Located in the beautifully converted old railway station buildings, the Platform Gallery is a premier destination for contemporary craft in the North West.
It uniquely combines an ever-changing program of exhibitions with a high-quality craft shop and the official Visitor Information Centre for the Ribble Valley.
Whether you are looking for a unique handmade gift, seeking travel advice for the local area, or wanting to immerse yourself in British craft, the gallery is an essential stop in Clitheroe.
Quick Facts
- Star Rating: ★★★★☆ (Highly praised for its bright, spacious atmosphere and diverse collection)
- Best For: Art lovers, gift shoppers, and travelers seeking local guidance.
- Facilities: On-site craft shop, tourist information hub, room hire (The Mix), and full disabled access.
Opening Times (2026)
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Some sources suggest until 5:00 PM; checking locally is advised)
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Some sources suggest until 4:30 PM)
- Sundays: Seasonal only (Typically 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM during peak periods; check social media for updates)
- Bank Holidays: Closed.
Admission & Prices
- Entry: Free Admission. Visitors are welcome to browse the exhibitions and craft shop without a fee.
- Craft Shop: Items are available for a wide range of budgets, from affordable cards and small ceramics to high-end bespoke art.
- Exhibitions: The main gallery hosts four major exhibitions a year, which are free to view.
- Parking: Long-stay parking is available nearby at the Chester Avenue car park, located just behind the rail interchange.
Top Items of Interest
- The Craft Shop: A well-established retail space hosting around 30 artists at a time, featuring jewelry, textiles, ceramics, glass, and woodwork.
- Exhibition Programme (2026):
- Into the Dark (ends 11th April): A celebration of monochrome and whimsical crafts.
- Craft Open 2026 (27th April – 20th June): An annual showcase of local contemporary makers.
- Heritage Craft (6th July – 11th September).
- Northern Star (starts 28th September): The annual winter showcase of handmade British gifts.
- Visitor Information Centre: The go-to spot for local maps, event guides, walking routes, and souvenirs.
- Artwalk Clitheroe: The gallery is a key hub for this town-wide event (scheduled for 8th March and 18th October 2026).
Important Information
- Location: Directly adjacent to Clitheroe Railway Station and the main bus interchange, making it exceptionally easy to reach via public transport.
- Own Art Scheme: The gallery offers an interest-free loan scheme to help make purchasing original art more affordable.
- Workshops: Regular creative sessions are held in “The Mix” room, such as painting and drawing workshops for all skill levels.
Contact & Location
- Address: Station Road, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 2JT
- Telephone: 01200 425566
- Email: platform.gallery@ribblevalley.gov.uk
- Website: ribblevalley.gov.uk/platformgallery
