What We Keep: The Art of Collecting
The Burton at Bideford
When: 11 May 2026 to 19 July 2026
Where: The Burton at Bideford, Kingsley Road, Bideford, Devon EX39 2QQ
Time: 10:00 - 16:00
Suitable for: Family friendly
This summer we celebrate the act of collecting in our new exhibition which reveals the hidden objects and stories found in front rooms, home museums and storage spaces across the South West of England.
Through an open call, The Burton at Bideford invited members of the public to share their own personal stories of collecting – asking them what they collect and if they would be willing to show it off to the world. From skateboards, handbags and rocking horses, to vintage toys, mudlarked bottles and vinyl records, discover a fascinating insight into what we keep, and why.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of The Burton and our long history of caring for collections of art, heritage and curiosities. ‘What We Keep’ is one of a series of projects exploring collections and collecting, a custom that is evident throughout human history from the Stone Age to the modern day.
Exhibitions & Projects
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The Art of Resurgence: Celebrating 60 Years of Resurgence
The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
23 May 2026 to 18 July 2026
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What We Keep: The Art of Collecting
The Burton at Bideford
11 May 2026 to 19 July 2026
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Colour
Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery
23 May 2026 to 06 September 2026
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Sir Alfred Munnings: Exmoor Through the Seasons
The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
04 July 2026 to 26 September 2026
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The Polish Navy in Devonport 1939 45
Devonport Naval Heritage Centre
15 May 2026 to 28 October 2026
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Six Weeks To Go
Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum
23 March 2026 to 30 October 2026
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Kingsbridge 1939 1945 : The Image and the Place
Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum
23 March 2026 to 30 October 2026
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William Cookworthy : A Man of No Common Clay
Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum
23 March 2026 to 30 October 2026
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History off the Hanger
Killerton House
14 February 2026 to 01 November 2026
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Stored Secrets
Castle Drogo
27 March 2026 to 01 November 2026
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100 Years of Marilyn
Bill Douglas Centre
29 May 2026 to 20 November 2026
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Insects Uncovered: Biodiversity in Newton Abbot Exhibition
Newton Abbot Museum
17 March 2026 to 01 March 2027
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Sherlock Holmes at Dartmoor Prison Museum
09 June 2026 to 30 April 2028



