Happy Days, Expensive Nights: Royal Pump Rooms

[dropcap]S[/dropcap]ince the first month of the year has drawn to a close, and the majority of us have broken our New Year Resolutions, we might as well try to give our wallets and livers a small break this February by experiencing what Leamington Spa has to offer apart from a (good?) night out.

Those of you who currently live in Leam probably know the Royal Pump Rooms by name or at least recognise the glass building opposite Jephson Gardens. However, few of us have ever set foot inside. If you do venture inside this lovely little building you will find a small art gallery within.

The gallery is open Tuesday through to Saturday from 10.30am to 5pm and admission is free so there is no reason not to take in some of the culture that the town has to offer. It has included many collections from 17th to 21st century works of art; some from major British artists, such as Terry Atkinson or Sir Terry Frost. However, the Pump Rooms don’t only include paintings, but also sculpture, ceramics and new media.

The current exhibition on show is by Tessa Beaver, a Leamington local, who is both a painter and printmaker. Tessa uses a variety of techniques in her work, from steel plate etchings to pottery. Also on show are her ink and charcoal sketches and traditional oil paintings. Another reason to check out her stunning etches is that many have never been seen before.

Nevertheless, if art isn’t your thing then why not pop into the local history museum in the room next door? Find out how Leamington went from a rural village to a thriving town and the role the local community had to play, or, if you just you fancy a snack, there is also a relaxing café as you walk in.

If you’re a fresher who fancies seeing what Leamington looks like in the day or a finalist who wants to tick something off their student bucket list, then I’d recommend giving the Leamington Pump Rooms a visit.

If you have a suggestion for a great student day out that costs less than a night out, and would like to see your name in the Boar, email travel@theboar.org with your idea.