Owner of popular Harrogate art gallery announces ‘heartbreaking’ closure as independent businesses face tough times
A popular art gallery in Harrogate is set to close its doors for good, with its founder describing the decision as ‘heartbreaking’ amid rising costs facing independent businesses across the country.
Lucy Pittaway Art Gallery has announced that its gallery on Prospect Place in Harrogate will close shortly, alongside its Bowness in Windermere location.
The decision comes amid increasing operational pressures, including a significant rent rise at the Harrogate site.
In a statement on social media, Lucy Pittaway said the choice had not been taken lightly: “It’s with a heavy heart that I share some difficult news from our Lucy Pittaway family.
"Shortly, we will be closing two galleries – Bowness in Windermere and Harrogate.
"This has been an incredibly tough decision, influenced by the rising operational costs facing so many UK businesses, including a significant rent increase at our Harrogate location.”
The gallery in Harrogate has been a familiar presence for art lovers in the town, showcasing Lucy’s distinctive landscape-inspired work and welcoming visitors from across the region.
Over the years, it has built a loyal local following and played a role in the town’s vibrant independent retail scene.
Lucy said her immediate focus is on supporting staff affected by the closure, with a consultation process now under way.
“Our priority right now is supporting the wonderful colleagues affected as we work through the consultation process.
"I am so grateful for their hard work and dedication, and for the support our customers have shown these galleries over the years – it truly means the world."
While the Harrogate and Bowness in Windermere galleries will be closing, the artist confirmed that the majority of the business remains unaffected.
The galleries in Richmond, Yarm, York, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Keswick will continue trading as normal, along with the Brompton-on-Swale Outlet.
The company’s website will also remain fully operational.
In the coming weeks, both closing galleries will be holding closing down sales, with 30 per cent off all stock, giving customers the opportunity to purchase artwork at reduced prices.
Lucy thanked customers for their continued support, adding: “Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your continued support.”
The closure comes at a challenging time for many independent retailers, as rising rents and running costs continue to impact high streets across the country.