The Cowper and Newton Museum occupies a Georgian townhouse in the heart of Olney, a market town roughly ten miles north of Milton Keynes. The building itself is where William Cowper, the 18th-century poet, lived during his most productive years, and where he developed his close friendship and creative partnership with John Newton, the hymn writer and clergyman. Both men left indelible marks on English literature and religious verse – Cowper’s satirical works and personal correspondence remain widely read, whilst Newton’s hymns, including ‘Amazing Grace’, continue to be sung in churches worldwide.
Visitors can explore the rooms where Cowper worked, see original manuscripts, letters, and personal effects that illuminate the lives of these two remarkable figures. The museum preserves period furnishings and artefacts that capture the atmosphere of late Georgian domestic life. A small garden offers respite, and the museum shop stocks books, cards and gifts related to the collection. The site attracts scholars, students of Romantic-era literature, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith and artistic expression during this formative period in English cultural history. Entry is by modest admission charge, and opening hours are displayed on the museum’s website.