The Holburne Museum
Neoclassical art museum housing Renaissance treasures and British masterpieces in Bath's most elegant Georgian building.
Housed in a Grade I listed neoclassical building designed by Thomas Baldwin in 1794, the Holburne Museum showcases an exceptional collection of fine and decorative art spanning from Renaissance treasures to contemporary works. Located at the end of Great Pulteney Street overlooking Sydney Gardens, this intimate art museum features paintings by Gainsborough, Stubbs, Ramsay, and Zoffany, alongside decorative arts including porcelain and silver. The museum combines its permanent collection with rotating temporary exhibitions, lectures, and creative workshops, offering visitors a refined cultural experience in one of Bath's most architecturally distinguished settings.
A brief summary to The Holburne Museum
- Great Pulteney St, Bath, Bathwick, BA2 4DB, GB
- +441225388569
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- 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
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesday afternoons between 3–5 PM for free admission to the permanent collection, or on the last Friday of the month from 5–9 PM for free evening access.
- Allow time to explore Sydney Gardens after your museum visit; admission is included with your ticket and provides a peaceful complement to the indoor galleries.
- The café offers excellent views over the gardens and is an ideal spot to pause and reflect on the artworks you've seen.
- Check the temporary exhibitions schedule before visiting; the rotating shows often feature thematic connections to the permanent collection that enhance your understanding of the works on display.
- The shop stocks exhibition catalogues and art books that provide deeper context for the collections; purchases support the museum's educational mission.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the city center and stop near Great Pulteney Street. Journey times from Bath city center are typically 5–10 minutes depending on your starting point. Buses run regularly throughout the day with reduced frequency on Sundays. Single fares cost approximately £1.50–£2.50; day passes offer better value for multiple journeys.
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Walking
From Bath city center (near the Abbey or Royal Crescent), the museum is a pleasant 15–20 minute walk downhill through Georgian streets. The route is well-signposted and passes through some of Bath's most attractive neighborhoods. The final approach along Great Pulteney Street is particularly scenic. The terrain is paved and accessible, though some sections include gentle slopes.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services are readily available throughout Bath. Journey times from the city center are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £8–£15. Drop-off is convenient at the museum entrance on Great Pulteney Street.
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Parking
Limited on-street parking is available on Great Pulteney Street and nearby roads, though spaces are often occupied during peak hours. Several paid car parks operate within 5–10 minutes' walk, including the Charlotte Street car park and Broad Street car park, with typical rates of £1.50–£2.50 per hour. Parking is generally easier on weekday mornings and Sundays.
The Holburne Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Holburne Museum
A Neoclassical Masterpiece in Bath's Georgian Landscape
The Holburne Museum occupies a building that is itself a work of art. Originally constructed as the Sydney Hotel in 1794, this Grade I listed neoclassical structure was designed by architect Thomas Baldwin during Bath's golden age as a fashionable spa city. The building's grand façade and commanding position at the end of Great Pulteney Street create an impressive approach that immediately signals the cultural significance of what lies within. The museum's location overlooking the picturesque Sydney Gardens adds to its appeal, offering visitors a serene setting that complements the refined nature of the collections on display.The Vision of Sir William Holburne and His Legacy
The museum was established to house the personal art collection of Sir William Holburne, a naval officer and passionate art collector whose discerning eye assembled works of exceptional quality and historical importance. This private collection forms the foundation of the museum's permanent holdings, which have been carefully preserved and expanded over the decades. The museum's mission to make art accessible and transformative—encapsulated in its slogan "Changing Lives Through Art"—reflects a commitment to ensuring that Holburne's legacy continues to inspire and enrich visitors from all backgrounds.Treasures from the Golden Age of British Painting
The top floor galleries house an outstanding collection of works from the Golden Age of British painting, a period when Bath itself was a thriving artistic center. The museum features significant paintings by Thomas Gainsborough and William Hoare, both of whom lived and worked in Bath during this flourishing era. Their canvases hang alongside masterpieces by Allan Ramsay, George Stubbs, and Johann Zoffany, providing a comprehensive view of 18th-century British artistic achievement. These works not only represent the highest standards of portraiture and landscape painting but also serve as visual documents of Bath's history as a fashionable and culturally sophisticated destination.Decorative Arts and Renaissance Treasures
Beyond paintings, the Holburne's collection encompasses exceptional examples of decorative arts, including fine porcelain, silver, and other applied arts that showcase the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of their periods. Renaissance treasures sit alongside Georgian silver and ceramics, creating a rich dialogue between different eras and artistic traditions. These objects offer intimate glimpses into the lives and tastes of the collectors and patrons who commissioned them, revealing the material culture of the past through beautifully preserved examples.Contemporary Programming and Rotating Exhibitions
The museum's commitment to remaining a vital cultural institution is evident in its dynamic programming. Temporary exhibitions rotate throughout the year, ensuring that even regular visitors discover new perspectives and contemporary artistic voices. Recent and upcoming exhibitions have explored themes ranging from literary illustration to contemporary ceramics and photography. The museum also hosts lectures, creative workshops, and cultural events that extend the conversation beyond the gallery walls, fostering deeper engagement with art and creativity.A Complete Cultural Experience
The museum experience extends beyond the galleries themselves. A café overlooking Sydney Gardens provides a peaceful retreat for reflection, while the thoughtfully curated shop offers exhibition catalogues, art books, and carefully selected gifts that support the museum's mission. Free access to Sydney Gardens is included with museum admission, allowing visitors to extend their visit into the surrounding landscape. This holistic approach to the visitor experience reflects the museum's philosophy that art and creativity contribute to personal wellbeing and social enrichment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The EASTGATE
0.6 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Monks Mill
0.7 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.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.8 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
0.8 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
The Pump Room Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
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Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
Archway
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Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
Hetling Pump Room
0.9 km
Explore the Hetling Pump Room in Bath: A museum dedicated to the city's medical heritage and the legendary healing waters.
Thermae Bath Spa
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Discover the healing powers of natural thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa, a historic haven for relaxation and wellness in the heart of Bath.
Chapel Arts Centre
1.0 km
Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Westgate Buildings
1.0 km
Explore the enchanting Westgate Buildings in Bath, where Georgian architecture meets vibrant shops and delightful dining experiences.
Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution
1.0 km
Discover the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, where history, literature, and science come together in the heart of Bath.
Sham Castle
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Discover the enchanting Sham Castle in Bath, a perfect blend of historical charm and stunning natural scenery for every traveler.
SouthGate Bath
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Explore SouthGate Bath: A shopping haven blending modern retail with historic charm in the heart of Bath.
The Forum
1.0 km
Discover The Forum in Bath – a historic live music venue featuring diverse performances in a stunning architectural setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Geo Dome Structure
0.0 km
A stunning geodesic dome blending modern architecture with Bath’s historic charm and offering panoramic city views.
Sydney Gardens
0.1 km
Historic Georgian gardens in Bath offering scenic canal walks, heritage charm, sports facilities, and a peaceful urban retreat.
Henrietta Park
0.3 km
A historic and tranquil 7-acre park in Bath featuring champion trees, scented gardens, and a peaceful Garden of Remembrance.
The Recreation Ground
0.5 km
Historic riverside sports ground in Bath, home to Bath Rugby with vibrant matchday energy and scenic heritage surroundings.
Beazer Garden Maze
0.5 km
Discover Bath’s serene Beazer Garden Maze, a historic labyrinth blending art, nature, and heritage in a peaceful riverside setting.
Argyle St & Pulteney Bridge
0.5 km
An iconic Georgian crossroads where historic Argyle Street meets the architecturally unique Pulteney Bridge spanning the River Avon.
Bath Pavilion
0.5 km
A vibrant cultural and event venue in Bathwick, Bath, hosting concerts, weddings, and community celebrations in a flexible, atmospheric setting.
Bath Sports and Leisure Centre
0.6 km
A vibrant, fully refurbished leisure centre in Bath offering fitness, swimming, family fun, and wellness under one roof.
Pulteney weir
0.6 km
One of the world’s few bridges with shops on both sides, Pulteney Bridge is Bath’s stunning Georgian landmark blending history, commerce, and river views.
Pulteney Bridge
0.6 km
An elegant 18th-century Palladian bridge in Bath, uniquely lined with shops on both sides, spanning the River Avon with historic charm and vibrant commerce.
Grand Parade
0.6 km
Historic Georgian riverside promenade in Bath with stunning views, elegant gardens, and rich cultural heritage by the River Avon.
Prince Bladud and the Pig
0.6 km
Discover the legendary founder of Bath immortalized in stone alongside his healing pigs in the tranquil Parade Gardens.
North Parade Bridge
0.6 km
Historic cast iron bridge blending Georgian elegance and 19th-century engineering over Bath’s River Avon.
Bath City Parade Gardens
0.6 km
A historic riverside oasis in Bath’s city centre, famed for vibrant floral displays, stunning views, and lively summer concerts.
Victoria Art Gallery
0.6 km
Discover Bath’s rich artistic heritage at Victoria Art Gallery, home to British masterpieces and dynamic exhibitions in a stunning historic setting.
Essential places to dine
The Restaurant at The Bird
0.2 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
Ponte Vecchio
0.5 km
Bath’s finest Italian restaurant in a converted riverside boathouse, with stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.
The Herd Steak Restaurant
0.5 km
A cozy, family-run steakhouse in Bath famed for locally sourced, dry-aged beef and impeccable service in a unique basement setting.
Antica Bath Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the charming Bathwick neighborhood at Antica Bath Restaurant.
Bathwick Boatman Riverside
0.5 km
Charming riverside dining in Bath’s historic boathouse, serving fresh seasonal dishes with warm, family-run hospitality.
Chez Dominique
0.5 km
Intimate modern French bistro in Bath offering seasonal Anglo-French cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and warm, attentive service.
The Hive Bar & Kitchen
0.5 km
Bath's beloved neighbourhood restaurant, celebrated for its Sunday roast and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Bath
0.6 km
Experience authentic Caribbean jerk flavors and tropical vibes in the heart of historic Bath at Turtle Bay.
Joya Italian Steakhouse
0.6 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant Italian steakhouse where you grill your own premium hot stone steak in a lively riverside setting.
Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bath at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant.
Opa Bath
0.7 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
Browns Bath
0.7 km
Classic British brasserie dining in Bath’s historic Old Police Station with seasonal menus and handcrafted cocktails.
Hudson Steakhouse
0.7 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and Victorian charm in Bath’s beloved Hudson Steakhouse, where tradition meets refined dining.
La Perla
0.7 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Sotto Sotto
0.7 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Antique Map Shop
0.6 km
Discover rare antique maps and prints in a historic shop set on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge, blending history with timeless charm.
TILLIUS
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts in TILLIUS, a charming boutique nestled on Bath’s iconic Georgian Pulteney Bridge, blending history with distinctive finds.
Wadswick - Bath
0.6 km
Discover authentic British country lifestyle and designer clothing in a historic boutique on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge.
The Yellow Shop
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique accessories in Bath’s creative Walcot Street at The Yellow Shop.
The Bath Bazaar
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm in the heart of Bath’s historic Guild Hall at The Bath Bazaar.
A Nice Little Shop
0.6 km
Charming souvenir shop nestled in Bath’s historic Guildhall Market, offering authentic gifts in a vibrant, centuries-old marketplace.
Anthropologie
0.7 km
Discover Anthropologie Bath: vibrant women's fashion and unique home décor in a stylish boutique at the heart of historic New Bond Street.
Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs
0.7 km
Discover unique Bath-inspired gifts and souvenirs in a friendly, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of the historic city.
Wood & Burr
0.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and wooden puzzles at Wood & Burr, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Boho
0.7 km
Discover Boho, a stylish ladies' clothing boutique on Broad Street, Bath, blending bohemian flair with attentive service in a historic setting.
Always Sunday
0.7 km
A vibrant Bath boutique blending vintage charm, artisan homewares, and creative community spirit in a colorful, maximalist setting.
Vintage Abs Bath
0.7 km
Discover authentic vintage clothing and accessories in Bath’s charming Upper Borough Walls at Vintage Abs, a haven for fashion lovers.
Milsom Place
0.7 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Georgian shopping and dining oasis nestled within tranquil courtyards on fashionable Milsom Street.
Nām
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Discover unique art and scents in a cozy Bath boutique offering distinctive homewares to inspire your living space.
Firefly Vintage Bath
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage gems and timeless style at Firefly Vintage Bath, a cozy boutique for curated vintage clothing in the heart of Bath.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Henrietta Restaurant, Bar & Garden
0.4 km
Elegant dining and classic Afternoon Tea in a charming historic villa with a tranquil garden terrace in the heart of Bathwick.
Opium Bar
0.5 km
Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
Walcot House
0.6 km
A stylish fusion of historic charm, seasonal dining, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Bath’s Walcot Street.
Belushi's Bath
0.7 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.
The Old Green Tree
0.7 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Mandalyns Bath
0.7 km
Bath’s oldest gay bar, Mandalyns offers vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife with drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in historic Fountain Buildings.
Coeur De Lion
0.7 km
Discover Bath’s smallest pub, Coeur De Lion, where cozy charm meets local ales and simple, tasty fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Sleight Magic Bar
0.7 km
Discover Bath’s only magic bar, where captivating close-up illusions meet expertly crafted cocktails in a vaulted cellar setting.
All Bar One Bath
0.7 km
A stylish and spacious wine bar on Bath’s historic High Street, blending modern comfort with vibrant city energy.
Revolution Bath
0.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Bath’s city centre offering creative drinks, American-inspired eats, and vibrant nightlife until the early hours.
ArtBar
0.7 km
A stylish cocktail bar and art gallery in Bath’s historic Abbey Hotel, blending creative ambiance with refined drinks and local charm.
The Botanist Bath
0.8 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
Slug & Lettuce - Bath
0.8 km
Lively cocktail bar and British restaurant in Bath with stylish interiors, a secluded garden, and celebrated bottomless brunch experiences.
The Hideout
0.8 km
Discover Bath’s hip-hop inspired whisky bar nestled in a historic cellar, blending quirky charm with expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming vibe.
Bath Stag & Hen
0.8 km
Tailored stag and hen party planning in Bath’s historic George Street, blending vibrant nightlife with expert local service for unforgettable celebrations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lomah
0.6 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
0.7 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Zero / Zero
0.7 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
0.8 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Second Bridge
0.9 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Komedia
0.9 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
The Tub
1.8 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Motion
17.1 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
17.2 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
17.6 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.
E11evn's Nightclub
18.1 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
Thekla
18.3 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
18.6 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
18.6 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
18.6 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
