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Royal West of England Academy

Royal West of England Academy
About

The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) in Clifton is Bristol’s oldest public art gallery and one of the UK’s longest‑established regional art institutions. Founded in 1844 through the vision of artist Ellen Sharples, who secured support from figures such as Prince Albert and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it became the city’s first dedicated space for fine art. Housed in a striking Grade II* listed Italianate building on Queen’s Road, the RWA is home to five galleries that showcase a dynamic programme of historic and contemporary exhibitions. Its grand entrance hall, topped with a dome and decorated with lunettes by Walter Crane, reflects the Academy’s 19th‑century expansion and ambition. The RWA has long championed equality in the arts, being among the first institutions in Britain to offer women the same training opportunities as men. Today, following a major refurbishment, it combines heritage with accessibility, offering step‑free access, community engagement, and exhibitions that bring world‑class art to Bristol. As both a historic landmark and a living cultural hub, the RWA continues to inspire creativity and dialogue across generations.

Bristol United Kingdom
Location

The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is located on Queens Road in Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1PX, near the junction with Whiteladies Road. The gallery is set opposite the Victoria Rooms and is situated in Bristol's academic heart, close to the University of Bristol. Nearby landmarks include the Victoria Methodist Church and Habitat store. The RWA is within easy reach of major motorway links, Bristol city centre, and public transport options such as buses and Clifton Down railway station about a 10-minute walk away. The location offers visitors access to other cultural sites, shops, cafes, and green spaces in the Clifton area.

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