Built in the French style in the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle surrounded by the stunning County Durham countryside, The Bowes Museum houses Joséphine and John Bowes’ significant collection of European fine and decorative arts. Its collections, which span the 14th to 19th centuries, includes masterworks by Sassetta, El Greco,

Francisco de Goya, Gainsborough and Canaletto to name a few.  It also has three floors of galleries filled with fashion and textiles, furniture, ceramics, sculpture, and silver and metals too.

The permanent collection is complemented by a changing exhibitions and varied events programme.

Café Bowes offers a delicious seasonal menu featuring light bites, cakes and biscuits as well as lunches – all made with produce sourced from local suppliers.  The Museum shop has lots of stationery, books and memorabilia, perfect for a gift or souvenir of your visit.

With wondrous of treasures at every turn and 22 acres of parkland to explore, there’s something for everyone at The Bowes Museum.