Turner Prize at MIMA: Make a Day of It with The Nuthatch

A gallery visit is often just the start of the conversation. There’s the work you loved, the piece you’re still puzzling over, and the inevitable question: which would you choose as the winner?

With the Turner Prize 2026 exhibition coming to MIMA — Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art — the town has plenty to talk about. At The Nuthatch, we think that conversation deserves a table, something delicious to share and a well-made cocktail.

From 26 September 2026 to 29 March 2027, MIMA hosts an exhibition of work by the four Turner Prize 2026 finalists: Simeon Barclay, Kira Freije, Marguerite Humeau and Tanoa Sasraku. Admission is free, making it an inviting starting point for a day out in Middlesbrough. Find out more and book your exhibition tickets.

Organised by Tate, the Turner Prize is one of the world’s leading contemporary art awards. For this exhibition, the shortlisted artists have worked with MIMA to reimagine and plan their work for its galleries in Centre Square. The winner will be announced on 10 December 2026. Read Teesside University’s announcement.

You don’t need to arrive with an expert opinion. Go with a little curiosity, take your time and see what stays with you.

From the galleries to Bedford Street

After exploring the exhibition, keep a little time aside for Middlesbrough itself. If you want a wider itinerary, our things to do in Middlesbrough guide is a useful companion.

You’ll find The Nuthatch at 9–11 Bedford Street, in the town’s independent quarter — a short walk from MIMA. We’ve been welcoming guests here since 2016, bringing together handcrafted cocktails, British charcuterie and cheese, and relaxed hospitality.

Our cocktail menu has more than 50 drinks to explore, so you can settle on an old favourite or ask us to help you discover something different. Prefer wine? Choose a glass and make yourself comfortable.

Our sharing boards give you another reason to linger. With charcuterie from Northallerton’s Mount Grace Charcuterie and British cheeses, they’re made for picking, sharing and enjoying at your own pace. Discover more about The Nuthatch and our British Charcuterie & Cheese.

Make an afternoon of it—and an evening

For a Thursday visit, follow the exhibition with Cosy Club from 5pm: a six-item British charcuterie and cheese board, plus a bottle of Merlot or Pinot Grigio, for £37.

On Thursdays and Fridays, 8 O’Clocktails means selected cocktails are £8 before 8pm. It’s an easy way to round off your gallery visit or begin an evening in town.

On Saturdays, we open at 3pm, making an afternoon exhibition visit and a table at The Nuthatch a lovely pairing.

Staying out a little later? Our Twilight Cheese & Wine offer includes two large glasses of wine and a three-item cheese board for £27, available Friday and Saturday, 8.30–9.30pm. Explore our current offers.

Plan your visit

Book your free Turner Prize exhibition tickets through MIMA’s booking page, checking the available dates and visiting times before you travel.

Then book a table with us for the next part of your day. Our usual opening hours are Thursday and Friday from 5pm, and Saturday from 3pm, until late. Check our website for seasonal opening arrangements. The Nuthatch is an over-18s venue.

Whether you’re travelling to Middlesbrough for the exhibition or rediscovering what’s on your doorstep, we’d love to welcome you.

Come for the art. Stay for the conversation.

Book your table at The Nuthatch