Bowes Book Club

Embrace curiosity and join the conversation as we explore stories that celebrate the arts, culture and creativity. Each session will showcase a hand-picked selection of objects from the collection and encourage lively discussion.

This is a perfect opportunity for reading lovers and museum enthusiasts to enjoy a new experience in an inspiring setting. Sessions explore a range of perspectives, with fresh insights into works of fiction, non-fiction and historical writing.

Please note: books will not be provided, so please ensure you can get one before the session.

Suitable for ages 18+. Tickets cost £10, plus museum admission. If you are a museum Member, this will be verified on the day. If you are not a Member, please arrive early so you can pay for a day ticket/join as a Member. 

Upcoming Sessions:

Sunday 27 September: The Lady and the Unicorn by Tracy Chevalier

This session will be introduced by Rachel Whitworth, Curator of Fashion and Textiles, who will explore links to The Bowes Museum’s tapestry collection and the methods and techniques used to create these incredible pieces.

Sunday 18 October: The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell

This session will be introduced by Jane Whittaker, Collections Manager, who will explore connections to Renaissance Italian through paintings and portraits in the museum’s collection.

Sunday 22 November: Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney

This session will be introduced by Rachel Whitworth, Curator of Fashion and Textiles, who will explore links between the novel’s themes of traditional anniversary gifts reflected in materials from cotton to silk.

Sunday 20 December: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

This session will be introduced by Howard Coutts, Curator of Fine Art and Design, who will explore links to the museum’s collection of historic books.

Please contact the learning team at  learn@thebowesmusuem.org.uk if you have access requirements, so the session can be adapted to suit your needs.

To reserve your place click ‘book tickets’ and select the ticket that suits you. We’ll confirm your membership when you arrive, or you can pay for a day ticket/ join as a member on the day.