A magnificent French château, housing collections of fine & decorative arts, fashion & textiles.
The Charity's objectives are to advance the public's education and enjoyment of art, craft, design and history, in particular, but not exclusively, by acquiring, operating and maintaining The Bowes Museum, its collections and associated grounds at Barnard Castle, County Durham. Over the last few years the Trustees and staff have carried out a wide range of developments, including capital projects, partnership working and consultation, and have raised its profile nationally and internationally.
Why the community needs usThe Museum offers visitors and the local community a vibrant exhibition programme, bringing objects and exhibitions of national and international significance to the North. Schools have access to high quality art and educational expertise and the conservation team supports smaller institutions in the area and cares for our own collections for future generations to enjoy. The park is used by many and the Museum contributes to the local rural economy and is an iconic landmark in Upper Teesdale.
Our impact on the communityWith your support, we can continue to share with visitors its diverse collections of fashion, art, ceramics, furniture, silver and archaeology, creating engaging and thought-provoking interpretation to capture the imaginations of al audiences. In 2015 it undertook a step-change in delivering a high profile, internationally significant exhibition, the UK's only retrospective of Yves Saint Laurent's work. As well as caring for the collections, it hopes to further develop the exhibition programme.
