Across the River Mersey from Liverpool is the Williamson Art Gallery and Museum. It is not a large museum but its single-story Neo-Georgian building was purpose-built as an art museum.

The Williamson is a short train ride from downtown Liverpool. The closest station is Birkenhead Central. However, it is a significant walk through the business district of this suburban community to get to the gallery from the train station.

Founded in 1928, most of the funding for this museum came from John Williamson and his son Patrick Williamson. The elder Williamson was a director of the Cunard Steamship Company. The connection between the museum and the sea is maintained in a large collection of ship models featuring ships with a Liverpool connection.

The permanent collection also includes Victorian painting, furniture and statuary. The Williamson has a large collection of Della Robbia Pottery, Birkenhead's own contribution to the Arts & Crafts Movement.

In addition to the permanent collection, the Williamson hosts visiting exhibitions often featuring the work of local and regional artists. The museum's spacious galleries are well-suited to hosting large contemporary works.

The Williamson has its own cafe.

Admission to the museum is free. As of this writing, it is open Wednesdays through Saturdays.         

Places to see art ​ - Liverpool, England - Williamson Art Gallery and Museum