This museum showcases the lives and works of two of Olney's most famous sons, William Cowper, a poet, and John Newton, a slave trader turned abolitionist and hymn writer. The museum is housed in Cowper's former home, Orchard Side, which dates back to the 18th century. It features exhibits on the lives and achievements of both men, including Cowper's poetry and Newton's role in the abolition of slavery. The museum also explores the history of Olney and its people, with displays on the town's lace-making industry and its nonconformist heritage.
A lovely little museum, with enough for adults and children...my kids loved it as there were felt hares to search for and 'children only' activities in each room. The gardens were not at there best due to the drought but, once again, there were hares to hunt for and the children enjoyed exploring.
A truly interesting and inspiring museum staffed by really nice people, we had an awesome two hours, entrance price is very reasonable and gives you entry for 12 months, we will definitely return. The garden is very pleasant and surprisingly large but very well tended.
A gem of a museum. My second visit but I'll be back. Derek Martin was a wonderful, well-informed guide and so patient with our questions (Jane Austen Cambridge Group).
The Three Hares Gallery at the museum is currently exhibiting 'Faces and People', a joint exhibition from Jenny Fisk and Chris Howard. What a treat! Wonderful and such instantly-recognisable portraits adorn the walls! David Bowie, Marc Bolan, Timothee Chalomet, Liza Minnelli are there, to name but a few! There are even beautiful mugs and Tshirts with famous faces printed on. Wow! Bravo Jenny! Chris, by contrast, gives us some fab, wild, bizarre and funny takes on aspects of Milton Keynes, where he has long resided, in different parts. His pictures are a must-see; strangely attractive, in every sense!. Great! Thanks both. Well worth a visit and you can, of course, tour the superb Cowper and Newton Museum and Gardens whilst there with the annual pass a steal at PS10, yes, for the year!! Enjoy! Not to be missed!
Fascinating. The house is atmospheric and homely even though it is a museum. The garden is very peaceful and I imagine very pretty in summer. It contains a tiny writer's room. The volunteers are friendly and knowledgeable. The shop sells cards and crafts by local artists . Enjoyed a visit again this summer. Please see photos below.
A fascinating Georgian town house museum which tells you about the lives and relationships of 3 people; Cowper, an influential poet, Newton, a writer of hymns and Mary Unwin, a companion and carer. There is also information on the history of Olney. Two tranquil gardens to the rear of the property are excellent places to sit and relax.
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Toilets
Restaurant
Good for kids
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A lovely little museum, with enough for adults and children...my kids loved it as there were felt hares to search for and 'children only' activities in each room. The gardens were not at there best due to the drought but, once again, there were hares to hunt for and the children enjoyed exploring.
A truly interesting and inspiring museum staffed by really nice people, we had an awesome two hours, entrance price is very reasonable and gives you entry for 12 months, we will definitely return. The garden is very pleasant and surprisingly large but very well tended.
A gem of a museum. My second visit but I'll be back. Derek Martin was a wonderful, well-informed guide and so patient with our questions (Jane Austen Cambridge Group).
The Three Hares Gallery at the museum is currently exhibiting 'Faces and People', a joint exhibition from Jenny Fisk and Chris Howard. What a treat! Wonderful and such instantly-recognisable portraits adorn the walls! David Bowie, Marc Bolan, Timothee Chalomet, Liza Minnelli are there, to name but a few! There are even beautiful mugs and Tshirts with famous faces printed on. Wow! Bravo Jenny! Chris, by contrast, gives us some fab, wild, bizarre and funny takes on aspects of Milton Keynes, where he has long resided, in different parts. His pictures are a must-see; strangely attractive, in every sense!. Great! Thanks both. Well worth a visit and you can, of course, tour the superb Cowper and Newton Museum and Gardens whilst there with the annual pass a steal at PS10, yes, for the year!! Enjoy! Not to be missed!
Fascinating. The house is atmospheric and homely even though it is a museum. The garden is very peaceful and I imagine very pretty in summer. It contains a tiny writer's room. The volunteers are friendly and knowledgeable. The shop sells cards and crafts by local artists . Enjoyed a visit again this summer. Please see photos below.
A fascinating Georgian town house museum which tells you about the lives and relationships of 3 people; Cowper, an influential poet, Newton, a writer of hymns and Mary Unwin, a companion and carer. There is also information on the history of Olney. Two tranquil gardens to the rear of the property are excellent places to sit and relax.
