Celebrate all things festive at
The Bowes Museum
Be enchanted by the magically festive atmosphere at The Bowes Museum this winter time.
Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the season as the ever-popular, highlight of the regional calendar, Winter Market returns to transform the Museum into a winter wonderland, with dozens of stalls from local artisan makers nestled in the pretty parterre garden and throughout the stunning picture galleries. Listen to carol singers, enjoy mulled wine and gourmet treats while browsing stocking fillers, unique handcrafted gifts and Christmas decorations.
Join themed Artist Makers sessions throughout December where you can create your very own lino printed Christmas card, festive decorations, winter swans and snowflakes.
Foodies will love Café Bowes’ special, seasonal, locally sourced festive lunch menu featuring tempting turkey, scrumptious salmon, and wild mushroom and chestnut arancini, to name just a few dishes – as well as a not-to-be missed Festive Afternoon Tea.
And with a Festive Late Night Christmas Shopping event, there’s something for everyone at The Bowes Museum this winter time.
Join artist Cath Hodson as she leads a printing workshop inspired by the beautiful Silver Swan automaton. Drop-in session, free with Winter Market admission. Recommended for ages 5+.
LEARN MOREPlease note: Both workshops are FULLY BOOKED. In this 2-hour workshop, artist Cath Hodson will take you on a crash course in Linocut printing. Create your own winter cards for your loved ones this season, inspired by winter scenes within the Picture Galleries. Learn the basic techniques to get you started in the craft of
LEARN MOREJoin artist Zoe Allen to make your own wintery wonderland. Snowflakes will be dancing at The Bowes! Drop-in session, free with Winter Market admission. Recommended for ages 5+.
LEARN MOREJoin artist Jane Young and get into the festive spirit as you use the collection and landscapes as inspiration to create festive decorations in the Create Space. Suitable for ages 5+. Upcoming sessions: Saturday 7 December & Saturday 21st December.
LEARN MOREThe galleries and grounds of the Museum will be magically transformed in to a winter wonderland with dozens of stalls from local artisan traders nested in amongst the twinkling lights of the pretty parterre gardens and the stunning 2nd floor picture galleries as the enchanting aromas and sounds of the season returns with ever popular
LEARN MORETreat yourself or someone you love to a fabulously festive afternoon tea in the award-winning Café Bowes. Escape the hustle and bustle and relax in the tranquil surroundings as you enjoy delicious home prepared food. Delight your tastebuds with festive bakes, cupcakes, mince pies, mulled cider and more. Booking is essential. This can be done
LEARN MOREA friendly, informal and informative introduction to the exhibitions, collections or building. Led by the Museum’s team of Visitor Assistants, Curators and Volunteer Tour Guides, join us for a daily tour that takes up to 30 minutes to find out more.
LEARN MORETime for The Bowes’ youngest visitors to explore and play in the Conversation Gallery, investigate materials and be creative in this self-led, free-play session. Suitable for children up to 5 years. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
LEARN MOREJoin artist Charlie Brookes and get into the festive spirit as you use the collection and landscapes to create some festive clay objects. Suitable for ages 5+.
LEARN MOREEnjoy the Museum decked out for Christmas after dark with an evening of wandering around the 1st floor galleries, see the highly accalimed Kith and Kinship: Norman Cornish and L.S. Lowry and Framing Fashion: Art and Inspiration from a Private Collection of Vivienne Westwood exhibitions. Browse the Museum shop or enjoy a bite to eat in Café Bowes. Free
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