Museums & Galleries

Plymouth's main museum and art gallery is currently closed as Plymouth works towards the development of The Box - a major new visitor attraction that will proudly bring to life Plymouth’s rich and fascinating history.

The Box, Plymouth

The Box is a major new cultural and heritage attraction which is set to open in Plymouth’s city centre in spring 2020.

The Museum and Art Gallery, former Central Library and St Luke’s Church buildings are being transformed into a venue and visitor experience fit for the 21^st century.

A series of large-scale galleries will highlight the city’s fine art, decorative art, natural history, human history, film, photography and archive collections.

Additional galleries will be dedicated to a changing programme of exciting temporary exhibitions that mark key anniversaries and showcase the work of high profile artists.

There will be café, retail, education and research spaces, a wide ranging events and activities programme, plus a new piazza on Tavistock Place.

This major redevelopment scheme is led by Plymouth City Council in partnership with the University of Plymouth and the National Museum of the Royal Navy.

It is supported by the City Council, Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England, Coastal Communities Fund, Garfield Weston Foundation, University of Plymouth, Wolfson Foundation, British Film Institute and Interreg.

The Box will open as part of the city’s Mayflower 400 commemorative programme. One of its first exhibitions will be ‘Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy’ - a major show that explores the myths and uncovers new meanings connected to the Mayflower’s epic journey in 1620.

The centre will also breathe new life into some of our most influential historic figures such as Scott of the Antarctic and Sir France Drake, as well as share some of our most intriguing historic documents and gems with the public. Take a look at the loveourpast website for more information and for insights into some of the many items in the collections.

And, there's still plenty more to see in Plymouth…

Visit the Mayflower Museum on the Barbican and Smeatons Tower on The Hoe, as well as a host of wonderful art galleries, including The Arts Institute and Plymouth Arts Centre to name a few.

Many of these are situated around the historic Barbican or in the city centre. You will find classic and contemporary artwork from both local and national artists to suit all tastes and budgets.