Spotlight: The Biscuit Factory
Artist-led workshops in painting, pottery, embroidery, and creative writing at the UK's largest independent art gallery — just a short walk from Jesmond via the Ouseburn.
You may know The Biscuit Factory as Newcastle's premier independent art gallery — free to visit, with a rolling programme of exhibitions across two floors. But it is the creative workshops that make it especially relevant if you are looking to do something with your hands rather than just admire other people's work.
The Workshops
Artist-led sessions run regularly and cover painting, pottery, ceramics, textile design, embroidery, sculpture, and creative writing. Each workshop is taught by a practising professional who shares insight into their own process as well as the technical skills. No prior experience is needed for most sessions, and all materials are included.
The Setting
The Biscuit Factory occupies a converted Victorian warehouse on Stoddart Street in the Ouseburn Valley. For Jesmond residents, it is a 15-minute walk down through Jesmond Vale — the same route you would take to reach The Cluny or 36 Lime Street. The gallery is open daily from 10am to 5pm with free entry, so you can browse the exhibitions before or after your workshop.
Why Go
A workshop here makes an excellent gift, a solo creative afternoon, or a sociable outing with friends. The quality of instruction is high, the atmosphere is relaxed, and you leave with something you made yourself. Courses change seasonally, so it is worth checking their website for the latest schedule.