Cowper Memorial Museum
Also known as: Cowper and Newton Museum - Home of Olneys Heritage
The museum commemorates the poet William Cowper, who lived in the house from 1768 to 1786, and his friend the preacher, hymnwriter and slave trade abolitionist John Newton (author of 'Amazing Grace'). It holds an important collection of lace and items relating to the archaeology and history of Olney and its surrounding villages. The historic gardens include Cowper's original summer house/study.
Activities & Mission
The museum commemorates the poet William Cowper, who lived in the house from 1768 to 1786, and his friend the preacher, hymnwriter and slave trade abolitionist John Newton (author of 'Amazing Grace'). It holds an important collection of lace and items relating to the archaeology and history of Olney and its surrounding villages. The historic gardens include Cowper's original summer house/study.
Areas of Operation
Where this charity is registered to operate, as self-declared to the Charity Commission. These are regulatory classifications, not a list of active programmes, and don't necessarily indicate fundraising activity in each location.
Local Authority
Financial Information
Financial Efficiency
Financial Trend
Annual Returns
As filed with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Most recent filing covers the financial year ending 2025.
One or more years show a significant change in income (over ±100%) compared with the prior year. This usually reflects a merger, transfer of activities, restated accounts, or a one-off legacy — not necessarily a real change in operating scale. See the methodology for context.
| Financial Year | Income | Expenditure | Charitable Spending | Net Assets | Reserves | Staff |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | £117,113 | £120,520 | 0 / 150 | |||
| 2024 | £172,144 | £223,016 | 0 / 100 | |||
| 2023 | £184,867 | £138,223 | 0 / 100 | |||
| 2022 | £73,720 | £53,835 | 0 / 100 | |||
| 2021 | £83,796 | £59,063 | 0 / 100 |
Staff column shows: Employees / Volunteers
Frequently asked questions about Cowper Memorial Museum
What does Cowper Memorial Museum do?
The museum commemorates the poet William Cowper, who lived in the house from 1768 to 1786, and his friend the preacher, hymnwriter and slave trade abolitionist John Newton (author of 'Amazing Grace'). It holds an important collection of lace and items relating to the archaeology and history of Olney and its surrounding villages. The historic gardens include Cowper's original summer house/study.
How much income did Cowper Memorial Museum report in 2025?
Cowper Memorial Museum reported total income of £117k and reported expenditure of £121k for the financial year ending 2025, based on the most recent annual return filed with the Charity Commission.
When was Cowper Memorial Museum registered as a charity?
Cowper Memorial Museum was registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales on 3 July 1962 as charity number 310521. It has been registered for 64 years.
Who runs Cowper Memorial Museum?
Cowper Memorial Museum is governed by a board of 9 trustees. The chair of trustees is TOM JONES. Trustees are legally responsible for the charity's governance and are listed in full on its profile.
Where does Cowper Memorial Museum operate?
Cowper Memorial Museum operates in Milton Keynes, as recorded in its Charity Commission filing.
Is Cowper Memorial Museum a registered charity?
Yes — Cowper Memorial Museum is a registered charity in England and Wales, charity number 310521.
Details
EMBERTON
OLNEY
MK46 5JA
Registry Information
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Trustees
Also governs 2 other charities
Sectors & Classifications
Also Known As
- Cowper and Newton Museum - Home of Olneys Heritage
Data & trust
- Register data refreshed
- 14 May 2026
- Methodology
- How metrics are calculated