Level Centre Rowsley

Overview

The Level Centre is a contemporary arts and performance space located in the village of Rowsley, situated between the towns of Matlock and Bakewell in the Derbyshire Dales. The centre supports artists and audiences with learning disabilities and neurodivergence and is known for its inclusive approach.

The visual art exhibitions and digital installations here are free to visit, and it’s a friendly, relaxed place welcoming all to experience art. A lot of the work displayed here is produced by or with disabled creatives.

Children will love the range of activities available and the sensory exhibits, while adults will enjoy discovering new artworks. It’s an inspiring place to spend a few hours and a great activity for a rainy day in the Peak District, or if you fancy adding something cultural to an outdoor holiday.

How much is it to visit the Level Centre?

Entrance to the Level Centre and most of its exhibitions and events is free of charge. Donations are welcome. For certain events and activities, an entrance fee may apply.

What is there to see at Level Centre?

There is a year-round programme of events, performances, workshops, interactive installations, and exhibitions that take place at Level Centre. There are also open days and creative workshops that happen regularly.

The clean interior spaces are filled with natural light, making for an inspiring environment in which to view the exhibits and artworks. The displays are easy to navigate and designed to be sensory-friendly.

Level Centre is a unique and unusual thing for both adults and children to do in Derbyshire, as all of its exhibitions and events are suitable for all ages. There’s always something different to see, so it’s somewhere you can visit many times without getting bored.

Can I get something to eat at Level Centre?

There’s no café at Level Centre, but there is a small rural shopping centre nearby called Peak Village that you can visit to get a bite to eat. There are two restaurants here – Chatsworth Kitchen and Caffe Masserella – plus sweets and cakes available to buy in some of the shops. Sometimes, there is also a coffee kiosk where you can buy hot and cold drinks.

Parking at Peak Village is free and, if you like shopping, it’s worth a wander round. There is also a pub called the Grouse and Claret located next to the shopping outlet, which serves a range of light bites, main meals, snacks, and drinks.

In the nearby towns of Bakewell and Matlock, you’ll find a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering everything from hearty pub grub to small plates and fine dining. There is something for everyone.

Is Level Centre accessible?

Level Centre has been designed to be accessible for as many people as possible. Accessibility facilities include:

Level access throughout
Accessible parking spaces
Automatic main doors
Hearing loop
Quiet space
Braille signage
Ear defenders available to borrow
Mobile hoist
Handrail in the main corridor
Accessible toilets
Part of the Sunflower Lanyard scheme
Free entrance for carers during paid events
Assistance dogs welcome

History of Level Centre

Level Centre was founded in 1988 by Peter Shelton, although it was originally called First Movement.

It was established to make art, creativity, and cultural experiences available to everyone and is a registered charity. In 2008, the building in Rowsley was opened and the organisation relaunched as Level Centre.

Peter has been named in the Independent on Sunday’s Happy List for the impact he has had on the happiness of the community.

Biodiverse Sensory Garden

Outside the Level Centre, you’ll find the Biodiverse Sensory Garden, an outdoor space for everyone to enjoy. The garden is surrounded by views of the surrounding Derbyshire countryside and is a peaceful place to spend some time. Features of the garden include:

Planting beds at different heights
Plants – including sensory plants
Fruit, vegetables, and herbs
Bird boxes
Bug hotel
Sculptures
Murals
Mirrors
Benches

There are different workshops and events for children to attend in the Biodiverse Sensory Garden, some of which are free to attend, including:

Nature Tots (ages 0-5)
Nature Time (ages 0-2)
Junior Rangers (ages 10-16)

How to get to the Level Centre from YHA Hartington Hall

Level Centre is about 11.2 miles (18 kilometres) from YHA Hartington Hall. The best way to get there is by car, as the route is not served by public transport. Driving should take around 22 minutes.

Parking: There is a free public car park at the end of Old Station Close, where Level Centre is located. Disabled parking spaces are available in front of the Level Centre building.