Allen Gallery

Situated in the historic market town of Alton, the Allen Gallery is an intimate setting for one of the south’s most outstanding collections of ceramics. The gallery hosts an impressive and varied selection of pottery, porcelain and tiles dating from 1250 to the present day. The front section of the gallery was originally a stable and coachman’s house. William Hugh Curtis, the final owner of the building, left the premises in his will to be used as a public museum. The gallery opened its doors in 1963 and in 1979 was extended with funds from the WH Allen Bequest and Hampshire County Council. On the ground floor of the gallery are the main exhibition areas, shop, café and toilets, and on the first floor you will find our children's activity area as well as more displays showcasing our excellent ceramics collection. When you have finished your trip to the gallery, why not pay a visit to our sister venue in Alton, the Curtis Museum, home to one of the finest local history collections in Hampshire. Alongside its inspiring permanent displays, the Allen Gallery hosts a wide variety of temporary exhibitions all year round, as well as a regular programme of fun events and activities for all the family to enjoy, drop-in sessions, talks and bookable workshops.

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