The Bowes Museum
Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by Suzy McCullough
The Bowes Museum is an arts and textiles museum in Barnard Castle, County Durham. The museum was purpose-built in the 19th century and has an internationally significant collection of fine and decorative arts.
What is there to do at The Bowes Museum?
At every turn, you can see important and precious works from all over Europe, each with its own story to tell. The most important and significant piece is the 240-year-old Silver Swan. It is a silver automaton and is still in working order which is operated by the museum staff on a daily basis.
The large collection spans three floors with more items than you could possibly list. The museum is surrounded by parks and gardens. They were originally designed by the creators of the museum and today you can enjoy a walk around the grounds. There is also a new children’s play area with a climbing frame, balancing logs and bars, a slide, a large bucket swing, stepping stones and a bridge beam.
There is also a woodland walk with wheelchair and buggy-accessible paths. The park now attracts lots of wildlife and is a popular place to visit. Look out for the wooden totem poles by the entrance to the play area.
Further Information
Is there food and drink available?
There is a cafe serving hot and cold food and drinks. You are welcome to picnic outdoors.
What are the main things to do?
museum dedicated to arts and textiles across three floors, a play area, woodland walks and gardens. There are toilets and a cafe.
What are the ticket prices?
Local Membership £13.50; Membership £15.50; Day Ticket £18.00; Day Ticket incl. Gift Aid £19.80; Under 18s, Full-Time Students and Carers are free.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
Is there parking?
There is free parking.
When are they open?
The museum is open daily but closed on the 25th and 26th of December and the 1st of January. For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.
Dog friendly?
Assistance dogs are welcome and dogs on leads are welcome within the grounds.
Are they accessible?
