Heritage hotspot
Watts Gallery, Compton, Surrey
Watts Gallery was founded by visionary couple George Frederic and Mary Seton Watts. Artists and social pioneers, George and Mary shared an enduring conviction that art has the power to inspire and transform lives. George was one of the foremost artists of the 19th century and became known as ‘England’s Michelangelo’ for his powerful works and portraits. Mary, a visionary designer, artist, businesswoman and philanthropist, found ways for her art and creativity to support and inspire the people around her.
Today, Watts Gallery is a place to learn, explore and create. It’s a place to make memories, spend time with friends and family and enjoy a day out. The 18 acre site is home to an incredible collection of Arts and Crafts buildings, grounds and gardens, set in the beautiful Surrey Hills, just outside Guildford. Many parts of our site are free to visit and under 16s can visit the whole site for free. At Watts, they host a dynamic range of exhibitions and offer an inspiring year-round programme of talks, tours, workshops, and courses. They also curate and care for an extraordinary collection, totalling more than 7,000 artworks.
Watts Gallery is a registered independent charity. Most of our income comes from fundraising and donations. So each visit whether for a coffee, buying a gift or attending an event – directly helps their work.