Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

About

We are pleased to welcome you back!

Our top priority is to protect you, our staff and our volunteers, so we’ve put comprehensive social distancing and cleaning measures in place.We have introduced a one-way system and also reduced our visitor number capacity to ensure we can manage social distancing and maintain public safety. Initially we will be open on a reduced number of days.

We’re introducing a range of measures to help adhere to social distancing guidelines and hygiene standards.

These changes will make your visit slightly different from what you’re used to, however, the staff team are working hard to ensure that your visit the Russell-Cotes is still as rich, rewarding and enjoyable as ever.

To visit the museum, you will need to have pre-booked a ticket via our website.  We are also operating a separate entrance and exit, and throughout your visit there will be a one-way route in place.

The Russell-Cotes is a charity and relies on admission ticket sales for much of its income, so we would like to thank you for your continued support at this unprecedented time. For more information visit the website.

The museum will be open Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10am – 5pm.  Please check the website for the most up to date information as these days and times are subject to change.

Visit the Hidden Highlights Life in Lockdown exhibition from 24 October - 18 April 2021.

 

Welcome to the Russell-Cotes: House Gallery Garden – One of the most fascinating historic houses in England. The Russell-Cotes was the home of two Victorian collectors and travel enthusiasts, Sir Merton and Lady Annie Russell-Cotes.

There is a regular programme of exhibitions featuring both art and artefacts from the Russell-Cotes own extensive collections, and talks, tours and events take place throughout the year. See the website for full details, visit russellcotes.com.

“For many years I had it in mind that someday I would build a house after my own heart, as an offering of love and affection to my wife.”
Merton Russell-Cotes

In 1901, Merton gave his wife Annie a dream house on a cliff-top, overlooking the sea. It was an extraordinary birthday present – lavish splendid, and with a touch of fantasy.
They filled this exotic seaside villa with beautiful objects from their travels across the world, and lined the walls with a remarkable collection of British art, creating a unique atmosphere in a most dramatic setting.

Then they sealed it in time and gave it to the future…

The main hall has a remarkable collection of high Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite art, including many works by women artists. Other rooms house souvenirs from the couple’s travels, with works from Russia, Australia, New Zealand and the world-renowned Japanese collection. With stunning views, a serene cliff-top garden and stylish café, Merton’s extravagant gift to his wife is one of Bournemouth’s most intriguing visitor attractions.

“The most enthralling experience in Bournemouth”
Rough Guide

“A must-see, even on the sunniest day in Bournemouth”
The Guardian Travel

Additional information:

Access: the entrance is via a steep slope. Electric scooters must be outside, however a manual wheelchair is available. All parts of the building can be reached by lift, except the upper floor.