Bushey Museum and Art Gallery has been officially named a VisitEngland ‘Hidden Gem’, a coveted accolade celebrating outstanding, lesser-known visitor attractions across the country.
Tucked in the heart of Bushey, the museum has long been a quiet treasure for lovers of art, culture and local history. Founded in 1993 to protect and promote Bushey’s remarkable artistic heritage, the museum today houses Hertfordshire’s largest public art collection, spanning the 19th and 20th centuries.
Among its highlights is the nationally significant collection dedicated to Sir Hubert von Herkomer RA and his world-renowned Art School, which once drew students from across the globe. Visitors can also explore the Lucy Kemp-Welch Memorial Trust Collection—featuring her acclaimed equine paintings—as well as works from the celebrated Monro Circle of artists. Further archives and materials from Bushey’s historic art schools are preserved within the museum’s Local Studies Centre.
The VisitEngland assessment, conducted early this year, examined every element of the visitor experience—from arrival and ambience to exhibitions, facilities, staff engagement and overall atmosphere. Accolade nominations are based on assessor observations, assessment scores and both direct and online visitor feedback.
Councillor Chris Myers, Portfolio Holder for Street Scene, Parks, Leisure and Culture, praised the achievement: “Securing this accolade is testament to the continuous high standard of the museum, which is run by a group of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, alongside our hardworking museum’s officer and wider team at the council.
“The museum is such a friendly and welcoming place, with excellent collections and displays of Bushey’s history, all of which have been recognised by VisitEngland. An important part of the award is recognising attractions which go the extra mile to create an enjoyable and memorable visitor experience, which is certainly true of Bushey Museum and Art Gallery.”
Audrey Adams, Chair of Bushey Museum and Art Gallery, said: "Only 12 attractions of various types from all around the country were deemed worthy of being named 'Hidden Gems', so this is quite an achievement, especially as we are volunteer-run while most of the others have professional management. It's a great tribute to the considerable efforts of all our volunteers and helpers, and everyone should be very proud."
Alongside its permanent displays, the museum offers regularly changing exhibitions and a charming shop—inviting visitors of all ages to rediscover the artistic legacy that makes Bushey truly unique.
The winners of the awards were presented at a celebratory lunch at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire on Wednesday (12 November).
Bushey Museum and Art Gallery remains free to enter and is open Thursday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm.