The Watts Gallery

Tourist Destination of the Year

Recognized as the 2018 Tourist Destination of the Year by the Surrey Business Awards, The Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village is an ‘arts and crafts gem’ located in Compton, Surrey. The Gallery is dedicated to George Frederic Watts, one of the greatest Victorian era painters and considered England’s Michelangelo. It is one of the few UK galleries devoted to a single artist and features 100+ paintings and sculptures – many on a monumental scale.

G.F. Watts was married to Mary Watts an acclaimed artist, founder of the Compton Pottery and creator of Watts Chapel. The couple lived and worked an increasing amount of time away from London at Limnerslease (‘Limner' word for artist and 'lease' meaning to glean hope for the future), their home and studio located nearby.

It was here where Mary taught terracotta classes to the local villagers who created the tiles that decorate the Chapel. The Chapel itself was funded by sales of commissioned portraits painted by GF Watts.

Today, guests can visit the Gallery and Chapel and guided tours of Limnerslease. The gift shop located in the former Compton Pottery building features a tasteful collection of products ranging from books, clothing and jewellery to housewares, including replicas of Compton Pottery terracotta pots.

With so much to see and everything within walking distance, the tea shop is a perfect place to stop for homemade soups, sandwiches and salads and of course afternoon tea.

Another charming place to eat before or after a visit to The Watts Gallery is The Withies Inn — just a 4 minute drive away. Who knew such a small vilage could have so much to offer!
www.wattsgallery.org.uk ✆ +44 1483 810235
Down Lane, Compton, Surrey GU3 1DQ

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