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The Southgate Club's impressive facade hides a fascinating history - and a new  art gallery

Hidden behind the impressive facade of the Southgate Club in Chase Side is not only a fascinating history (it began life as the Southgate Reading Rooms -  you can read its full history here), but also a new art gallery, and this Friday (30th July) the gallery is having an open day - from 10am till late.

The new gallery was conceived as an impressive hanging space for local artists. Its new lighting and fittings have been funded by local celebrity and benefactor Ralph Hutchings and perfectly match the style in which the Southgate Club has recently been refurbished.

As well as hosting "art on the walls" and a selection of art and design books, the gallery will form part of a community cafe in a comfortable, atmospheric setting. Local artists will be able to submit examples of work, personally or digitally to .

Unfortunately, owing to continuing procrastination on the part of Thames Water and Enfield Council over drain repairs, the official opening date of the cafe and gallery is not yet known, but the Southgate Club welcomes visitors who wish to see the exhibition during their regular opening hours from 5.00pm Monday – Thursday, 3.00pm Friday and from noon at weekends.

The current exhibition features the work of local artists Anne Hutchings and Nicola Scott, primarily printmaking, drawing and painting. They, along with the "Hanging Committee", will be at the Southgate Club Art Gallery from 10.00am this Friday, 30th August to welcome anyone to the gallery to see their work and take in the atmosphere. Tea and coffee will be available with drinks from 3.00pm into the evening.

The entrance is at the front of the club, 17 Chase Side, N14 5BP. Just 100 metres from Southgate Underground Station.