Martello Alley

Martello Alley Art Gallery - Unique art, decor and craft locally made Well that alley-way adventure literally just got a lot more intriguing, and colourful!
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Martello Alley - An Artful Adventure

The labyrinth of alley-ways in downtown Kingston are like little adventures we can explore everyday - full of surprises, intrigue and history. A turn here, a stone wall there, secret little balconies with a view of a court yard or a sculpture quietly, humbly hanging above your head - these are all gems that are unique to Kingston! We are excited to introduce y

ou to "Martello Alley"! When you venture down Martello Alley at 203 B Wellington Street, prepare to have a smile that only great art and creativity can create! Reminiscent of, and inspired by La Rue du Trésor in Québec this is an adventure with an wonderfully artistic ending! We are an artist collective offering eclectic works that are sure to brighten any day. Selling original art work as well as prints, this is a space designed for any budget and any style/size of space. Our work will adorn the walls of the alley tempting you further in to stroll the court yard; a work in progress that promises to be beautifully rich with local history and seasonal landscape design. Then wind up at the atelier where you will find a gallery and artists with their works in progress to welcome you at the end. Drop by and see what's new, meet an artist and have a cup of coffee with us. We would love to meet you! Visit us at https://www.facebook.com/MartelloAlley to read up about our artists and what's happening at Martello Alley! Thank you for shopping local and supporting Kingston arts! The Artists of Martello Alley

06/17/2026

Today, Anna Storms, one of our newest artists, spent the day at Martello Alley helping staff the gallery while also working on her latest creation—a charming painting of her cat. It’s always wonderful to see artists creating right in the gallery, giving visitors a chance to meet the people behind the artwork and watch creativity in action.

What a beautiful day it was! Many people took advantage of the sunshine and stopped in to explore the gallery, discover new artwork, and chat with our artists.

If you haven’t visited Martello Alley yet, we invite you to stop by and experience one of Kingston’s most unique destinations. Home to over 40 local artists and makers, Martello Alley features an ever-changing collection of original art, handcrafted gifts, home décor, jewellery, woodwork, pottery, and Kingston-inspired souvenirs. Everything we sell is created by local artists, making every visit a chance to discover something truly one of a kind. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, a memorable souvenir, or simply a fun place to explore, there’s always something new waiting for you at Martello Alley! 🎨✨

06/12/2026

It always makes me smile when some of my winter paintings find new homes during the heat of summer. That was the case today!

I’m delighted that two of my paintings, Stringing the Lights and La joie des trois, have been purchased and are heading back to the United States with their new owners.

Perhaps they’ll hang on the wall and provide a little psychological relief on a hot summer day—saving a bit on air conditioning! Or perhaps it’s simply the warmth, nostalgia, and charm of a winter scene that appeals to them.

These collectors are longtime visitors to the region, returning year after year to enjoy their cottage along the beautiful Rideau Canal system. I’m honoured that they’ve chosen to take a little piece of a Canadian winter home with them. ❄️🎨🇨🇦

06/11/2026

At Martello Alley, we have always believed that souvenirs should actually mean something. That’s why we focus on locally made art, gifts, décor, and souvenirs created right here in our region. We don’t fill our shelves with imported trinkets from overseas—we work hard to find authentic items that reflect Kingston’s history, culture, and character.

Finding locally made souvenirs can be surprisingly difficult, especially items that connect visitors to Kingston’s rich heritage. That’s why we were thrilled when a local artisan recently approached us about carrying his beautiful hand-carved wooden creations.

The very first piece we have received is this one-of-a-kind Fort Henry Guard Wood Soldier Carving.

Measuring approximately 6” x 2” x 2”, this handcrafted figure is carved from basswood and sealed with boiled linseed oil to increase longevity and prepare the surface for painting. Each carving is individually made, making every piece unique. The detailed workmanship captures the distinctive appearance of the Fort Henry Guard, serving as both a beautiful work of folk art and a tribute to an important part of Canadian history.

06/06/2026

Martello Alley and Martello On Brock are now authorized ticket sellers for two of Kingston’s most popular attractions: Fort Henry and Kingston Penitentiary Tours!

We are thrilled to announce that this is our first year as an affiliate partner with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, the organization that operates these incredible historic attractions.
The best part? When you purchase your tickets through us, it doesn’t cost you a penny more, but it helps support our small local galleries and the artists and makers we represent.

🎨 Martello Alley is Ontario’s only art alley and proudly showcases locally made art, gifts, and souvenirs created by talented local artists and artisans.

As a special thank-you, if you purchase your tickets through our affiliate links or directly in our stores, simply let us know and we’ll give you a beautiful postcard featuring Fort Henry overlooking the Royal Military College and Kingston—our gift to you!

✔️ Tickets are delivered virtually by email.
✔️ Purchase them before your trip.
✔️ Simply choose your attraction, date, time, and number of tickets.
✔️ Skip the lines and arrive ready to explore!
If you’re planning a visit to Kingston, we highly recommend booking your tickets in advance.

And while you’re here, be sure to visit Martello Alley and our sister gallery Martello On Brock. We’d love to welcome you and help make your Kingston visit even more memorable.

Please feel free to share this post with your friends and family who may be planning a trip to Kingston!

MartelloOnBrock SupportLocalArtists OntarioTravel VisitKingston HistoricKingston

06/03/2026

🚲 Bicycles are kind of a thing at Martello Alley! 🚲

If you’ve visited us before, you’ve probably noticed the two bright, colourful bicycles that greet visitors at the entrance to the alley. Cheerful, eye-catching, and full of personality, they’ve become something of a symbol of our little store.

Bicycles are also a wonderful way to get from Point A to Point B while being environmentally friendly, staying active, and enjoying the beautiful summer weather.

To celebrate Bicycle Week, we’re giving away a FREE Martello Alley jute tote bag (a $10 value) with every purchase!

Getting your free tote is easy. Just say:
🚲 “Bicycle Week!”
🚲 “I love bicycles!”
🚲 Or simply, “I’d like my free tote bag!”

It’s that easy.

Happy Bicycle Week! Enjoy the sunshine, get out for a ride, and if your travels bring you downtown Kingston, be sure to cycle over and visit us at Martello Alley—Ontario’s only art alley and one of Kingston’s most colourful destinations!

See you in the alley! 🚲🎨

06/03/2026

A little while ago, I was both surprised and delighted to discover the wonderful YouTube feature, “Hidden Gem – Martello Alley,” by Canuck Girl Travels. The video beautifully captured the spirit of Martello Alley and showed why so many people consider it one of Kingston’s most unique destinations.

Now, Canuck Girl Travels has done it again with a stunning collection of photographs shared on Facebook. These images perfectly capture the colour, creativity, charm, and atmosphere that make Martello Alley such a special place. Seeing our gallery, alleyway, courtyard, and artists’ work through the eyes of a visitor is always a pleasure.

For those who have never visited, Martello Alley is much more than an art gallery. Tucked away in a historic downtown Kingston alleyway, it is a vibrant artist collective featuring the work of dozens of local artists and artisans. Every corner is filled with original paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, glasswork, textiles, woodwork, and unique handcrafted gifts. It is a place where art spills out into the alleyway and courtyard, where visitors can meet artists, hear the stories behind the work, and experience Kingston’s creative spirit firsthand.

A heartfelt thank you to Canuck Girl Travels for not only creating such a beautiful video but also for sharing these wonderful photographs. Small businesses and artist collectives like ours face many challenges these days, and every kind word, photo, review, video, share, and recommendation helps more than people realize. The support means the world to us and to the artists whose work fills our gallery.

Thank you for shining a spotlight on one of Kingston’s most colourful hidden gems and for helping others discover the magic of Martello Alley.

06/02/2026

I was both surprised and delighted to discover this wonderful YouTube feature, “Hidden Gem – Martello Alley,” by Canuck Girl Travels.

A heartfelt thank you for visiting and for taking the time to share your experience with others. It is always rewarding to see Martello Alley through the eyes of a first-time visitor.

For those who have never been here, Martello Alley is far more than an art gallery. Tucked away in a historic downtown Kingston alleyway, it is a vibrant artist collective featuring the work of dozens of local artists and artisans. Every corner is filled with colour, creativity, and unexpected discoveries—from original paintings and photography to pottery, jewelry, glasswork, textiles, woodwork, and unique handcrafted gifts.

What makes Martello Alley truly special is its atmosphere. Visitors often describe it as a hidden world waiting to be discovered—a place where art spills out into the alleyway and courtyard, where visitors can meet artists, hear the stories behind the work, and experience Kingston’s creative spirit in a warm and welcoming setting. It is one of those rare places where no two visits are ever quite the same.

Unfortunately, we cannot share the YouTube video directly on TikTok or Instagram, but you can watch it through the link in our bio.

Thank you again to Canuck Girl Travels for shining a spotlight on one of Kingston’s most unique and colourful destinations!

05/31/2026

Yesterday was Denise’s last day. The Delightfully Different Tea Room has now closed its doors for good.

At Martello Alley, we have truly enjoyed having Denise as our neighbour. From the very beginning, we were more than happy to share our courtyard with her for summer food service, and it grew into a wonderful partnership that lasted for years.

For many visitors, their first glimpse of the tea room was those bright blue and yellow tables and chairs, surrounded by flowers, greenery, and the sound of the fountain. With people gathered outside enjoying tea and conversation, it felt like a little European café tucked away in downtown Kingston. The courtyard became a destination in itself.

Today, I took down Denise’s iconic tea room sign from our courtyard, along with her familiar tea chime, and I handed them over to her. It was a bittersweet moment and a reminder that an era has come to an end.

The courtyard was such an inspiring place that countless visitors stopped to take photographs. It even found its way into the artwork of several artists, including our own Everdello, Brenda Bielecki and others who captured its charm in their paintings and creations.

We will miss Denise, her tea room, and the many loyal customers who became regular visitors to the courtyard over the years. But while one chapter closes, another begins. Denise is already looking toward new adventures, including the possibility of creating her own recipe book—a project that many of us would love to see.

As I reflect on all of this, I am reminded of the words spoken in 1980 by Quebec Premier René Lévesque:

“Si j’ai bien compris, vous êtes en train de me dire : à la prochaine fois.”

“If I have understood correctly, you are telling me: until next time.”

Thank you, Denise, for the memories, the friendship, and the joy you brought to our courtyard. It’s not really goodbye. It’s simply… à la prochaine fois.
:

05/31/2026

Yesterday was Denise’s last day. The Delightfully Different Tea Room has now closed its doors for good.

At Martello Alley, we have truly enjoyed having Denise as our neighbour. From the very beginning, we were more than happy to share our courtyard with her for summer food service, and it grew into a wonderful partnership that lasted for years.

For many visitors, their first glimpse of the tea room was those bright blue and yellow tables and chairs, surrounded by flowers, greenery, and the sound of the fountain. With people gathered outside enjoying tea and conversation, it felt like a little European café tucked away in downtown Kingston. The courtyard became a destination in itself.

Today, I took down Denise’s iconic tea room sign from our courtyard, along with her familiar tea chime, and I handed them over to her. It was a bittersweet moment and a reminder that an era has come to an end.

The courtyard was such an inspiring place that countless visitors stopped to take photographs. It even found its way into the artwork of several artists, including our own Everdello, Brenda Bielecki and others who captured its charm in their paintings and creations.

We will miss Denise, her tea room, and the many loyal customers who became regular visitors to the courtyard over the years. But while one chapter closes, another begins. Denise is already looking toward new adventures, including the possibility of creating her own recipe book—a project that many of us would love to see.

As I reflect on all of this, I am reminded of the words spoken in 1980 by Quebec Premier René Lévesque:

“Si j’ai bien compris, vous êtes en train de me dire : à la prochaine fois.”

“If I have understood correctly, you are telling me: until next time.”

Thank you, Denise, for the memories, the friendship, and the joy you brought to our courtyard. It’s not really goodbye. It’s simply… à la prochaine fois.
::

Address

203 B Wellington Street
Kingston, ON
K7K2Y6

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 5pm
Tuesday 10am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 10am - 5pm

Telephone

+16137672966

Website

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