Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth

Description:

The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is located on the coast overlooking Poole Bay with stunning views stretching from the Purbeck Hills in the West to the Isle of Wight in the East; only 2 minuteds from Bournemouth Pier and less than 5 minutes  walk from the town's main shopping centre.

For the more energetic visitor bicycle racks are located on East Cliff Promenade next to the museum entrance, however bikes are not permiited in the Museum's historic garden. For the less energetic visitor the closest car park is on Bath Road which has access onto East Cliff Promenade. Parking is also available on the cliff top as well as the shopping centre car parks less than 5 minutes walk away. You can walk using a beautiful coastal walk from Poole  in the West to Christchurch  in the East.

Buggies pushchairs and large luggage such as rucksacks are discouraged because of the open nature of the collections and exhibits as well as the fabric of the building which is listed Grade II*.

The Museum has a licensed café set in a unique, light and airy space and offers freshly prepared imaginative food and beverages with daily specials. Vegetarian and children's options are available. It is open between 10am and 4pm.

There is also a Russell-Cotes shop which sells a range of products related to the house, its collections and current exhibitions, including books, postcards and gifts. Local artist's and craftspeople's work is often on sale in the conservatory, next to the shop.

The Museum holds fascinating collections from the travels around the world of Sir Merton and Lady Russell-Cotes, including their world famous collection of Victorian art and Japanese art and artefacts.  There are new displays, a delightful family gallery and newly restored Victoriam gardens.