Cliffe Castle Exhibitions
Permanent displays include the spectacular Reception Rooms, furnished with some of the original contents, including magnificent chandeliers and a monumental French clock topped by a bronze statue.
'Airedale: the Formation and Life of a Valley' explains how the local area was formed by powerful natural forces. 'Working Landscapes' considers the many ways in which our ancestors have shaped and exploited their surroundings since the arrival of the first farmers, 6,000 years ago. The Natural History Gallery displays preserved examples of many of the animals that live in the District (all recent specimens are prepared by our resident taxidermist from accidentally killed animals - car, window and cat casualties are often brought in by members of the public). 'Molecules to Minerals', a glittering array of colourful crystals and polished stone slabs, explains what minerals are and how they formed - find out how to tell real gold from fool's gold.
The Bygones Galleries have now closed to get ready for our new Keighley Stories Gallery. Behind the scenes the conservation and curatorial teams are finding the ideal objects for the displays and getting them into tip top condition. The Head of the Keighley Ox, amazing Trench art from World war one and a spectacular Victorian doll are just some of the hundreds of items that will go on display when the gallery opens Spring 2008.
In addition to the permanent displays, Cliffe Castle runs a broad programme of exhibitions.
Current and upcoming exhibitions
From March 15 2008
Keighley Stories
Visitors to Cliffe Castle can now see the newly completed Keighley Stories gallery and Breakfast Room. Telling the stories of Keighley and its people, the two displays are filled with exciting objects from the towns past. From two headed lambs to magic spells; and from a lavish dolls house to a wife taming cradle, there really is something for everyone. As part of the fun you can enjoy our Keighley Stories trail, an adventure of discovery through out the building.
6th May - 6th July 2008
Good Start 08
Fabulous art from the Aire Valley’s Sixth Forms. We present another wonderful opportunity to view some of the most varied and inspired works from the Aire Valleys up and coming artistic talent. "This exhibition inspires young people to aim high" - Visitor comment from Good Start 07.
Summer 2008
Keighley’s Summer Palace, China In Yorkshire
In summer 2008 Cliffe Castle will form an inspirational setting for Bradford’s Chinese collections. The objects can be discovered on a family trail, starting in the newly refurbished 1930’s Breakfast Room with exotic silk curtains newly woven in Hangzhou. Follow the journey through the downstairs galleries and discover fascinating and unusual objects hidden within the collections. British based Chinese artist Lisa Cheung will work as artist in residence. Her spectacular fountain will be on show in the Victorian Conservatory. A season of workshops and activities for schools, families and local community groups including; Chinese Calligraphy, Tai chi and dragon dancing, will celebrate Chinese Culture over the summer months.
The Yorkshire Hub events and activities have been funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council England, Yorkshire.
