Things to do in Oldham for Art Lovers

We’ve always been a creative community!

Numerous people from across Tameside, Oldham and Glossop have gone on to achieve great success in a variety of creative areas including the Arts, Music and Entertainment.

The Oldham borough in particular has been a hotbed of artistic talent over the years. Given that there is so much opportunity to capture both stunning landscapes and more intimate portraiture this should come as no surprise.

When we look a little closer we actually see that there are a whole host of things to do in Oldham for both artists and art lovers alike!

So if you’re from the Oldham area (or surrounding areas) and you’re looking for a little artistic inspiration, here are just a few suggestions of things to do in Oldham for artists and art lovers. Let’s take a look…

Gallery Oldham

Where else to start than a gallery?

Gallery Oldham, situated on Greaves Street in Oldham, is dedicated to displaying and delivering the history of the Oldham area and beyond, as well as numerous original pieces with influence taken from further afield.

Their fine art collection consists of over 550 oil paintings in a variety of styles, stretching all the way back to the eighteen hundreds. They depict various scenes, each more entrancing than the last, and present the nature and industry of the area with an abstract and unflinching eye.

There are also various items and models on display with influence from the natural and social history of Oldham.

They regularly organise talks and tours with some interesting and engaging subject matter, as well as events to keep the young ones happy and excited to learn about art and history.

There’s also the Naked Bean Café on-site if you fancy a hot cup of coffee while you’re making the rounds!

Saddleworth Museum and Gallery

Heading a few miles outside of Oldham town centre to Uppermill, Saddleworth Museum and Gallery has long been a popular stop of the ever-expanding tourist town.

Located right on High Street heading into Uppermill town centre (you really can’t miss it) the museum and gallery is dedicated to telling the story of the people of Saddleworth throughout the ages.

Bringing together the best of the classic museum experience and more modern innovations, the building is filled with highly detailed models, real-life artefacts and several interactive stations to help you further understand the history of Saddleworth and the villages and towns which call the area home.

Spread out across three floors, each exhibit focuses on a different time or area of interest, including a fascinating look at War time Saddleworth.

Plus, public events and gatherings are regularly held in the museum as well as fantastic opportunities for children to learn and get involved with Saddleworth’s history.

Reclamation Room (Style&Salvaged)

From Saddleworth Museum and Gallery, if you’re willing to walk a little further up the road – towards Lee street to be exact – you’ll run into another artistic treat in Uppermill…

Reclamation Room has become a hub of artistic activity in Saddleworth, greatly boosted by its artistic alter-ego: Style&Salvaged.

As a coffee shop, the Reclamation Room is a delightful mix of bold, strong coffees, delicious homemade cakes and a warming selection of sandwiches, salads and more!

But as an artistic hub, Style&Salvaged is home to a great selection of locally-produced artwork, design, crafts and trinkets, all available for sale.

Essentially it’s part art gallery, part crafts shop, part espresso bar… What’s not to love?!

Thanks to the inventive atmosphere, on top of the ability to grab a tasty snack and a hot drink, the space regularly sees creative groups (and other groups) gather to discuss their work, socialise and enjoy each other’s company.

If you’d like to tag along to a get-together held at the Reclamation Room you can find a list of their upcoming events here.

Is there anything we’ve missed? Are you an artist or art lover? What are some of your favourite things to do in Oldham for art lovers? Let us know in the comments section below!