Firstsite

Firstsite is a museum and arts center in the city's core, built with a striking curved glass front and metal panels that make it stand out among older buildings around it. Inside, it houses multiple exhibition galleries, a cinema for screenings, a café, and a shop, creating a full cultural destination in one structure.

The organization started in 1993 as a community-focused arts initiative and expanded its influence over time. It moved to its current building in 2011, marking a significant growth in its ability to show art and host events.

The venue draws people interested in contemporary art from across the region and beyond. Visitors walk through rotating displays that connect them with artists working today, making it a gathering place for those who follow current creative movements.

The building sits in the city center and is easy to reach on foot with clear signage throughout. Most exhibitions are free to enter, though the cinema and café offer additional experiences for those who want to spend more time there.

The building was designed specifically as an energy-efficient arts facility with innovative sustainable features built into its structure. When it first opened in this historic city, its modern look surprised many locals, but it quickly became a symbol of how contemporary art spaces can fit into older towns.

Location: Colchester

Inception: 2011

Architects: Rafael Viñoly

Address: Lewis Gardens (off High Street), Colchester, CO1 1JH, England

Phone: 01206713700

Website: https://firstsite.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.88900,0.90600

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:03