Russell-Cotes Gallery Tour

Summer Visit to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth  -  Tuesday 22 September 2026.

The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is a historic house and art gallery on Bournemouth’s East Cliff, overlooking the sea. Completed in 1901, this dream house was given by Sir Merton Russell-Cotes to his wife Annie for her 66th birthday. Called East Cliff Hall, the house was an extraordinary, extravagant birthday present, and Annie and Merton filled their exotic seaside villa with beautiful objects from their travels across the world, and lined the walls with a remarkable collection of British art, creating a unique atmosphere in a most dramatic setting. 

Today, you can enjoy visiting Annie and Merton’s house as if you had stepped back in time, without barriers and bars. As well as exploring this wonderful Victorian home, the Gallery's temporary exhibition programme not only highlights treasures from the collection, but also brings renowned artworks to Bournemouth.

The guided tour of the "Victorian Villa" starts at 11.30am.

A sandwich lunch will be served at around 12.30pm. 

Upon entry, ample time will be available for viewing the Gallery's comprehensive collection, together with the Special Exhibition of Cicely Mary Barker's Flower Fairies. The exhibition is absolutely enchanting, even if fairies aren't your thing !!

Cost of the Visit :

Entry to the gallery - £10 ( Free to Art Fund members, bring your card!) 

Gallery Tour and Lunch - £12.30 

Public parking is nearby. If you would like a lift to Bournemouth contact Sue Mayes. 01590 626264 / 07850 220500

Please make your booking on the Probus Website, by the end of August please

Pay Lentune Probus Ladies by BACS.  Sort code 53-81-22   A/C no.83510591

Total cost £22.30 or £12.30 if Art Fund member ( Bring your card).