About
The Bowes Museum is inviting visitors to step inside after hours for the first in a series of Bowes Lates, a new way to enjoy a cultural evening of art, food and more in a relaxed atmosphere. The event takes place on Saturday, 14 February 2026, from 6pm to 9.30pm.
Designed for everyone to enjoy, the event transforms the museum into a softly illuminated nighttime sanctuary. While falling on Valentine’s Day, the evening focuses on artistic passion to celebrate broader themes of creativity, craftsmanship and culture.
A night of curated experiences
Visitors can tailor their evening by choosing from several ticketed experiences or simply soaking up the atmosphere with a general admission pass.
Brush & Bubbles Join artist Bex Harvey for a creative session exploring landscapes and portraits. Using materials provided, participants will unpack the concept of ‘romance’ in art through symbolism and hidden meanings - all with a glass of fizz in hand and grazing board at the ready, whilst also creating an artwork to take home.
The Bowes Book Club A social night for readers and thinkers with relaxed conversation and curated object displays. Join a welcoming community of curious readers as we explore themes that connect art, culture and creative rebellion.
The first session discusses The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier, a story of craftsmanship, and resilience and also features a curator-led look at the museum’s own world-class glass collection. Please read the book beforehand to get the most from the session.
Café Bowes The award-winning café will serve an evening menu and tables can be reserved via phone on 01833 690606. Walk-ins are also welcome.
General admission ticket holders and Members of the museum can enjoy a walk around the museum at night and a variety of free activities, including:
The Silver Swan Two rare evening performances of the iconic 18th-century automaton at 7pm and 8pm.
The Vaults Exclusive after-hours access to the fashion, furniture and ceramics vaults.
Spotlight Tours Expert-led tours focusing on floriography (the language of flowers), the love story of the Founders, Joséphine and John Bowes, and a sneak peek at the reimagined Founders’ Galleries.
Silent Disco Step into a one-of-a-kind gallery experience and choose from classic tunes from the 70s, 80s, 90s and 00s at our Silent Disco and dance around the gallery after dark!
Artist Workshop Experiment with Gelli plates to create mono prints inspired by the flowers and foliage shown in artworks throughout the museum.
Booking information
General admission is available at the door, but pre-booking is essential for Brush & Bubbles and The Book Club as spaces are limited. To reserve a table in Café Bowes telephone 01833 690606.
For those who really want to ‘engage’ with the evening, there is a special place reserved for any proposals – just contact events@thebowesmuseum.org.uk or call on 01833 690606 and ask for the Events Team to book a slot.
Ticket information with prices together with the evening programme are available on the website thebowesmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/bowes-lates/
The evening is aimed at adults ages 18+ though children are able to come along with adults.
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