The Bowes Museum

The young and the young-at-heart can explore The Bowes Museum through the provision of interactive games and activities throughout the Museum.

Grab yourselves a family guidebook from the Reception Desk and explore the collections to your hearts' content!

Events, including our ever-popular family fun days and art and craft workshops take place throughout the year at weekends and during the school holidays.

The new Story Garden is also open regularly for tales of adventure and feats of daring do!

The beautiful park and gardens, featuring the newly opened play area and woodland walks, are an endless source of pleasure for family visitors.

The recent addition of a nature trail complements our 'Bags of Fun' which have been filled with games and activities and can be enjoyed in the grounds.

Both are available from the Museum's Reception Desk.

From the famous Silver Swan to the infamous two-headed calf, The Bowes Museum has lots to offer on a fun filled family day out!

Toilets

The Museum has public toilets on the first floor. An accessible toilet can be found on the ground floor along to the East side of Reception. In addition, there are public toilets outside at the rear of the building which are available from 08:00.

Baby food facilities

Baby Changing facilities can be found in the Ladies Toilet on the ground floor. Milk warming facilities are available in Cafe Bowes.

Gift shop

Our shop presents a wide range of gifts, books, cards, confectionery and mementoes including many exclusive items inspired by the collections and exhibition programme.

Eating information

Cafe Bowes is situated on the ground floor and offers a variety of hot and cold locally sourced food and drink for all visitors. The shop sells a range of snacks and goodies while the beautiful park and gardens provide the ideal environment for a relaxed picnic.