Cartwright Hall
A civic art gallery in a grand building, showcasing British art and hosting major exhibitions like the Turner Prize.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Cartwright Hall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A civic art gallery in a grand building, showcasing British art and hosting major exhibitions like the Turner Prize.
"A fabulous gem of culture with an eclectic collection and a beautiful building, all for free!"
🎯 Book Turner Prize Tickets
Free timed tickets are essential for the Turner Prize. Book online in advance to guarantee entry!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free on-road parking is available near the gallery entrance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
David Hockney Gallery
Upstairs galleries
Discover the early life and career of Bradford's most famous artist, David Hockney.
Turner Prize 2025
Main exhibition space
Experience the UK's most prestigious contemporary art award, completely free to visit.
Mughal Gardens
Outside Cartwright Hall
Stunning formal gardens offering a peaceful escape and picturesque photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibitions
Explore Lister Park Too
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Turner Prize Tickets
Free timed tickets are essential for the Turner Prize. Book online in advance to guarantee entry! 
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free on-road parking is available near the gallery entrance.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy coffee and cakes at the onsite cafe, though it closes mid-afternoon.
♿ Accessible Facilities
Lifts and accessible toilets are available, making it easy to explore.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Turner Prize Tickets
Free timed tickets are essential for the Turner Prize. Book online in advance to guarantee entry!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free on-road parking is available near the gallery entrance.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy coffee and cakes at the onsite cafe, though it closes mid-afternoon.
♿ Accessible Facilities
Lifts and accessible toilets are available, making it easy to explore.
📸 Capture the Gardens
The Mughal Gardens are perfect for photos, especially in good weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cartwright Hall for its free entry, diverse art collections, and the beautiful setting within Lister Park. The David Hockney exhibition and the upcoming Turner Prize are major highlights, drawing significant acclaim. While the cafe occasionally has limited hours, the overall experience is highly positive, with many appreciating the helpful staff and accessible facilities.
"Fantastic David Hockney Exhibition. Free entry too. Easy to park for no charge near by, nice cafe for a quick coffee. The Hockney exhibition was extremely informative about his early life and career history. Lovely park to explore too."
Chris B.
"We really enjoyed our visit to Cartwright Hall to see the displays, but especially to see Fighting to be Heard and I Am Me. Those two exhibitions were very beautiful and well-curated - everyone involved should be very proud of their efforts.
The entrance exhibition space is beautiful, including the impressive sculptures. I was also really happy to see a Dame Laura Knight painting, which I didn't realise was on display here before I visited, as I'd just finished reading about her and her work.
I enjoyed some of the Hockney art, and I loved the gallery spaces upstairs featuring artworks by Arpana Caur, Emilie Taylor, Sutapa Biswas, Bertram Priestman, L.S. Lowry, William Shackleton, and Yinka Shonibare (I mention these in particular as they were my favourite works).
Unfortunately the refreshment room was closed, however this was clearly advertised on the Bradford Museums and Galleries social media so we knew this before we visited.
The staff were lovely and the gift shop was well stocked."
Alex Wild
"What a fabulous gem of Culture we found today !! Some contemporary art , some archive pieces, and a fabulous exhibition of David Hockney and his life, born in Bradford and still a working Artist 80 years later ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
No tickets required !!!
Free entry !!
Which is why we bought lots of items at the shop, had coffee and cakes , and put some cash into the donation box."
Jan Crabtree
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cartwright Hall is located in Lister Park, Bradford. You can reach it by car, with free on-road parking available nearby. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop close to the park.
Yes, there is free on-road parking available on the roads surrounding Lister Park and Cartwright Hall.
Several local bus services operate to Lister Park. Check local bus timetables for routes and times serving the Manningham area.
Cartwright Hall is a prominent building within Lister Park, making it relatively easy to locate once you are in the park.
For the Turner Prize, consider public transport or carpooling due to expected high visitor numbers. Booking parking in advance might be advisable if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Cartwright Hall is free. However, special exhibitions like the Turner Prize require free, timed tickets booked in advance.
Yes, free timed tickets are required for the Turner Prize exhibition. Book these online through the Bradford 2025 website.
Cartwright Hall typically closes around 4 PM, with the cafe closing earlier at 3:30 PM. It's always best to check the official website for the most current hours, especially during exhibition periods.
While general entry is free, group bookings for special exhibitions might have specific arrangements. It's advisable to contact the gallery directly for group visit information.
For popular exhibitions like the Turner Prize, it's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance as they can sell out.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cartwright Hall features a diverse collection, including 19th & 20th-century British art, the David Hockney Gallery, and rotating temporary exhibitions like the Turner Prize.
Yes, Cartwright Hall often has family-friendly exhibitions and activities. The surrounding Lister Park also offers play areas.
Cartwright Hall is accessible with lifts to upper floors and accessible toilets.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but check for specific restrictions on certain artworks or exhibitions.
The Hockney Gallery showcases the early life and career of Bradford-born artist David Hockney, offering insights into his formative years.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within Cartwright Hall that serves hot food and refreshments.
The cafe typically serves hot food until 2 PM and closes at 3:30 PM. It's advisable to confirm current hours.
While there's a cafe, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated picnic areas within Lister Park, rather than inside the gallery.
The immediate area around Lister Park has various cafes and restaurants, offering diverse dining choices if the gallery cafe is closed or you prefer other options.
Cafes usually offer a range of options. It's recommended to check the menu at the cafe upon arrival for specific dietary choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside Cartwright Hall, but always check for specific signage regarding restrictions on certain exhibits.
The Mughal Gardens outside the hall offer beautiful scenery, and the grand architecture of Cartwright Hall itself is very photogenic.
Photography rules can vary for major exhibitions. It's best to check the specific guidelines provided by Bradford 2025 or Tate for the Turner Prize.
Drone photography is typically not permitted within the park or around the gallery buildings. Always adhere to local regulations.
Visitors often capture the architecture, the Mughal Gardens, and artworks from current exhibitions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The onsite cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks and light meals, making it easier to manage a day out with children. Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to avoid peak crowds. The accessible facilities also make it easier for families with strollers or young children to navigate the building comfortably.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Culture Vultures
+1Keep an eye on the Bradford 2025 and Bradford Museums and Galleries social media for announcements on new exhibitions and events. Booking free tickets in advance for major shows like the Turner Prize is essential.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
+1Save money by utilizing the free parking available nearby and enjoying a picnic lunch in Lister Park. The onsite cafe offers reasonably priced refreshments if you prefer not to bring your own.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The David Hockney Connection
Many visitors rave about the Hockney displays, finding them incredibly informative and a poignant reminder of his local roots. It's a chance to connect with the artist before his international fame, offering a unique perspective on his journey.
The presence of Hockney's work solidifies Cartwright Hall's reputation as a key cultural destination in Bradford, attracting visitors specifically to see his early pieces.
Turner Prize 2025: A Major Art Event
+1Admission to the Turner Prize exhibition is free, but visitors must book timed tickets in advance through the Bradford 2025 website. This is crucial to manage visitor flow and ensure everyone gets a chance to experience the exhibition. The event is expected to draw significant crowds, highlighting Bradford's growing importance in the national arts scene.
+2The arrival of the Turner Prize underscores Cartwright Hall's role as a vital cultural hub, capable of hosting major international art events and contributing to Bradford's vibrant cultural landscape.
Exploring Lister Park and Mughal Gardens
Adjacent to the hall are the Mughal Gardens, a meticulously designed formal garden that provides a tranquil and visually stunning environment. These gardens are a popular spot for photography, offering a serene backdrop with their intricate layouts and seasonal blooms.
+1Visitors often combine their visit to Cartwright Hall with an exploration of Lister Park, appreciating the synergy between the art gallery and its natural surroundings. The park's beauty enhances the overall experience, making it a well-rounded cultural and recreational outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit