Arts Scholars and their guests are invited to attend the installation ceremony of Master Elect, Graham Barker DL, as the sixteenth Master Arts Scholar. It will also be the first occasion at which the Company's new Apollo Mace will be processed. Commissioned by Graham and Joanna Barker, and designed by goldsmith Kevin Coates, it incorporates representations of Apollo, the Muses, and the Harmony of the Spheres, and is a wonder to behold!

An evening to listen to some Midsummer evening jazz from Kenny Martin and the All Star Lots at The Deck at the National Theatre. The party will launch the Arts Scholars Gala Auction to be held in the Autumn. Tickets include drinks and canapés.

Down House, the historic home of the Darwin family, is a site of internationally important scientific significance. It was here that Charles Darwin undertook much of the research and experimentation that underpinned his scientific thinking, following his return after three years voyaging round the world on HMS Beagle. Much of what he saw then can still be seen and understood by visitors to Down House today.

The day will include a garden tour and a house tour. Lunch, which is not included, can be bought at the Down House café.

Exclusively tailored for the Arts Scholars, this four-day tour includes the principal historic sites and highlights of the main art collections in and around the City of Durham. Several private tours, with our own guides, are included.