Cowper & Newton Museum
Cowper & Newton Museum, Orchard Side, Market Place, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 4AJ
Step back in time at Orchard Side, the home of poet and letter writer William Cowper. He took pleasure in nature, his garden and his friendship with John Newton. Find out more about these two significant 18th century characters through the Cowper & Newton Story. We tell the story of John Newton's early years at sea, participation in the 18th century slave trade, and the events which led to him becoming a church minister, writer and preacher. See many of William Cowper’s personal belongings. Discover his sense of humour, poetry and writings, his struggles with mental health and his love of animals—especially his pet hares. Try out Georgian fashion (for all ages) in our Dressing Up Room. Learn about the importance of the lacemaking industry in Olney, appreciate the poverty of the lacemakers and the hardships they faced. Visit the Gardens of William Cowper, created at a time when seeds and plants were arriving from North America. Explore the sensory pleasures of our Walled Flower Garden, managed organically, with wildlife encouraged through the creation of suitable habitats. Our Summer House Garden is a productive walled Victorian-style kitchen garden, featuring Cowper’s old Summer House. The entrance features our Gift Shop. In the Courtyard the Viper Barn provides an interactive video introduction for visitors. You can then walk through the Kitchen, Hall, Parlour and Bedroom where Cowper lived. Don’t miss our Three Hares Gallery with monthly exhibitions of art & crafts.
Timings
- Thursday 17 September:
- 1100 - 1600
Location & directions
Cowper & Newton Museum, Orchard Side, Market Place, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 4AJ
- Directions:
- We are on the Market Place, two doors to the left of Costa Coffee and to the right of Punch Opticians.
- Contact on day:
- Paula Noble (House Manager)
- Telephone number:
- +441234711516
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The heritage house is over 3 floors with many uneven stairs. The first 3 rooms are easily accessible with shallow steps, thereafter there are many stairs. The gardens are fully accessible.
