Entering the driveway, I could only say "wow" as I viewed a magnificent French chateau nestling in the hills of Teesdale. This remarkable museum is out of place on British soil, and scandal, romance, passion, and misfortune weave their way through the life stories of its founders -- Josephine and John Bowes.

Josephine and John Bowes were a successful pairing of opposites during their marriage from 1852 until Josephine’s early death in 1874. He was an educated man from a distinguished Teesdale family who served as a Member of Parliament and was a successful business person who liked horse racing. She was an actress and painter from Paris who epitomised French style and lifestyle with a strong interest in public arts. Together, they sought to produce a museum that would be their legacy for local people. French architect Jules Pellechet designed and purpose-built the museum as a public art gallery; it opened in 1892.

The museum, the 20 acres of landscaped park surrounding it, and its art collection were created from nothing over 15 years. The Bowes collected paintings, sculpture, furniture, and textiles from all over Europe but, sadly, they both died before their vision was complete. Their story and dream lives on through this splendid fine- and decorative-art collection. The local area is represented by important archaeological material from County Durham sites such as Binchester Roman Fort, and social history from Teesdale from up to 5,000 years ago.

There is a surprise around every corner. Wonder at paintings by Goya, Canaletto, and others. Allow your mind to race through time in the archaeology and local history galleries. Alternatively, imagine yourself at home surrounded by the opulence of fine furniture, textiles, and ceramics from the French 2nd Empire. The piece de resistance of the museum's collection is the life-size silver swan automaton that will fascinate and enthrall you.

The Museum boasts a collection of European fine- and decorative-arts from 1400-1875 that's unrivalled in the North of England and considered outstanding in Britain. There is particular emphasis on the arts of France, including items from the Bowes' home in Paris. Spanish paintings are another specialisation, and there are good collections of Italian and Northern European paintings, English furniture, and European ceramics and textiles.

Both local and international in its outlook, the museum reflects the mixed origins of its founders. Their combined vision and interest in modern art, design, history, and tradition makes the Bowes Museum a rich and rewarding experience.

The Museum hosts a programme of exhibitions throughout the year that includes an exhibition of work by local craftspeople, displays of North Country craftwork and quilts, and exhibitions of notable local and national artists. In addition, there are special costume displays and a programme of afternoon and evening concerts. These include recitals in the Music Room featuring the Museum's own instruments.