In 1901 Sir Merton Russell-Cotes built a dream house as a gift for his wife Annie. They filled it with their extraordinary collection of paintings, sculptures and treasures collected on their travels around the world. Step back in time and discover this grand Victorian Villa overlooking the sea in Bournemouth, with its rich atmosphere, masterpieces by great artists like Dante Rossetti, local artworks, exquisite sculptures, sumptuous interior decoration, a Victorian garden, and spectacular views. Enjoy light lunches, tea and cake in our Cafe, and pick up a souvenir in our Museum shop.
Art & Design History & Anthropology Local Historic house Ethnology Garden & Park Modern art
#34 Art & Design in England #81 History & Anthropology in England #7 Ethnology museums in England #22 Gardens & parks in England #43 Historic houses in England #4 Local museums in England #9 Modern art museums in England #46 Art & Design in United Kingdom #99 History & Anthropology in United Kingdom #7 Ethnology museums in United Kingdom #25 Gardens & parks in United Kingdom #55 Historic houses in United Kingdom #4 Local museums in United Kingdom #15 Modern art museums in United Kingdom #42 Ethnology museums in Europe #80 Gardens & parks in Europe #8 Local museums in Europe #83 Modern art museums in Europe
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Bank Holiday Mondays, 10am – 5pm.
0 – 4 | Free |
5 – 17 | £5.00 |
18+ | £9.50 |
Museums Association | Free |
Family (2 adults, 3 children) | £25.00 |
Students | £5.00 |
East Cliff Promenade, Bournemouth
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum has 1 rating.
The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth, England, is a cultural treasure that offers visitors a rich experience of art and history. Located in a stunning Victorian villa overlooking the sea, the museum houses an eclectic collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The museum's strength lies in its diverse collection, which includes Pre-Raphaelite works, Japanese artifacts, and pieces from various world cultures. Visitors often praise the well-preserved interiors of the house, which provide an authentic glimpse into Victorian life and tastes. The ornate decor and original furnishings add to the immersive experience.
Many reviewers appreciate the museum's manageable size, allowing for a thorough exploration in a couple of hours. The temporary exhibitions are frequently noted as interesting and well-curated, adding variety to the permanent collection.
The museum's location is another highlight, with its clifftop setting offering beautiful views of the coastline. The surrounding gardens, though small, are pleasant and well-maintained, providing a nice area for relaxation.
On the downside, some visitors find the entry fee a bit steep, especially for families. Additionally, accessibility can be an issue for those with mobility challenges due to the nature of the historic building, with some areas only reachable by stairs.
A few reviewers mention that certain areas of the museum could benefit from better lighting to enhance the viewing experience of the artworks. Some also note that more detailed information about some exhibits would be appreciated.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is generally highly regarded for its unique combination of art, architecture, and history. It offers a captivating look into Victorian collecting practices and tastes, making it a worthwhile visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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