Business Details
Contemporary Art Gallery in Ashbourne, Derbyshire
The Courtney Gallery, formerly St John Street Gallery, is a prominent contemporary art space nestled in the historic Georgian town of Ashbourne, Derbyshire. Housed in a Grade II listed building that once served as the town's Magistrates Court, we offer a dynamic platform for over forty regional artists across four floors of gallery space. Our curated exhibitions feature original paintings, prints, sculptures, and ceramics, alongside works by acclaimed artists from further afield. We actively foster local talent through initiatives like the Ashbourne Festival art prizes and collaborations with the Peak District Artisans.Beyond visual art, we host cultural events including workshops, art talks, and a book club, creating a vibrant hub for creative exchange. The gallery's award-winning, dog-friendly caf complements the experience, serving locally sourced food and drinks in a setting surrounded by art. With accessibility provisions on the ground floor and a commitment to preserving the area's heritage, we aim to make art and culture accessible to all.
Services
Art Exhibitions
Cultural Events
Art Sales
Private Viewings
Gallery Caf
Artist Support
Online Exhibitions
Workshops
Art Talks
Local Art Promotion
Highlights and features
- We offer a unique blend of contemporary art and historic architecture in Ashbourne.
- Our gallery supports local artists through the Peak District Artisans collaboration.
- We host diverse cultural events, including workshops and art talks.
- The award-winning caf provides locally sourced food in an art-filled setting.
- Accessibility features ensure inclusive access to ground-floor gallery spaces.
What people say
Unique experience
Great food
Friendly ambiance
Beautiful art
Historic setting
Services
Art Exhibitions
We curate contemporary art exhibitions featuring original paintings, prints, sculptures, and ceramics. Our four-floor gallery showcases works by over forty regional artists and acclaimed international creators. Exhibitions rotate regularly to provide fresh perspectives and foster cultural engagement in a historic Grade II listed building.
Cultural Events
Our cultural events include workshops, art talks, live demonstrations, and a book club. These activities create opportunities for community interaction and artistic development. We also host fringe events for the Ashbourne Festival, supporting local talent and promoting creative exchange in Derbyshire's historic heart.
Gallery Caf
The award-winning, dog-friendly caf serves locally sourced food, Italian coffee, and homemade cakes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available. The space includes a mezzanine for meetings or gatherings, combining culinary excellence with an immersive art environment in a historic setting.
Private Viewings
We offer private viewings for individuals or groups interested in exploring the gallery outside regular hours. This service accommodates special requests for Sunday or Monday appointments, ensuring accessibility for all visitors while maintaining the gallery's welcoming atmosphere and commitment to art appreciation.
Artist Support
Through collaborations with the Peak District Artisans and sponsorship of the Ashbourne Festival art prizes, we nurture emerging talent. Our platform provides regional artists with exposure alongside established names, fostering a supportive ecosystem for artistic growth and community engagement in Derbyshire's cultural landscape.
People
Mark Courtney
Gallery Owner
Co-owner with a passion for art and community development. Transformed a historic building into a vibrant gallery and caf space, championing local artists and cultural initiatives in Ashbourne.
Petra Courtney
Gallery Owner
Co-owner dedicated to preserving heritage while promoting contemporary art. Collaborates with local artists and cultural organisations to create an inclusive space for art appreciation in Derbyshire.
Jessica Harrison
Caf Supervisor
Manages the award-winning caf, ensuring high-quality food and service standards. Focuses on locally sourced ingredients and creating a welcoming environment that complements the gallery's artistic atmosphere.
Questions
What are the gallery's opening hours?
We are open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The gallery is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and bank holidays.
Can I book a private viewing?
Yes, private viewings are available on Sundays and Mondays by appointment. Contact us during regular opening hours to arrange your visit.
Does the gallery support local artists?
We actively support local talent through collaborations with the Peak District Artisans and by hosting the Ashbourne Festival art prizes, providing exposure and development opportunities.
Is the café accessible for all visitors?
The main gallery and café areas are accessible on the ground floor. Unfortunately, the upstairs café requires stair access, but we provide assistance where possible.
Can I purchase art through financing options?
Yes, we participate in the Own Art scheme, allowing interest-free payments over ten months for selected artworks, making art ownership more accessible.
Are there group booking options for the café?
Yes, we accept bookings for small to medium groups in our café. The mezzanine floor is ideal for meetings or special occasions—please book in advance.
