Nottingham Contemporary Art Tour

Nottingham Contemporary is a publicly funded contemporary art gallery that opened in 2007 in a converted lace factory. This behind-the-scenes tour includes curator-led commentary on current exhibitions and access to spaces usually closed to the public. You'll understand the curatorial decisions, see how artworks are installed, and learn about the gallery's role in the East Midlands art scene. Free exhibition entry is included, so you can return later to spend more time. Best for contemporary art enthusiasts. This is a easy activity lasting 2 hours. Group size: 6-18. You meet at Nottingham Contemporary main entrance. Key highlights: Hear directly from a curator about exhibition development, Access to storage and backstage areas, Learn about contemporary art conservation and installation.

Price: £18

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 6-18

Minimum age: 12+

Best for: contemporary art enthusiasts

Best time: Tuesday–Sunday, 2:00pm tours. Avoid opening weeks of new exhibitions if you want to avoid crowds (though curator talks are more detailed then).

Meeting point: Nottingham Contemporary main entrance

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

2:00pm Gather at main entrance; introductions and safety briefing - Confirm group size; guide explains access restrictions and gallery layout.

2:10pm–2:40pm Main gallery space tour with curator commentary - See current exhibitions. Curator explains artistic choices, installation methods, and the artists' intent.

2:40pm–3:00pm Access to backstage/storage areas - See how artworks are stored, how installations are built, and conservation practices. Some spaces may have limited access depending on ongoing work.

3:00pm–3:20pm Q&A with curator and discussion - Ask questions about contemporary art trends, the gallery's acquisitions, and upcoming exhibitions.

3:20pm–3:30pm Tour concludes; you may stay to explore exhibitions further - Your free exhibition entry allows you to return to any gallery at your own pace.

The whole experience takes 2 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Nottingham Contemporary main entrance.

• Hear directly from a curator about exhibition development
• Access to storage and backstage areas
• Learn about contemporary art conservation and installation
• Free exhibition entry included (usable on tour date or later)
• Converted lace factory building is architecturally notable
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible throughout main gallery and most backstage areas. Lift access to all levels. Some narrow passages in storage areas may be difficult for mobility devices. Confirm accessibility needs when booking.

What is included: Guided tour with curator or senior gallery staff, Access to backstage areas (subject to current programming), Free entry to all current exhibitions.

Not included: Gift shop purchases, Café or food service, Parking. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Notebook if you want to record curator insights, Phone with ringer off (quiet spaces for concentration), Comfortable shoes for standing and light walking. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Tuesday–Sunday, 2:00pm tours. Avoid opening weeks of new exhibitions if you want to avoid crowds (though curator talks are more detailed then)..

Tip: Free exhibition entry included

Tip: Photography restrictions apply

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible throughout main gallery and most backstage areas. Lift access to all levels. Some narrow passages in storage areas may be difficult for mobility devices. Confirm accessibility needs when booking..

Operator: Arts Council East Midlands

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Galleries of Justice Museum (5 min walk)
• Lace Market (2 min walk)
• National Justice Museum (7 min walk)

This activity is run by Arts Council East Midlands.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 7 days before tour. Less than 7 days: 50% refund. No refund 48 hours before..

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible throughout main gallery and most backstage areas. Lift access to all levels. Some narrow passages in storage areas may be difficult for mobility devices. Confirm accessibility needs when booking..

Best time to go: Tuesday–Sunday, 2:00pm tours. Avoid opening weeks of new exhibitions if you want to avoid crowds (though curator talks are more detailed then)..

Is photography allowed on the Nottingham Contemporary tour?

Photography is restricted. You cannot photograph most artworks inside the gallery (copyright and artist rights). External building photos are permitted. Check with your guide on specific policies for each exhibition section.

Do I need to book in advance for the curator tour?

Yes. Tours run on scheduled dates and times and frequently sell out, especially on weekends. Book at least 5 days ahead. Walk-ups are not guaranteed spots.

What is Nottingham Contemporary housed in?

The gallery is in a converted lace factory building in the Lace Market area, a historic neighbourhood of Nottingham. The structure dates from the 19th century and preserves industrial architecture while housing modern art exhibitions.