The Bowes Museum
The Bowes Museum is a hidden treasure, a jewel in the heart of beautiful Teesdale. The magnificent building stands proud in the historic market town of Barnard Castle housing internationally significant collections of fine and decorative arts.
The Bowes Museum was opened to the public on 10th June 1892 and attracted nearly 63,000 visitors in its first year.
John and Joséphine filled the museum with treasures, so much so that storage and display space comes with a very high premium. At every turn you can see important and precious works from all over Europe, and each piece has its own story to tell. However it is the 230 year-old Silver Swan that is the best-loved object in the museum. The Silver Swan is an English silver automaton, a unique attraction that was bought by the Bowes in 1872. The life size model is still in working order and is operated at the museum on a daily basis.
The diverse collection spans three floors of the magnificent building and contains items too numerous to list. Whether it is paintings by Canaletto or Goya, porcelain produced at Sèvres, or marquetry attributed to André-Charles Boulle it can all be found at The Bowes Museum, which has received Designated status from the government in recognition of the outstanding collection.
Activities in the park and a superb café and shop have helped bring the museum singing and dancing into the 21st century. The magnificent legacy that John and Joséphine left to the people of Teesdale has been cared for to retain its charm and intrigue yet sympathetic developments have made the attraction a popular, vibrant and exciting day out for all.
PARK & GARDENS:
The gardens were originally designed by John and Joséphine Bowes and the formal parterre garden complements this unique building. Today you can explore acres of parkland, enjoy a private picnic or go for a peaceful stroll around the grounds, where there are specimen trees from all over the world.
Events take place in the grounds throughout the year including theatre performances; Teesdale Farmers' Markets; story telling;car rallies and the Halloween Lantern Parade.
The fountains have recently been restored thanks to Northumbrian Water through its employee volunteer scheme.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
The Bowes Museum is open daily. Closed only 25 & 26 December & 1 January.
Galleries & Exhibitions
10.00 – 5.00
£8.00 Adults
£7.00 Concessions
£10.00 6 Month Admission Pass* (Buy Online)
Free entry to Children (under 16)
Free entry to Carers
Groups
£6.00, (pre booked groups of 12+)
Café Bowes
10.00 – 4.30
Free entry
Shop
10.00 – 4.40
Free entry
Reading Room
Operating on a two-week rota, opening times will be Tuesdays 10.30 – 4.00 & Wednesdays 10.30 – 1.00, alternating with Wednesdays 1.30 – 4.00 & Thursdays 10.30 – 4.00.
LOTS TO SEE & DO:
The Bowes Museum contains the greatest collections of European Fine and Decorative Arts in the North of England. It is a great day out for all of the family.
New!
Take a look at the new Fashion & Textile Gallery, showcasing the finest items from the Museum's extensive and world renowned collection, and enjoy the new, sparkling, Silver and Metals Gallery.
Galleries:
With 20 impressive galleries over 3 floors, the Museum has an abundance of wonderful works of art spanning the 14th to 20th centuries - Don't forget, the famous Silver Swan plays at 2.00 p.m. everyday.
Exhibitions:
A frequently changing programme of exhibitions bringing nationally and internationally renowned works of art to the North East.
Cafe Bowes:
Enjoy fabulous views over Teesdale while indulging yourself with a homemade lunch or snack alongside our speciality teas, coffees and wines.
Shop:
Takeaway a souvenir or special gift to remind you of your visit.
Park and Gardens:
Experience the wonderfully peaceful and tranquil surroundings by walking, enjoying a picnic or simply taking a seat. Activity bags for energetic kids can be borrowed from the museum.
Family Activities:
The museum has lots of activities for children to enjoy whilst visiting the museum, such as trails, activity sacks and dressing up areas.
Address:
The Bowes Museum
Barnard Castle
County Durham
DL12 8NP