About

COLCHESTER'S OLDEST GALLERY

Colchester born Clarence Victor Batte-Lay was an avid collector of paintings and furniture. After the death of his wife in 1955, the Victor Batte Lay Trust was established with the instruction that ‘An ancient building of antiquarian or archaeological interest’ be bought in her late husband’s memory, to house and exhibit his collection ‘for the benefit and advantage of the inhabitants of Colchester’, hence the Minories was acquired.

74 High Street has long been an essential part of any visit to the town center, and in the warmer months it’s secluded garden is a particular delight. To discover its peace and calm for the first time is a memory that certainly seems to remain in many visitors’ hearts. Inside, in the galleries and reception rooms, elegant spaces can be found ideal for quiet, visual contemplation.

WHAT TO SEE

Our programme includes a range of exhibitions, artist residencies, events and workshops. More information is available on our website.

We also have a cafe called 'The Commons Cafe and Community Kitchen', which is run by a local community cooperative called 'Common Ground Colchester'. The cafe serves ethically sourced coffee, locally made cakes and affordable nourishing food, cooked by local people with local produce, supporting local growers & land-workers and contributing to the local food economy.

We also host intimate weddings and other events, please see our website for more details.

OPENING HOURS

Gallery and Cafe: Thursdays to Sundays 10am - 4pm All Year Round. Entry to the gallery is free. 

The cafe is also open Fridays 6pm - late. Entry is normally free, but they sometimes have special events which can be charged for.