and the Northumberland Open Exhibition
Woodhorn Museum is located in what was once the largest pit village in the world, the former colliery now welcomes thousands of people each year, telling the story of what daily life was really like for Northumberland’s mining communities.
The museum houses an impressive banner collection, chronicles the life of the Ashington coal mining community and showcases the iconic Ashington Group Collection of artworks. It hosts a programme of temporary exhibitions including the popular annual Northumberland Open Exhibition.
The museum is open Wednesday to Sundays, 10am – 4pm. Admission: £10 for adults, £9 concessions, and children under 18 are free. Tickets are an Annual Pass (unlimited visits for the next 12 months). Find out more: www.northeastmuseums.org.uk/woodhorn
2026 Northumberland Open Exhibition sets new record
This year’s Northumberland Open, has set a new record with 687 submissions, making 2026 its most competitive year to date. More than 280 amateur and professional artists from across Northumberland and the North East entered their creations for consideration.
The largest exhibition of its kind in the region, the Northumberland Open Exhibition celebrates the area’s creative talent, showcasing both amateur and professional artists across a wide variety of media. The exhibition runs to 14 May.
This year’s submissions have been carefully reviewed by a panel of experienced local artists and cultural professionals, including Wendy Scott, Cultural Development Manager at Northumberland County Council; Narbi Price, artist, painter, curator and lecturer; and Liz Ritson, Programme & Engagement Manager for North East Museums. Many of the artworks on display are available for sale, offering visitors a unique opportunity to acquire a new piece and support the region’s artists.
Visitors can also vote for their favourite piece in the People’s Choice Award. The winner is announced at the end of the exhibition in May.
northeastmuseums.org.uk/woodhorn/whats-on/the-northumberland-open-exhibition-2026
Friends of the Hatton 