19 February 2024: Exciting News!

We are delighted to announce that the Ilkley Manor House Trust has secured official Museum Accreditation for Ilkley Manor House, five years after taking back control of the House from Bradford Council.

The Trust gained control over running Ilkley Manor House in April 2018 and has since, as you know, 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.

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.

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.”