The Northumberland Open Exhibition
Northumberland Open Exhibition 2026, Woodhorn Museum, Ashington
If there’s one cultural event to get on your radar before May, it’s the Northumberland Open Exhibition at Woodhorn Museum in Ashington. The largest exhibition of its kind in the region, this year’s show brings together 568 works by more than 280 artists spanning painting, photography, sculpture, glasswork and everything in between. From bold experimental pieces that stop you in your tracks to quieter, more contemplative works, the range and quality on show is a proper reminder of just how much creative talent exists across the North East.
Housed in the stunning Workshop Galleries of this former colliery building, there is something genuinely special about seeing contemporary art displayed within the bones of Northumberland’s industrial heritage. This year’s overall winner is photographer Andy Martin with The Circus and the Graveyard, Peterlee (2024), and most works are available to buy if something catches your eye.
No booking needed, just turn up. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm, until Sunday 10th May. Included with annual pass admission, under-18s go free, and annual passes can be picked up on the day.
