The Life of Mary Eleanor Bowes talk at Gibside
Join us for an illustrated talk by author Val Scully about the life of Mary Eleanor Bowes.
When Mary Eleanor inherited the Gibside estate in 1760, she was widely considered to be the wealthiest heiress in Georgian England. Her life was surrounded by fascination, rumour, and scandal. Val Scully offers us a compelling retelling of Mary Eleanor’s life: scholar, botanist, pioneer, and survivor. Her courageous fight for freedom from her husband paved the way for the reform of English divorce and custody laws. Her story of resilience is as relevant today as it was 300 years ago.
Free (booking advised as there is limited capacity). This talk contains references to violence and domestic abuse.
Please note:
- Normal admission charges apply to non-members on arrival.
- Head up to Gibside Stables. Across the courtyard is the cinema room where the talk will take place.
- The Stables are old buildings and can be cold, even in mild weather. Please wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather conditions.
- The Cinema Room is wheelchair accessible. Please be aware that the path up to the Stables includes a steep ascent and uneven ground. The Gibside shuttle bus may be available on the day. Please ask at Visitor Reception.
- Designed for adults, children welcome. Parental discretion advised.
- It will take 30 minutes from the car park to walk to Gibside Stables. Please allow enough time to arrive 5-10 minutes before the talk begins to avoid disruption.
- Book in advance. If space allows, walk-ins will be welcomed.
- Val Scully is a popular scholar. We recommend booking to avoid disappointment. There will be seats for everyone however they are not allocated. Standing places are not available.
Ticket options
Join us for an illustrated talk by author Val Scully about the life of Mary Eleanor Bowes.
When Mary Eleanor inherited the Gibside estate in 1760, she was widely considered to be the wealthiest heiress in Georgian England. Her life was surrounded by fascination, rumour, and scandal. Val Scully offers us a compelling retelling of Mary Eleanor’s life: scholar, botanist, pioneer, and survivor. Her courageous fight for freedom from her husband paved the way for the reform of English divorce and custody laws. Her story of resilience is as relevant today as it was 300 years ago.
Free (booking advised as there is limited capacity). This talk contains references to violence and domestic abuse.
Please note:
- Normal admission charges apply to non-members on arrival.
- Head up to Gibside Stables. Across the courtyard is the cinema room where the talk will take place.
- The Stables are old buildings and can be cold, even in mild weather. Please wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather conditions.
- The Cinema Room is wheelchair accessible. Please be aware that the path up to the Stables includes a steep ascent and uneven ground. The Gibside shuttle bus may be available on the day. Please ask at Visitor Reception.
- Designed for adults, children welcome. Parental discretion advised.
- It will take 30 minutes from the car park to walk to Gibside Stables. Please allow enough time to arrive 5-10 minutes before the talk begins to avoid disruption.
- Book in advance. If space allows, walk-ins will be welcomed.
- Val Scully is a popular scholar. We recommend booking to avoid disappointment. There will be seats for everyone however they are not allocated. Standing places are not available.
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