About

Join us today as we visit the market town of Barnard Castle in County Durham located on the north bamk of the River Tees.  The town is named after and built around a medieval castle.  Once a key stronghold in the north, today its ruins provide an atmospheric walk through some of Britain’s most intriguing history, centred around royal power and revolt.  In the afternoon we visit The Bowes Museum, built in the style of a French château and set within 22 acres of landscaped parkland, overlooks the breathtaking Teesdale countryside. Inside, it houses a world-class collection of over 58,000 objects, with highlights including works by renowned masters such as Goya, Canaletto, and Van Dyck. Among its treasures, the viral Silver Swan, an 18th-century automaton which remains a firm favourite, captivating visitors with its lifelike movements.  Included in the cost you can see  yjr multi-gallery exhibition honouring one of fashion’s most provocative and imaginative British designers, Vivienne Westwood (1941-2022). 

Featuring many pieces from rarely seen private collections, Vivienne Westwood: Rebel – Storyteller – Visionary offers an unprecedented glimpse into Westwood’s artistry, one that defied convention and challenged the fashion world. Uncover the making of Westwood’s work through mock-up calico toiles and digitally deconstructed garments, alongside complete ensembles that unfold chronologically, paired with historic objects from The Bowes Museum’s own collection. 

This exhibition is the result of a collaboration between The Bowes Museum, Peter Smithson and other private collectors. It is not an institutional partnership with the Vivienne Westwood brand. 

Date

Location

Barnard Castle & Bowes Museum (ADM Included) 2026
Barnard Castle,

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