocker by Damien Hirst.
Colour, Form & Line Display: This continuing display explores how vision can be manipulated through colour, featuring works by Bridget Riley that are particularly engaging for visual learners.
The Historic Lift: Reaching the top floor via the library's traditional old lift is often a highlight for younger visitors before they even see the art.

Detailed Inventory

Permanent Art Collection: Traces art history from the 16th century to the present day.
Temporary Exhibition Galleries: Host a rotating schedule of modern photography and contemporary art.
Bloomberg Connects Guide: A free digital guide with extra facts and audio tours for visitors.
Visual Story Guide: A pre-visit resource to help families with SEN requirements plan their trip.
Large Print Labels: Available in all galleries to assist those with visual impairments.
Folding Stools: Provided on request for those who need a rest while sketching or viewing.
Gift Shop: Located at the exit, selling postcards, artist materials, and local gift ideas.
Lift Access: Ensuring the top-floor gallery is reachable for those with buggies or limited mobility.
The Central Library: Located on the ground floor, offering a great space to browse books after your visit.
Library Theatre: A basement venue that occasionally hosts talks, plays, and family events.

Facilities

Toilets: There are no toilets within the gallery itself; the nearest accessible toilets are in the Millennium Gallery (300m away).
Food Options: Food and drink are not permitted inside the gallery. The closest café is Ambulo, located across the road at the Millennium Gallery.
Breastfeeding: Sheffield Museums provides a welcoming and supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers.
Pro-Tip (Entry): If the main stairs are too much, use the step-free entrance on Arundel Gate and ring the doorbell for assistance from the porters.
Quiet Times: Tuesday and Wednesday mornings are typically the quietest times to visit if you want to avoid crowds.
Parking: The nearest car park is the Britannia car park opposite the Crucible Theatre on Arundel Gate.

What to see

What Visitors Love

The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to introduce children to art without the noise of larger museums.
The fact that it is free makes it an easy, high-quality addition to a day out in the city.
Many enjoy the "secret" feel of the location and the beautiful historic architecture of the building.

What Visitors Don't Like

The lack of on-site toilets and a café can be a challenge when visiting with very young children.
As a Grade II listed building, some areas can feel a bit cramped for large double buggies.
Opening hours are somewhat limited, as the gallery is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Graves Gallery worth it for toddlers?: While older children will get more from the art, toddlers will enjoy the library on the ground floor and the colourful Kinoshita installation. It is a good "quick stop" but lacks a dedicated soft play or interactive area.
How long does a visit take?: Most visitors spend between 60 and 90 minutes exploring the different galleries and the library.
Is there buggy parking?: There is no dedicated buggy park, but the building is accessible via lift, allowing you to take a buggy up to the gallery floor.

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Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. (Closed Sundays, Mondays, and Bank Holidays).

Address: Surrey Street, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S1 1XZ, England

Post Code: S1 1XZ

Council: Sheffield

County: South Yorkshire

By Car: Use postcode S1 1XZ. Follow signs for the city centre from the M1 (Junction 33).
By Train: A 10-minute walk from Sheffield Station. Walk up the hill by Sheffield Hallam University and cross Arundel Gate.
By Bike: Cycle parking is available next to the Children’s Library entrance on Surrey Street.