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cowper memorial museum

The charity supports children and young people, elderly people, other charities or voluntary bodies, other defined groups, and the general public. Cowper Memorial Museum is a registered charity whose purpose is education and training. It delivers its work by providing human resources. The charity is based in Olney and operates in Milton Keynes.


This page summarises publicly available information about the charity, including its activities, beneficiaries, and registration details, based on official records.

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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.

Fundraising

See where Cowper Memorial Museum is active and find local fundraising opportunities.

Local Authority

Financial Information

Latest Income
£117,113
Latest Expenditure
£120,520

Financial Efficiency

Overall Efficiency 102.9%
% of expenditure going to programs (vs overhead)
Expenditure Ratio 102.9%
Expenditure as % of income

Financial Trend

Annual Returns

Financial YearIncomeExpenditureCharitable SpendingNet AssetsReservesStaff
2025£117,113£120,5200 / 150
2024£172,144£223,0160 / 100
2023£184,867£138,2230 / 100
2022£73,720£53,8350 / 100
2021£83,796£59,0630 / 100

Staff column shows: Employees / Volunteers