Holburne Museum: Visit Baths First Art Museum

The Holburne Museum in Bath stands as the city’s premier art institution, housing an impressive collection that spans centuries. Established in 1882, this Georgian mansion invites visitors to explore its rich history and artistic treasures. From 16th and 17th-century Italian and Dutch paintings to works by renowned British artists like Gainsborough and Hockney, the museum blends the old and new. Nestled in the picturesque Sydney Pleasure Gardens, the Holburne offers an engaging cultural experience that’s sure to captivate art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With its diverse exhibitions and stunning setting, the museum beckons you to discover why it’s considered a must-visit destination.

Good To Know

• The Holburne Museum is Bath’s first art museum, established in 1882 with Sir William Holburne’s art collection housed in a Georgian mansion.
• The museum features a diverse collection of 16th and 17th-century Italian and Dutch paintings, including works by renowned artists like Gainsborough, Ramsay, and Stubbs.
• Alongside its historic holdings, the Holburne Museum hosts contemporary exhibitions, exploring connections between past and present artistic practices.
• Visitors can enjoy the museum’s accessible facilities, including a Garden Cafe, and explore the adjacent Sydney Pleasure Gardens for a well-rounded cultural experience.
• The museum’s dynamic exhibition program and world-class collection have earned it a reputation for exceptional service and a seamless blend of historical and contemporary art.

Museum’s Fascinating History

The Holburne Museum boasts a fascinating history, tracing its origins back to the legacy of Sir William Holburne. In 1882, the museum was established with Sir William’s impressive art collection, making it Bath’s first art museum.

The museum is housed in a striking Georgian mansion, known as Lady Danbury’s house from the hit TV series Bridgerton. Visitors can admire the museum’s diverse holdings, including 16th and 17th-century Italian and Dutch paintings, silver, sculpture, furniture, porcelain, and more.

Notable artists featured include Gainsborough, Lawrence, Ramsay, Stubbs, and Zoffany. The museum sits within the historic Sydney Pleasure Gardens, offering a beautiful setting for art lovers to explore.

Renowned Artistic Collections

Though established with Sir William Holburne’s impressive art collection, the Holburne Museum‘s renowned artistic holdings extend far beyond his initial bequest.

The museum’s diverse holdings feature 16th and 17th-century Italian and Dutch paintings, silver, sculpture, furniture, porcelain, and objets d’art. Notable artists represented include Gainsborough, Lawrence, Ramsay, Stubbs, and Zoffany.

Along With the permanent collection, the museum hosts a dynamic program of contemporary exhibitions, recently showcasing works by celebrated artists like Grayson Perry and David Hockney, as well as exhibitions exploring Tudor art and Renaissance marriage portraits.

The Holburne Museum aims to bridge the gap between past and present, connecting historic art with contemporary practices.

Contemporary Exhibition Highlights

Alongside its impressive permanent collection, the Holburne Museum boasts a dynamic program of contemporary exhibitions. Recent highlights have included captivating ceramics by renowned artist Grayson Perry and breathtaking drawings by the legendary David Hockney.

The museum’s exhibitions also explore historic subjects, such as the art of the Tudor era and Renaissance marriage portraits. Through these thought-provoking displays, the Holburne aims to connect the past with contemporary artistic practices, offering visitors a unique and enriching cultural experience.

Whether you’re interested in cutting-edge contemporary art or timeless masterpieces, the museum’s exhibitions promise to delight and inspire.

Visitor Planning and Reservations

Planning a visit to the Holburne Museum is straightforward. Admission starts at $14.71 per person, with the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Visitors can secure their booking through the "Reserve now & pay later" option, allowing them to reserve without upfront payment. The museum’s tickets are valid for one day, with flexible starting times.

Plus, the Holburne offers:

• Wheelchair accessibility for all visitors
• On-site Garden Cafe for refreshments
• Positive reviews from travelers across Europe
• Flexible reservation options to suit various needs

Accessibility and Amenities

The Holburne Museum is fully wheelchair accessible for all visitors. The museum also features an on-site Garden Cafe, offering refreshments and scenic views of the Sydney Gardens. The cafe menu provides a range of options to satisfy various tastes and dietary requirements.

Menu Item	Price
Coffee	£2.95
Tea	£2.75
Sandwich	£5.50
Cake	£3.25
Soup	£4.75

With its accessible facilities and on-site amenities, the Holburne Museum ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all guests, whether they are seeking a moment of respite or a quick refreshment during their exploration of the museum’s collections and exhibitions.

Customer Experiences and Reviews

Visitor reviews of the Holburne Museum paint a picture of a truly remarkable cultural experience. Guests consistently praise the museum’s stunning architecture, world-class collection, and exceptional service.

Many highlight the museum’s ability to seamlessly blend the past and present, with exhibitions that connect historical artworks to contemporary practices. Reviewers also appreciate the museum’s convenient location, accessibility, and on-site amenities like the Garden Cafe.

The Holburne Museum earns rave reviews from a diverse array of travelers, including:

• Couples seeking a romantic and enriching outing
• Families exploring Bath’s rich history and culture
• Solo visitors captivated by the museum’s remarkable holdings
• International travelers discovering Britain’s artistic treasures

Exploring the Sydney Pleasure Gardens

Nestled alongside the Holburne Museum, the scenic Sydney Pleasure Gardens offer visitors a delightful respite from the bustling city.

Established in the 18th century, these beautifully manicured gardens feature winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and an abundance of lush greenery. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admiring the stunning architecture and taking in the peaceful atmosphere.

The gardens also host various events and activities throughout the year, including live music performances and art installations, making them a vibrant cultural hub.

Whether you’re seeking a moment of relaxation or an opportunity to learn about the city’s history and arts, the Sydney Pleasure Gardens are a must-visit destination during your time at the Holburne Museum.

Connecting Past and Present Art

The Holburne Museum’s dynamic exhibition program aims to connect its rich collection of historical art with contemporary artistic practices.

By showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions, the museum bridges the gap between the past and present, inviting visitors to explore new perspectives.

Recent highlights include:

• Ceramics by acclaimed artist Grayson Perry, offering a modern twist on traditional craftsmanship.
• Drawings by David Hockney, reinterpreting classical subjects through a contemporary lens.
• Exhibitions exploring Tudor art and Renaissance marriage portraits, shedding light on historical narratives.
• Programs that encourage visitors to engage with the collection in innovative ways, sparking new dialogues between old and new.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Museum?

Yes, visitors can take photos throughout the museum, except in certain restricted areas. Photography is generally allowed, but flash and tripods may be prohibited to preserve the artwork and ensure other visitors’ enjoyment.

Are Guided Tours Available?

The Holburne Museum offers guided tours for visitors. Docents provide in-depth insights into the museum’s collections and exhibitions, enhancing the visitor experience. Reservations are recommended to secure a spot on these popular tours.

Is There a Cloakroom or Luggage Storage?

Yes, the Holburne Museum offers a cloakroom and luggage storage for visitors. This allows guests to comfortably explore the museum’s collections and exhibitions without carrying heavy items.

Do You Offer Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The Holburne Museum offers discounted admission for students and seniors. Adults pay $14.71, while students and seniors receive a 10% discount. Visitors can save by purchasing tickets online in advance.

Is the Museum Pet-Friendly?

The Holburne Museum is not pet-friendly. Visitors are not permitted to bring pets inside the museum, with the exception of service animals that provide assistance to individuals with disabilities.

Sum Up

The Holburne Museum offers a captivating blend of historical and contemporary art, inviting visitors to enjoy Bath’s rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the picturesque Sydney Pleasure Gardens, the museum’s impressive collections and engaging exhibitions make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Whether exploring the museum’s past or discovering its present, the Holburne provides an enriching cultural experience that seamlessly connects the art of yesterday and today.