13 March - 3 November 2024 | 10am - 5pm | Chesters Roman Fort, Chollerford NE46 4EU
See an extraordinary 18th century shell collection on display at Chesters Roman Fort. The internationally important collection was believed lost for more than 40 years, but was returned to English Heritage after being saved from a skip. The collection was the lifelong passion of Bridget Atkinson (1732-1814).
Despite never leaving Britain and rarely leaving Cumbria, Atkinson had far-reaching connections and amassed more than 1,200 shells from across the globe. There are many spectacular shells in Bridget’s collection, including an extinct species and several shells believed to have been sent back from Captain Cook’s ill-fated third voyage.
In the exhibition, you can see the chambered nautilus (Nautilus pompilius), which was one of the most coveted of natural history items for collectors.
The exhibition runs until 3 November and is included in the admission price. Book online and save 15%.
T: 01434 681379
E: [email protected]
W: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/chesters-roman-fort-and-museum-hadrians-wall/shells-shores-and-beyond-a-global-collection-of-a-georgian-lady