Olney & District Historical Society (ODHS) was founded in 1997 by a group of like-minded people determined to keep Olney history alive for all generations of people in the town and for those who have since moved away. The Society closed at the end of 2019 and terminated its visits to
William Cowper and John Newton are the most famous residents of Olney, but William Legge, the 2nd Earl of Dartmouth, is probably the most significant non-resident figure in Olney history.. In 1755 he married Frances Nicholls daughter to Charles Gunter (or Gounter) Nicholls, who had been MP for Peterborough. The
Take a peek inside Orchard Side House as we begin to unveil some of our hidden secrets. Visit the ‘Welcome’ page for a short guide to the other delights we have in store for you during your visit.
Amazing Grace & The Olney Hymns ‘to my dear friends in the parish and neighbourhood of Olney, for whose use the hymns were originally composed;…’ Did you know? ‘Amazing Grace’ was penned by the Rev John Newton during his time here in Olney. ‘Amazing Grace’ was originally titled ‘Faith’s Review and Expectations’ . It was published by John in
The Three Hares Gallery is located on the top floor of the Museum building and holds monthly exhibitions. Previous exhibitions have included artists who work in watercolours, acrylics, oils, pastels, drawings, prints, photography, ceramics, woodcraft and textiles, including felt, patchwork and tapestries. Sadly, due to Coronavirus safety measures, the Gallery is currently only open to
Visit our tranquil & historic Gardens. William Cowper was an innovative gardener at a time when seeds & plants were arriving from North America. Find out more here, including a plan of the gardens.
All eyes are set to be on Olney in 2023, when the town will be at the centre of commemorations to mark the 250th anniversary of one of the world’s most beloved hymns, ‘Amazing Grace’.
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Museum and Gardens - £7.50 (includes an annual pass)
Gardens only - £3.50
Children under 16 - FREE
Hours: 11.00 - 3.00 (last entry 2.15)
Days: Wednesday and Saturday
Closing on December 16th 2020
Reopening February 2021
Our Museum building remains CLOSED. We are opening our gardens on limited entry. The Cowper & Newton Museum gardens will be open to welcome you on Wednesday 5th August 10.30 – 12.15 and Saturday 8th August 10.30 – 12.15
(Follow our social media accounts or check back here for further opening days & times as they become available)