What is it?
William Morris Gallery in Walthamshow’s Lloyd Park is Morris's former family home, the 18th-century Water House. The designer, socialist and source of all that flowery wallpaper lived here between 1848 and 1856. The house is set in its own extensive grounds and features permanent displays of printed and woven fabrics, rugs and painted tiles by Morris and other members of the Arts and Crafts movement. There’s also a spread of humble domestic objects including Morris's coffee cup and the satchel he used to distribute his radical pamphlets. Temporary exhibitions have included an exploration of how Morris was inspired by Islamic art, a journey through 100 years of mingei (Japanese folk art) and the upcoming ‘Morris Mania: How Britain’s greatest designer went viral’, which features Morris print Nike trainers, chopsticks and Dr Martens, plus a montage of media, from ‘ Django Unchained’ to ‘Peep Show’, in which his work has made a cameo.
Why go?
Even if you’ve never heard the name, you’ll know Morris’ ubiquitous designs. The William Morris Gallery is a beautiful gallery in a beautiful setting that will leave you with a fresh appreciation for the man’s craft, his political activism and his legacy.
Don’t miss
Aside from all the sumptuous fabrics, prints, furniture and wallpaper, you should keep an eye on the programme of late events, which includes workshops, poetry readings and even DJ sets.
When to visit
Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm.
Ticket info
Free entry.
Time Out tip
It’s 100 percent worth staying around the area when you’re done with the museum. On a sunny day, Lloyd Park is a glorious place for a stroll. And in the middle of the park you’ll find Winns Gallery/ Artists’ Studios, a council-run space championing local artists.