Hestercombe House, at the centre of its four important period gardens, not only hosts a nationally acclaimed contemporary art gallery, but also houses the Hestercombe House and Gardens Collection which is dedicated to collecting and caring for over 3000 objects that have a relationship to the estate, its past owners, as well as the designers of its landscapes, such as Sir Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll, and the Georgian owner, artist and designer, Coplestone Warre Bampfylde. Hestercombe also hosts a growing collection of contemporary artist’s works.
Administered by Arts Council England on behalf of the UK Accreditation Partnership, Accreditation is the benchmark for sustainable, focused and trusted museums that inspire the confidence of the public, funding and governing bodies. It is delivered in partnership across the UK.
Museum Accreditation means that Hestercombe House and Gardens is properly managed and governed to the nationally agreed industry standard taking proper care of its collections, sharing them with visitors and keeping them safe for future generations.
Accreditation opens up exciting funding opportunities, allows museums to host unique exhibitions and gives access to professional advice and support. It also gives confidence to donors and sponsors who may wish to support the museum in preserving heritage and inspiring future generations.
Accreditation covers museums of all types and sizes - from the smallest volunteer-run museums to national museums – and more than 1,700 museums are currently taking part in the scheme across the UK. More information about the Accreditation scheme can be found here.
Tim Martin, Creative Director at Hestercombe Gardens Trust, said: “We’re thrilled that Hestercombe Gardens has been awarded museum accreditation status. Thank you to the Arts Council England for recognising and awarding us with this accolade. Hestercombe House and Gardens has a rich and diverse history – the first record of the estate is from an Anglo-Saxon charter of 682. We can’t wait to share more of our history with visitors and the local community.”
Emmie Kell, Director Museums and Cultural Property at Arts Council England, said: "We’re delighted that Hestercombe Gardens has been successful in gaining their Accreditation status. This means that their Collections will be looked after and maintained offering inspiration, enjoyment and learning for the local community and visitors to enjoy now and in the future.”
FURTHER INFORMATION
To contact the Press Office please email press@hestercombe.com.
