Trip Ideas - Special Interest
Antiques
Hertfordshire is a treasure trove of antiques shops and centres for the commited collector or browser. Beckwith & Son established for One Hundred Years, is situated in the county town of Hertford and housed in a tudor jetted half timbered building together with the adjoining Victorian Hall.
By George Antiques Centre in St Albans is a 15th/16th century coaching inn & mill now housing 15 antiques dealers, 30 crafts people, tea room & Indian restaurant, Al fresco dining in courtyard. Other towns such as Baldock and Sawbridgeworth both offer ample choice for enthusiasts.
Also See: Antiques Tour
Art
Artshed is Hertfordshire’s newest contemporary art venue situated on the Rib Valley leisure complex at Westmill Farm, Ware. This is a unique combination of a large gallery space, shop, studios and workshops. The shop is a retail outlet for fine art supplies as well as stocking a wide variety of clays, tools and glazes for the ceramicist. The shop includes a bespoke framer who offers an exceptionally fast and efficient service. In addition to this, the shop exhibits many arts & crafts from artists giving them the opportunity to sell their work. You can have a well earned rest in scribbles cafe.
The Boxfield Gallery, housed in the foyer of the Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage has a wide range of exhibits on display, a large array of artist talent ranging from classic oil and canvas to contemporary pieces. It also supports the talent of local schools and features many exhibitions displaying young artists. The Courtyard Arts in Hertford, displays and sells contemporary art. The gallery houses a gift shop which stocks a range of ethically sourced home accessories (rugs, cushions, and bags), gifts, handmade cards and jewellery.
A programme of classes offers a wide range of subjects for all age groups and abilities, including those with special needs. Letchworth Arts Centre houses exhibitions and showcases of contemporary art and provides a wide range of art and education activities in its large gallery.
It holds regular music and social events in the café. Including the popular Jazz Café, with special guests held every other Sunday. The Henry Moore Foundation at Perry Green have restored Moore's home Hoglands to its former glory. Most of the original furnishings have been reinstalled as well as his numerous found objects, books and artworks which filled every room. Guided tours of the houes, studio and sculpture garden are available by appointment.
During weekdays, guided tours are. On Sundays visitors may walk unaccompanied in the gardens, studios and galleries
Also See: Art Tour
