What We Keep: The Art of Collecting

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 75^th 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.