The Bowes Museum

The Bowes Museum is really quite astonishing - a replica French Chateau, purpose built as a museum in the nineteenth century, set in the middle of the rural north east of England. It is certainly a surreal experience, to be driving through a small market town in Teesdale, and suddenly to be confronted with such a palatial structure housing one of the most important British collections of European fine art outside of London. Definitely not what you would expect in your average provincial museum! ● Location The Bowes Museum is to be found at Barnard Castle, in the south of County Durham, a small town otherwise dominated by the ruined castle that gives ...  Read the complete review

The Bowes Museum was originally designed by a French architect by the name of Jules Pellechet, and the house built as a public art gallery. He queen Mother is a descendant of the Bowes family and is now Patron of the Friends. It is all set in large grounds and you are invited to walk around these. LOCATION The Bowes Museum is situated in the town of Barnard Castle in County Durham, just off the A66. It is approximately 20 minutes away from the A1 and is well signposted and easy to get to. OPENING TIMES It is open daily from 11 am until 5pm, and is only closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. ADMISSION CHARGES ...  Read the complete review