Great Pulteney St, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4DB

The Holburne Museum


The Holburne Museum is located in Sydney Pleasure Gardens, Bath, Somerset, England. The city's first public art gallery, the Grade I listed building, is home to fine and decorative arts built around the collection of Sir William Holburne.

Location

About



The Holburne Museum is an art gallery located in the beautiful city of Bath, England. It is situated at the end of Great Pulteney Street, one of the grandest streets in the city. The museum has a unique collection of art, ranging from Renaissance pieces to contemporary works. It is a must-visit attraction for tourists who are interested in art and culture.

The museum was founded in 1882 and is named after Sir William Holburne, a wealthy collector of art. The museum is housed in a stunning Georgian building, which was designed by Charles Harcourt Masters. The building is a work of art in itself and is surrounded by beautiful gardens that offer a tranquil and serene environment for visitors.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of paintings, which includes works by Gainsborough, Stubbs, and Turner. The museum has an impressive collection of ceramics, silver, and glassware, as well as a collection of Renaissance bronzes. There is also a display of 18th-century furniture and a collection of porcelain from China and Europe.

The Holburne Museum also has a special collection of paintings by Thomas Gainsborough, who was a prominent artist in the 18th century. The collection includes several portraits of important figures from that time, including King George III and his family.

Apart from the permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, which are always worth visiting. These exhibitions showcase contemporary art and are a great way to see new and exciting works from around the world.

The museum offers guided tours and audio guides for visitors who want to learn more about the art and history of the collections. There are also regular workshops and events for adults and children, which include drawing and painting classes, lectures, and concerts.

The museum has a lovely café that serves delicious food and drinks. The café is situated in the museum's garden and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The museum shop sells a variety of art books, gifts, and souvenirs.

In conclusion, The Holburne Museum is an excellent destination for tourists who are interested in art and culture. It offers a unique and fascinating collection of art that spans several centuries, and the building and gardens are a work of art in themselves. The museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Bath and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Gallery

Things to do nearby

The Holburne Museum, located in Bath, England, is a popular tourist destination for those who are interested in art and history. While the museum itself is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon, there are many other attractions and activities in the surrounding area that are worth exploring. In this article, we will explore some of the best places and things to do nearby The Holburne Museum from a tourist perspective.

1. The Roman Baths: The Roman Baths is a historic site that dates back to Roman times. It is located just a short walk from The Holburne Museum, and it is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Bath. The site includes the remains of the ancient Roman baths, as well as a museum that provides an in-depth look at the history of the site.

2. The Royal Crescent: The Royal Crescent is a row of 30 terraced houses that were built in the 18th century. The Crescent is located just a short distance from The Holburne Museum, and it is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the interior of one of the houses, which has been restored to its original condition.

3. Pulteney Bridge: Pulteney Bridge is a historic bridge that spans the River Avon. The bridge was completed in 1774, and it is one of only four bridges in the world that has shops on both sides. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge, and enjoy the view of the river and the surrounding architecture.

4. Bath Abbey: Bath Abbey is a beautiful medieval church that is located in the heart of Bath. The church dates back to the 7th century, and it is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church, and learn about its history and significance.

5. The Jane Austen Centre: The Jane Austen Centre is a museum that is dedicated to the life and works of the famous author, Jane Austen. The museum is located just a short distance from The Holburne Museum, and it provides an in-depth look at Austen's life and the social context of her novels.

6. The Thermae Bath Spa: The Thermae Bath Spa is a modern spa complex that is located in the heart of Bath. The spa features a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city, as well as a range of treatments and therapies. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the spa, and take advantage of the healing properties of the thermal waters.

7. Victoria Art Gallery: The Victoria Art Gallery is a public art gallery that is located just a short distance from The Holburne Museum. The gallery features a wide range of art from the 15th century to the present day, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gallery, or explore the collection on their own.

In conclusion, The Holburne Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone who is interested in art and history. However, there are many other attractions and activities in the surrounding area that are worth exploring. From historic sites to modern spas, Bath has something to offer everyone. Whether you are visiting for a day or a week, be sure to explore everything that this beautiful city has to offer.

Opening Hours

Saturday 10 am–5 pm
Sunday 11 am–5 pm
Monday 10 am–5 pm
Tuesday 10 am–5 pm
Wednesday 10 am–5 pm
Thursday 10 am–5 pm
Friday 10 am–5 pm

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