The gallery has been collecting objects and works of art since 1883, and is one of the largest permanent collections in the northwest of England. The collection holds thousands of natural history specimens and archaeological artefacts as well as fine and decorative art including the Lees Collection of English Watercolours, featuring works by Constable, JR Cozens and Turner. The core collections include paintings of the Newlyn School, works by Northern artists, including Lowry and Theodore Major, and studio ceramics.