The Ilkley Manor House Trust, a community group formed by local residents with a shared passion for Ilkley Manor House, has secured official Museum Accreditation for the site, five years after taking back control of the House from Bradford Council.
Arts Council England’s Accreditation scheme is the benchmark for well-run Museums and Galleries, showing that they are managed and governed to the nationally-agreed industry standard, which ensures all museums are sustainable, focused and trusted.
The Trust gained control over running Ilkley Manor House in April 2018 and has since developed a thriving heritage and arts centre. The Board of Trustees, led by Jenna Holmes and Daisy Johnson, has been working tirelessly to secure official museum status, following the takeover.
“Though Ilkley Manor House has previously been known as a museum, the new Trust needed to show the Arts Council that we had all the necessary systems in place to continue running effectively to industry standards,” said Jenna Holmes.
Sarah Thomas, Chair of the Ilkley Manor House Trust, says, “The accreditation status will open up specific funding streams but will also allow us to explore the loan of artefacts from museums to enhance exhibitions we are holding in the future. This award also validates a lot of hard work by the trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters who have got us to this point.”
Emmie Kell, Director Museums and Cultural Property at Arts Council England said, "We’re delighted that Ilkley Manor House has been successful in gaining their Accreditation status. This means that their Collections will be looked after and maintained offering inspiration, enjoyment and learning for the local community and visitors to enjoy now and in the future.”
Ilkley Manor House reopens for spring on Saturday 24 February with a jam-packed programme of events and activities. To find out what’s on, visit: ilkleymanorhouse.org/spring-2024 or pick up a physical copy of the spring programme from the Ilkley Visitor Information Centre, local shops or from the outdoor leaflet holder located next to Ilkley Manor House’s front door.