The Bowes Museum was the gift of John and Joséphine Bowes to the people of Barnard Castle and beyond.
Although French in design and inspiration, it was built by teams of skilled local workers under the direction of the architect John Edward Watson and the builder Joseph Kyle. The grounds were landscaped and maintained by specialised gardeners throughout the 20th century.
The Bowes Museum is unique in being a 19th century purpose-built museum set in its own contemporary landscaped park. Although it is now in the care of separate trustees, it is supported by Durham County Council and the Arts Council, and continues to exert a national and international interest and influence far beyond the beautiful region of Teesdale in the North of England where it is situated.
Designed by Jules Pellechet (1829-1903) with modifications and additions by local craftsmen.
On view in John Bowes’ home town of Barnard Castle, Co.Durham
http://www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk
