The Bowes Museum is delighted to announce the return of its much-loved Winter Market, taking place from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 December 2025. Each year, this festive highlight transforms the museum and its grounds into a seasonal wonderland, with over 100 artists, designers, makers and food and drink stall holders.
This event encourages visitors to support both local and regional stallholders selling a wide variety of unique products, perfect for festive gifts. Artists, designers and makers showcase everything from fine jewellery, handmade decorations and ceramics to textiles, original artwork, candles and skincare. Food and drink stalls offer delicious street food, sweet treats, locally brewed beers and soothing hot drinks. With such a wide choice, there’s sure to be a special gift for everyone.
Alongside the market, visitors can enjoy free entry to the museum’s galleries and exhibitions, making it the perfect festive day out for families, friends and shoppers alike. The event also offers a lively programme of activities, including artist-led workshops inspired by the season and performances by carollers. Bisque pottery workshops in association with Mud & More are taking place across the weekend in the Pippa Hale: Pet Project exhibition space.
Over 4000 visitors attended last year and this year tickets are just £7.00 per adult when purchased before 8 December, rising to £8.00 afterwards. Entry remains free for under-18s, carers and full-time students. As the Winter Market is a special event, Members of The Bowes Museum will need to buy a ticket for admission. Tickets can be purchased here.
The market stalls are located within the grounds at the entrance of the museum and continue into museum’s Picture Galleries, Jubilee Room, creating a unique setting that combines heritage with festive cheer.
Free parking is available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis, with additional parking located in Barnard Castle, a short walk away. Accessibility is a key focus for welcoming all visitors, with specialist outdoor matting for the stalls in the museum’s grounds and lift access.
David Nicholls, Head of Commercial and Visitor Welcome at The Bowes Museum, said: “The Winter Market is one of the highlights of our year, and we’re thrilled to welcome visitors back again this December. It’s a wonderful opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere, explore the museum and discover unique, handmade gifts while supporting local makers and businesses.”
The Winter Market is just one feature of the museum’s seasonal programme of events and activities designed to bring joy and inspiration throughout the winter months. A full programme will be released closer to the time.
Café Bowes is offering Festive Afternoon Teas throughout December and seasonal drinks. There is also a delicious, locally sourced, traditional, seasonal menu including turkey, salmon and mince pies. Groups of 6 or more are advised to pre-order. Booking can be made by contacting Café Bowes on 01833 690606.
The museum Shop’s festive range offers everything from bespoke products inspired by the museum including cards and tree decorations to luxurious soaps and delicious sweets.
A limited number of stallholder spaces are still available for traders wishing to be part of this everpopular event. If traders are interested in taking a stall at this year’s event, they can contact the museum’s events team on winter@thebowesmuseum.org.uk.