The Bowes Museum opened to the public in 1892 and has been delighting groups ever since.
Purpose-built in the French style and sitting in the very English countryside of County Durham it contains the greatest collection of European fine and decorative arts in the north of England. Its galleries are filled with masterworks by Canaletto, El Greco, Turner, Van Dyck, Gainsborough, and more, as well as ceramics, sculpture, furniture, fashion & textiles, and silver & metals.
It was created by the philanthropists Joséphine and John Bowes. Joséphine was an actress and artist, a pioneer ahead of her time and John was a businessman and the son of the 10th Earl of Strathmore; together they created this magnificent Museum to share their art collection.
With an acclaimed exhibition programme and wondrous treasures at every turn, not forgetting the life-size Silver Swan musical automaton which turns 250 this year, your group will remember its visit to The Bowes Museum for years to come.
The museum offers friendly and knowledgeable tours with experienced guides as well as the chance to book an engaging talk with specialist curators and conservators if your group has a particular area of interest.
There are plenty of food options for your group’s needs, ranging from hiring a private dining space to enjoying drop-in refreshments and a bite to eat in Café Bowes. There’s also a tempting gift shop to delight in. The Museum is fully accessible and offers high-quality, bespoke packages for all your group’s needs.
More information available at www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk
