From 11 to 13 December 2026, The Bowes Museum will transform its galleries and
parkland for its annual seasonal market bringing together more than 100 artisan stalls,
delicious food and drink, live entertainment and creative activities for all ages. Combining
a bustling unique shopping experience with access to the museum’s galleries and grounds,
The Winter Market offers a festive day out for visitors of all ages.
Festive Shopping
Browse artisan stalls throughout the museum galleries and grounds, showcasing
handmade gifts, jewellery, crafts and confectionery from independent makers and local
businesses. Shoppers can also discover unique stocking fillers in the museum shop,
inspired by current exhibitions and highlights from the collection.
Food and Drink
Visitors can make a day of their visit with a wide range of seasonal food and drink. Street
food vendors will serve everything from traditional winter favourites to international
flavours, including Indian cuisine and Bratwurst sausages. A well-stocked bar will offer
warming mulled wine and hot chocolate, while Café Bowes will be open from 10am to
4pm, serving hot meals from its seasonal menu until 3pm.
Artist-Led Activities
If it gets too cold outside, head into the sanctuary of the Create Space and get stuck into
hands-on activities, inspired by the season. Each day brings a different artist-led session,
from creating a robin that flaps its wings or an elegant shimmering swan, to designing your
own wrapping paper. From crafting to drawing, there are plenty of activities to keep
children and families entertained.
Entertainment
Throughout the weekend, live musical performances will add to the seasonal atmosphere
both indoors and across the museum grounds. Carol singers will fill the galleries with
festive melodies, providing a charming backdrop to the museum’s collections and historic
interiors. The popular Scalextric display will also return, offering entertainment for visitors
of all ages.
Ticket Information
Winter Market Tickets cost £7.50 per adult when booked by 7 December and £9 thereafter.
Members of The Bowes Museum must also book tickets for this event. Admission is free for
under-18s, full-time students and carers. The event is recommended for all ages, and
children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets to the Winter Market include access to:
- More than 100 stalls offering unique artisan gifts from independent designers,
artists and makers. - Seasonal food and drink, including street food and warming winter treats.
- An artist-led workshop, with the opportunity to create a festive-inspired artwork to
take home. - Seasonal entertainment, including carol singers and family-friendly activities.
- Access to the museum’s galleries and collections.
David Nicholls, Enterprises Manager at The Bowes Museum, said:
“The Winter Market is one of The Bowes Museum’s most popular annual events, bringing
together independent artists, designers, makers and food producers for a truly special
weekend. Whether visitors are looking for unique gifts, seasonal food and drink, creative
family activities or simply the opportunity to enjoy the museum in a festive atmosphere,
there is something for everyone to discover.”
Tickets and full event details are available from The Bowes Museum website:
thebowesmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/the-winter-market/
Accessible facilities are available throughout the museum and grounds, including
specialist outdoor matting for stalls in the museum grounds and lift access. Free on-site
parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with additional parking nearby.
