In the heart of Sudbury, Gainsborough’s House celebrates the life and legacy of one of Britain’s greatest artists, Thomas Gainsborough (1727–88). This award-winning museum combines his childhood home and historic garden with stunning contemporary galleries, a welcoming café, shop, and a working print workshop. Visitors can explore an inspiring blend of art, history, and creativity all just a short walk from the River Stour and Sudbury’s vibrant town centre.
There is a varied programme of exhibition and events coming up at Gainsborough’s House from winter through to spring, alongside a rich evergreen offer to complement your visit.
Stanley Spencer, Southwold, © Aberdeen City Council (Aberdeen Archives, Gallery & Museums)
Love & Landscape: Stanley Spencer in Suffolk
15 November 2025 – 22 March 2026
This major exhibition reveals how Suffolk shaped the life and art of Sir Stanley Spencer (1891–1959). While Spencer is famed for his visionary depictions of Cookham, Suffolk provided both inspiration and refuge throughout his career. The show brings together over 20 works from the Stanley Spencer Gallery, Tate, and other leading collections, including rarely seen paintings such as Southwold (1937) and The Red House, Wangford (1926). Accompanying items such as Hilda Carline’s wedding suit offer a glimpse into the artist’s personal world.
Humphrey Ocean RA, Brockley, Sunday 2023 © The Artist
Humphrey Ocean: Home
15 November 2025 – 22 March 2026
Spanning three decades of painting and drawing, Home reflects Humphrey Ocean RA’s fascination with the ordinary details that define modern life. From bungalows and road signs to the pattern of windows and cars, his subjects reveal the quiet poetry of the built environment.
The exhibition includes new work that continues Ocean’s exploration of form, rhythm, and design in everyday surroundings.
Hannah Brown, Day for Dusk (Coast Path) 2 © The Artist
Hannah Brown: Song for Autumn
15 November 2025 – 22 March 2026
East London-based artist Hannah Brown (b. 1977) captures the psychology of the English landscape, focusing on modest yet evocative corners of land often overlooked or under threat. Her tranquil, meticulously painted scenes invite reflection on change, memory, and belonging, a perfect counterpoint to the historic atmosphere of Gainsborough’s House.
James Rawlin
Events at Gainsborough’s House
From December through to March, Gainsborough’s House presents a vibrant season of events inviting visitors to connect more deeply with art, creativity, and ideas. Highlights include a fascinating talk by independent art advisor James Rawlin, who explores the life and legacy of twentieth century collector Wilfrid Evill; monthly life drawing sessions for those looking to hone their artistic skills; Humphrey Ocean will be ‘In Conversation with our Executive Director and we will be hosting a special curator’s talk with Dr Amy Lim, introducing the exhibition Love & Landscape: Stanley Spencer in Suffolk and offering exclusive after-hours access to the galleries.
Whether you’re keen to discover new perspectives on British art, develop your own creative practice, or simply enjoy an inspiring evening surrounded by world-class works, Gainsborough’s House offers a welcoming programme to brighten the winter months and spark new ideas in spring. After your visit, enjoy a seasonal lunch or coffee at The Watering Place café, browse the shop for our exhibition merchandise and lots of other treats, or explore nearby cultural gems including Sudbury Arts Centre, and Mill Tye Gallery.
Gainsborough’s House Spring © Gainsborough’s House, Jackie Mellor Photography
THE EVERGREEN EXPERIENCE
The Watering Place Café
Open daily, The Watering Place offers freshly prepared, locally sourced seasonal food, light lunches, cakes, pastries, and barista-made coffee. Whether you’re visiting the museum or just passing by, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a taste of Suffolk hospitality.
The Shop
The beautifully curated shop features art books, prints, stationery and gifts inspired by Gainsborough and contemporary artists with many items created by local makers. It’s the perfect place to find a thoughtful souvenir, a unique gift, or a piece of Suffolk’s artistic spirit to take home.
Print Workshop © Gainsborough’s House, Jackie Mellor Photography
The Print Workshop
A cornerstone of creativity since 1979, the Print Workshop provides a professional space where artists and beginners alike can experiment, learn and create. Courses, open-access sessions, and specialist workshops offer hands-on insight into traditional and contemporary printmaking techniques.
The House and Galleries
Following its award-winning redevelopment, Gainsborough’s House combines an authentic eighteenth-century townhouse with world-class galleries. The permanent collection and temporary exhibitions showcase outstanding works by Gainsborough and leading British artists, while the beautifully restored garden and new exhibition spaces make it one of the most inspiring heritage destinations in East Anglia.
Gainsborough’s House is open seven days a week. To find out more, see what’s on, book tickets and plan your visit go to www.gainsborough.org
