Heritage Open Day 2024

Celebrate culture, history, artists, designers and makers for FREE this Heritage Open Day at The Bowes Museum.

Come and see the wonderful and exotic collection of Joséphine and John Bowes which include lavish paintings, exquisite ceramics, fascinating textiles and mesmerising silverware and metal work. The much-adored Silver Swan automaton will perform twice at 11.45 and 2.00 for those who want to see the Victorian beauty in action.

The Musuem has a jam-packed programme of activities for the day including taster sessions, artist-led workshops, a specially designed trail looking into ‘classicalism and classism’ within travel during the 18th and 19th centuries and informal tours throughout the day. This day is the perfect way to get to know The Bowes Museum and explore a one-of-a-kind collection.

Visit the award-winning Café of the Year, Café Bowes and the shop to treat yourself to something quintessentially Bowes, followed by a stroll around the parkland.

You can enjoy more free days like this by taking advantage of a reduced membership price on the day and visit for free for 13 months.*

*Discounted membership is only available to new members on 7th September. For more information about this offer, get in touch or ask the Welcome Team at the reception desk.