Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein, Bath
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley and Frankenstein in this immersive museum experience in the heart of historic Bath.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein in Bath is a unique, immersive museum dedicated to the life of Mary Shelley and her groundbreaking novel, Frankenstein. Set in a historic Grade II listed Georgian building, the attraction features multi-sensory exhibits, interactive displays, and a life-sized recreation of Frankenstein’s monster. Visitors can explore four atmospheric floors including a spooky basement experience and enjoy an escape room challenge, all celebrating gothic literature and scientific imagination.
A brief summary to Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein
- 37 Gay St, Bath, BA1 2NT, GB
- +441225551542
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry and benefit from discounted prices.
- Allow at least one hour to fully explore the museum and additional time if you want to try the Escape Room.
- Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult; the basement and Escape Rooms may not be suitable for young or sensitive children.
- Visit on weekday afternoons for fewer crowds and a more immersive experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Train
From Bath Spa train station, it’s about a 10 to 15-minute walk to Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein, crossing mostly flat urban terrain. The station is well connected to major UK cities. No direct parking at the attraction; walking from the station is recommended.
-
Bus
Several local bus routes stop near the city centre of Bath, within a 5 to 10-minute walk of the attraction. Bus services run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing approximately £2-£4 depending on the route.
-
Car
Public car parks such as Charlotte Street and SouthGate Shopping Centre are available within a 5 to 10-minute walk. Expect parking fees around £2-£4 per hour with a minimum stay of 4 hours. Bath operates a Clean Air Zone, so check your vehicle’s compliance to avoid charges.
-
Walking
If staying in central Bath, the attraction is accessible on foot via flat, paved streets. Walking times from major landmarks like Bath Abbey are approximately 8 to 10 minutes, making it an easy and pleasant stroll.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein
A Literary Landmark in Georgian Bath
Nestled in the heart of Bath at 37 Gay Street, Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein occupies a charming Grade II listed Georgian townhouse. This historic city, known for its elegant architecture and Roman heritage, was where Mary Shelley penned much of her iconic novel Frankenstein in 1816. The building itself, with its period features and central location, provides an authentic backdrop that connects visitors directly to the author’s world and the early 19th-century setting that inspired her work.An Immersive Journey into Gothic Imagination
This attraction is not a traditional museum but a multi-sensory experience that blurs the lines between history, literature, and theatrical storytelling. Spanning four floors, visitors encounter immersive environments that reveal Mary Shelley’s life story, the cultural context of her writing, and the enduring legacy of Frankenstein. Highlights include a foreboding basement designed to evoke the novel’s darker themes, interactive exhibits that engage all senses, and a meticulously crafted 8-foot-tall Creature brought to life exactly as Mary imagined.Exploring Mary Shelley’s Tragic and Brilliant Life
The exhibition delves into Mary Shelley’s personal history, including her youth, family background, and the tragic events that shaped her writing. Through a combination of vintage artefacts, detailed plaques, and multimedia storytelling, visitors gain insight into her creative process and the scientific and philosophical ideas that influenced Frankenstein. The experience also touches on the novel’s impact on popular culture and its place as the world’s first science fiction novel.Interactive and Engaging Activities
Beyond the exhibits, the House of Frankenstein offers an Escape Room experience with two themed games: The Body In A Suitcase and The Gift. These puzzle-based challenges are suitable for groups and provide a thrilling way to engage with the story’s mystery and suspense. The attraction encourages visitors to spend around one hour exploring the museum, with additional time if participating in the Escape Room.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The atmosphere is gothic and immersive, enhanced by darkened rooms, ominous audio effects, and carefully curated lighting that evoke the eerie mood of the novel. The staff are known to be friendly and helpful, contributing to a welcoming yet thrilling environment. The attraction is family-friendly for older children (12+), though the basement and Escape Rooms contain intense sensory effects that may not suit younger or sensitive visitors.Location and Accessibility
Situated just a short walk from Bath city centre landmarks such as Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths, the House of Frankenstein is easily accessible on foot, by bus, or from Bath Spa train station. While there is no dedicated parking, several public car parks are nearby. Bath’s Clean Air Zone may require a daily charge for certain vehicles. The attraction operates daily with varying hours, generally opening from 11am to 5pm or 5:30pm depending on the day.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.2 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
The Royal Crescent
0.4 km
Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
Green Park Station
0.4 km
Historic railway station turned vibrant market hub offering fresh local produce, unique crafts, lively eateries, and cultural events in Bath.
The Pump Room Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
The EASTGATE
0.4 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Archway
0.5 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
In and Beyond Bath
0.5 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Bath with personalized tours from In and Beyond Bath, your expert local travel guide.
Royal Cres
0.5 km
Experience Bath’s Royal Crescent, a stunning Georgian crescent with iconic Ionic columns, historic charm, and sweeping parkland views.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.5 km
Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
0.5 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Chapel Arts Centre
0.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Royal Victoria Park Bath
0.6 km
Explore the lush landscapes and historical charm of Royal Victoria Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Bath.
Monks Mill
0.6 km
Discover Monks Mill, a rare medieval watermill ruin nestled in Bath’s picturesque Parade Gardens, echoing centuries of monastic industry and wool trade heritage.
Henrietta Park
0.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Henrietta Park in Bath, a serene escape filled with beautiful gardens and lush greenery perfect for relaxation.
Marlborough Buildings
0.6 km
Georgian elegance in a Grade II listed terrace, where Bath's architectural ambition meets refined 18th-century townhouse design.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Jane Austen Centre
0.0 km
Step into Regency Bath and explore the life, legacy, and world of Jane Austen at this immersive Georgian townhouse museum and tea room.
Milsom St
0.1 km
Elegant Georgian street in Bath famed for upscale shopping, vibrant dining, and lively courtyards at Milsom Place.
Beauford Square
0.1 km
A tranquil Georgian square in Bath blending historic charm with architectural resilience and social history.
Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution
0.1 km
A historic Georgian venue in Bath inspiring minds with science, literature, and art for over 200 years.
The Raven
0.1 km
A cozy multi-floor Bath pub famed for unique pies, local ales, and a warm, friendly atmosphere steeped in British tradition.
Georgian Garden
0.2 km
Step into Bath’s Georgian Garden, a serene, historically restored 18th-century town garden nestled between iconic Georgian landmarks.
Antiques in Bath
0.2 km
Explore Bath’s largest antiques centre with over fifty expert dealers offering fine art, jewellery, vintage collectibles, and timeless treasures.
Bartlett Street Antiques Centre
0.2 km
Discover over fifty dealers’ treasures in Bath’s largest antiques centre, where history and craftsmanship meet in a vibrant, historic setting.
The Circus - Bath
0.2 km
Discover The Circus, Bath’s iconic Georgian circle blending classical architecture, druidic symbolism, and Masonic mystery in a stunning urban masterpiece.
Bath Independent Shops
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s vibrant independent shops at Fountain Buildings, where craftsmanship meets Georgian charm in a unique shopping enclave.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.2 km
Step into the elegant world of Georgian Bath at the Assembly Rooms, a historic hub of dance, music, and society since 1771.
Fashion Museum Bath
0.2 km
Discover centuries of style and culture at Bath’s Fashion Museum, soon reopening in a stunning new city-centre home.
Theatre Royal, Bath
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s historic Theatre Royal, a stunning Georgian theatre blending rich heritage with vibrant contemporary performances.
The Museum of East Asian Art
0.2 km
Explore 7,000 years of East and Southeast Asian art in Bath’s unique Georgian townhouse museum.
Victoria Falls Adventure Golf
0.3 km
An enchanting 18-hole adventure golf course in Bath, blending scenic gardens and playful challenges for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Clayton's Kitchen
0.1 km
Modern British fine dining in a Georgian townhouse, where seasonal ingredients and refined technique create memorable meals.
Comptoir+Cuisine
0.1 km
A cozy French bistro in Bath serving refined tapas-style dishes with quirky charm and attentive service.
The Salamander - A Great British Pub.
0.1 km
Intimate Georgian pub serving locally sourced British classics and Bath Ales in Bath's historic city centre.
La Terra
0.1 km
Contemporary Italian fine dining rooted in family tradition, impeccable sourcing, and warm hospitality in Bath's city centre.
Ole Tapas
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre.
Boho Marché
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion cuisine in Bath’s eclectic Boho Marché, where bold flavors meet whimsical décor.
The Ivy Bath Brasserie & Garden
0.1 km
Sophisticated British dining with seasonal flair, elegant interiors, and a charming garden in the heart of historic Bath.
Corkage Bath
0.2 km
Award-winning wine bar and restaurant serving creative Mediterranean small plates in a charming Bath city-centre setting.
Pintxo de Bath
0.2 km
Authentic Basque tapas and sherry bar in Bath’s theatre district with a sunny garden and vibrant Spanish flavors.
Côte Bath
0.2 km
Stylish French brasserie in Bath’s historic Milsom Place, serving seasonal modern classics with vegan and gluten-free options in a charming courtyard setting.
Woods Restaurant
0.2 km
Family-run modern British bistro with French technique and locally sourced ingredients, opposite Bath's Assembly Rooms.
Raphael Restaurant
0.2 km
A relaxed, wine-focused restaurant in a Georgian townhouse, serving modern British dishes with seasonal, local ingredients in the heart of Bath.
Amarone Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and elegant ambiance in the heart of historic Bath at Amarone Restaurant.
Henry's Restaurant Bath
0.2 km
Intimate Georgian fine dining celebrating seasonal British cuisine with worldly influences and zero-waste principles.
The Circus Restaurant
0.3 km
Classic Georgian charm meets seasonal European cuisine in a warm, relaxed setting between Bath’s iconic Circus and Royal Crescent.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grace & Mabel Ltd
0.1 km
Discover timeless British and European fashion with a sustainable focus at Grace & Mabel, Bath’s family-run boutique gem.
Vinegar Hill
0.1 km
Discover quirky gifts and unique homewares in the heart of Bath’s historic Milsom Street at Vinegar Hill.
House of Fraser
0.1 km
Historic department store blending heritage and modern retail in the heart of Bath’s shopping district.
Fat Giraffe Gifts
0.1 km
Discover unique, handcrafted wooden gifts with a sustainable heart at Bath’s welcoming Fat Giraffe Gifts on Milsom Street.
Milsom Place
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Georgian shopping and dining oasis nestled within tranquil courtyards on fashionable Milsom Street.
BIBICO
0.2 km
Discover timeless, ethically made women’s fashion at BIBICO, Bath’s pioneering boutique for sustainable and artisan-crafted clothing.
Boho
0.2 km
Discover Boho, a stylish ladies' clothing boutique on Broad Street, Bath, blending bohemian flair with attentive service in a historic setting.
Always Sunday
0.2 km
A vibrant Bath boutique blending vintage charm, artisan homewares, and creative community spirit in a colorful, maximalist setting.
Jigsaw
0.2 km
Elegant ladies’ fashion and accessories boutique offering refined style and attentive service in the heart of Bath’s historic Old Bond Street.
Firefly Vintage Bath
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage gems and timeless style at Firefly Vintage Bath, a cozy boutique for curated vintage clothing in the heart of Bath.
Vintage Abs Bath
0.3 km
Discover authentic vintage clothing and accessories in Bath’s charming Upper Borough Walls at Vintage Abs, a haven for fashion lovers.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover playful Scandinavian design and affordable creative gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bath’s vibrant Union Street.
Anthropologie
0.3 km
Discover Anthropologie Bath: vibrant women's fashion and unique home décor in a stylish boutique at the heart of historic New Bond Street.
The Yellow Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique accessories in Bath’s creative Walcot Street at The Yellow Shop.
The Silver Shop Of Bath
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s longest-established silver jewellery shop, offering unique gifts and expert craftsmanship in a charming historic setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hall & Woodhouse Bath
0.1 km
Historic multi-floor pub and restaurant in Bath offering classic ales, diverse menu, and rooftop city views.
Circo - Cellar Bar
0.1 km
Discover Bath’s elegant cellar bar with a circular centerpiece, Michelin-starred cocktails, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
Bath Stag & Hen
0.1 km
Tailored stag and hen party planning in Bath’s historic George Street, blending vibrant nightlife with expert local service for unforgettable celebrations.
Slug & Lettuce - Bath
0.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and British restaurant in Bath with stylish interiors, a secluded garden, and celebrated bottomless brunch experiences.
Revolution Bath
0.2 km
Lively cocktail bar in Bath’s city centre offering creative drinks, American-inspired eats, and vibrant nightlife until the early hours.
The Botanist Bath
0.2 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
Mandalyns Bath
0.2 km
Bath’s oldest gay bar, Mandalyns offers vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife with drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in historic Fountain Buildings.
The Old Green Tree
0.2 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Belushi's Bath
0.2 km
A lively sports bar and live music venue in Bath offering great food, cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere near the city’s historic heart.
Vino Vino
0.3 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
Coeur De Lion
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Grapes
0.3 km
A historic Bath pub blending traditional charm with lively music, craft ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city’s heart.
The Dark Horse
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s moody, intimate cocktail bar with inventive drinks, warm service, and a hidden underground charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sub 13
0.1 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Zero / Zero
0.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Komedia
0.3 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Lomah
0.3 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
0.7 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
The Tub
2.6 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
16.4 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
16.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
16.9 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Thekla
17.6 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Popworld - Bristol
17.9 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
17.9 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
17.9 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
PRYZM
17.9 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
