The Bowes Museum
The Bowes Museum is a wonderful anomaly; a French-style chateau nestling in the historic market town of Barnard Castle in the heart of the stunning countryside that constitutes the North Pennines.The Grade I listed building, the first in the UK to be designed in metric, is home to wonderful collections of European fine and decorative arts assembled by its founders, John and Josephine Bowes. The couple were knowledgeable and avid collectors, with the purpose-built Museum a natural outcome of their shared fervour. The Museum is undergoing a renaissance which will see the transformation of galleries and amenities aimed at creating a more pleasurable environment and enjoyable experience for visitors. Following its conservation, the unique, iconic Silver Swan musical automaton, the only one of its kind in the world, will be stunningly displayed with new interpretation in Spring 2009. The Museum’s Silver and Metals collection will have its own gallery which will allow for the display of previously unseen items, and a stunning new Textiles and Dress Gallery will show off these outstanding collections to best advantage. See website for more details. Researchers and students will be catered for with the creation of a spectacular reading room, purpose built to easily access the Museum’s archive and library. The Bowes Museum also boasts the acclaimed Cafe Bowes, a gift shop, beautiful parkland and landscaped gardens, making for an excellent day out…
