The Museum of East Asian Art, Bath
Explore 7,000 years of East and Southeast Asian art in Bath’s unique Georgian townhouse museum.
The Museum of East Asian Art in Bath is the UK's only museum solely dedicated to the arts and cultures of East and Southeast Asia. Housed in a charming Georgian townhouse, it showcases over 2,000 objects spanning 7,000 years, including ceramics, jades, bronzes, lacquerware, and bamboo carvings from China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. The museum offers a rich programme of exhibitions, events, and educational activities, providing deep insights into East Asian craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to The Museum of East Asian Art
- 12 Bennett St, Bath, BA1 2QJ, GB
- +441225464640
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy a quieter experience and engage more deeply with the exhibits.
- Check the museum’s schedule for special events like tea ceremonies or Lunar New Year celebrations to enrich your visit.
- Take advantage of the museum shop for unique gifts and souvenirs inspired by East Asian art.
- Use the Bath Discovery Card or National Art Pass for discounted admission.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Bath city center to stops near Bennett Street; the journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single fare costs around £2-£3. Note that some routes may have reduced service on weekends.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Bath Spa railway station to the museum takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, with fares generally between £6 and £10. Taxis are readily available at the station and throughout the city.
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Walking
For those staying in central Bath, the museum is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk from Bath Spa railway station through historic streets. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchair users, with well-maintained pavements.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car should note that parking near the museum is limited and often metered. Public car parks such as Charlotte Street or Avon Street are within a 10-minute walk. Parking fees range from £2 to £4 per hour, and spaces can be scarce during peak times.
The Museum of East Asian Art location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Museum of East Asian Art
A Unique Cultural Treasure in Bath
Nestled in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse at 12 Bennett Street, the Museum of East Asian Art (MEAA) stands as a singular institution in the UK, dedicated exclusively to the diverse arts and cultures of East and Southeast Asia. Founded in 1993 by Brian McElney OBE, a former lawyer with a passion for Asian art, the museum has grown into a vital cultural hub, welcoming scholars, students, and tourists alike. Its central location near Bath’s iconic Circus and Royal Crescent situates it perfectly within the historic city’s rich architectural tapestry.Extensive and Diverse Collections
MEAA's collection encompasses nearly 2,000 objects dating from around 5000 BCE to the present day, offering a sweeping panorama of artistic achievement across millennia. The holdings include exquisite Neolithic pottery, imperial Chinese ceramics, intricate jade carvings, bronzes, lacquerware, and some of Europe’s finest bamboo carvings. While the majority of artifacts are Chinese, the collection also features significant pieces from Japan, Korea, and various Southeast Asian cultures, providing a comprehensive view of the region’s artistic heritage.Engaging Exhibitions and Educational Programs
Beyond its permanent displays, the museum actively curates temporary exhibitions that explore specific themes or artistic traditions, such as the symbolism of dragons or floral inspirations in East Asian art. These exhibitions are complemented by a vibrant events calendar featuring traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, family-friendly trails, workshops, and Lunar New Year celebrations. The museum’s educational mission is central, with interactive learning spaces, guided tours, and publications designed to deepen visitors’ understanding of East Asian cultures.The Museum’s Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors enter a serene and intimate environment where the carefully arranged exhibits allow for thoughtful contemplation. The Georgian setting adds a historic charm that contrasts yet harmonizes with the ancient and contemporary art on display. Knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff and volunteers enhance the experience, often sharing insights that bring the artifacts to life. Accessibility is well considered, with facilities such as lifts and accommodations for disabled visitors ensuring an inclusive atmosphere.Community and Cultural Connections
MEAA also serves as a cultural bridge within Bath, highlighting stories of East Asian communities locally and globally. It fosters connections through its outreach and collaborations, encouraging dialogue and appreciation across cultures. The museum’s role as an independent educational charity underscores its commitment to preserving and promoting East Asian art for future generations.Practical Information and Visitor Amenities
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 to 17:00, with last admission at 16:15, the museum offers affordable entry prices with concessions for seniors, students, and local Discovery Card holders. A well-stocked museum shop provides unique gifts and art-inspired items. Facilities include restrooms, seating areas, and information boards, enhancing visitor comfort during the typical one- to two-hour visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Royal Crescent
0.3 km
Georgian perfection in stone: 150 metres of architectural harmony overlooking Bath's parkland landscape.
Royal Cres
0.4 km
Experience Bath’s Royal Crescent, a stunning Georgian crescent with iconic Ionic columns, historic charm, and sweeping parkland views.
Marlborough Buildings
0.5 km
Georgian elegance in a Grade II listed terrace, where Bath's architectural ambition meets refined 18th-century townhouse design.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
0.5 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
The EASTGATE
0.6 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Green Park Station
0.6 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
0.6 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Archway
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Bath with personalized tours from In and Beyond Bath, your expert local travel guide.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
0.7 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
0.7 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
North Parade, Bath
0.7 km
Experience the historic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of North Parade, Bath, where Georgian architecture meets the charm of the River Avon.
Monks Mill
0.8 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.
Chapel Arts Centre
0.8 km
Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
City Sightseeing Bath Hop On Hop Off
0.8 km
Discover the best of Bath with City Sightseeing's flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
0.1 km
Step into the elegant world of Georgian Bath at the Assembly Rooms, a historic hub of dance, music, and society since 1771.
The Circus - Bath
0.1 km
Discover The Circus, Bath’s iconic Georgian circle blending classical architecture, druidic symbolism, and Masonic mystery in a stunning urban masterpiece.
Fashion Museum Bath
0.1 km
Discover centuries of style and culture at Bath’s Fashion Museum, soon reopening in a stunning new city-centre home.
Beau Nash
0.1 km
Discover exquisite antique furniture in Bath’s historic district at Beau Nash, where timeless craftsmanship meets elegant heritage.
Georgian Garden
0.1 km
Step into Bath’s Georgian Garden, a serene, historically restored 18th-century town garden nestled between iconic Georgian landmarks.
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.
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.
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.
Museum of Bath at Work
0.2 km
Step inside Bath’s industrial past with interactive workshops, historic machinery, and immersive exhibits in a unique 18th-century setting.
Museum of Bath Architecture
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s architectural heritage through immersive exhibits and a detailed city model in a historic chapel setting.
Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein
0.2 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley and Frankenstein in this immersive museum experience in the heart of historic Bath.
No. 1 Royal Crescent
0.3 km
Step back into Georgian elegance at No. 1 Royal Crescent, Bath’s iconic townhouse museum showcasing 18th-century aristocratic life in stunning detail.
The Jane Austen Centre
0.3 km
Step into Regency Bath and explore the life, legacy, and world of Jane Austen at this immersive Georgian townhouse museum and tea room.
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.
Milsom St
0.3 km
Elegant Georgian street in Bath famed for upscale shopping, vibrant dining, and lively courtyards at Milsom Place.
Essential places to dine
Olive Tree Restaurant
0.1 km
Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, where seasonal British ingredients shine in inventive, multi-course tasting menus beneath the Queensberry Hotel.
Henry's Restaurant Bath
0.1 km
Intimate Georgian fine dining celebrating seasonal British cuisine with worldly influences and zero-waste principles.
The Circus Restaurant
0.1 km
Classic Georgian charm meets seasonal European cuisine in a warm, relaxed setting between Bath’s iconic Circus and Royal Crescent.
Woods Restaurant
0.1 km
Family-run modern British bistro with French technique and locally sourced ingredients, opposite Bath's Assembly Rooms.
Crescent Restaurant & Bar Bath
0.2 km
A cozy, family-run restaurant near Bath’s Royal Crescent serving fresh, seasonal dishes with local ingredients in a warm, inviting setting.
Clayton's Kitchen
0.2 km
Modern British fine dining in a Georgian townhouse, where seasonal ingredients and refined technique create memorable meals.
Comptoir+Cuisine
0.2 km
A cozy French bistro in Bath serving refined tapas-style dishes with quirky charm and attentive service.
The Ivy Bath Brasserie & Garden
0.3 km
Sophisticated British dining with seasonal flair, elegant interiors, and a charming garden in the heart of historic Bath.
Montagu's Mews
0.3 km
Contemporary British fine dining in a Georgian setting, where seasonal ingredients and technical mastery meet genuine hospitality.
The Salamander - A Great British Pub.
0.3 km
Intimate Georgian pub serving locally sourced British classics and Bath Ales in Bath's historic city centre.
La Terra
0.4 km
Contemporary Italian fine dining rooted in family tradition, impeccable sourcing, and warm hospitality in Bath's city centre.
Côte Bath
0.4 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.
Ole Tapas
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Bath’s historic city centre.
Boho Marché
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Moroccan-Mediterranean fusion cuisine in Bath’s eclectic Boho Marché, where bold flavors meet whimsical décor.
Corkage Bath
0.4 km
Award-winning wine bar and restaurant serving creative Mediterranean small plates in a charming Bath city-centre setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BIBICO
0.2 km
Discover timeless, ethically made women’s fashion at BIBICO, Bath’s pioneering boutique for sustainable and artisan-crafted clothing.
Grace & Mabel Ltd
0.2 km
Discover timeless British and European fashion with a sustainable focus at Grace & Mabel, Bath’s family-run boutique gem.
Fat Giraffe Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique, handcrafted wooden gifts with a sustainable heart at Bath’s welcoming Fat Giraffe Gifts on Milsom Street.
Vinegar Hill
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts and unique homewares in the heart of Bath’s historic Milsom Street at Vinegar Hill.
The Yellow Shop
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique accessories in Bath’s creative Walcot Street at The Yellow Shop.
Boho
0.3 km
Discover Boho, a stylish ladies' clothing boutique on Broad Street, Bath, blending bohemian flair with attentive service in a historic setting.
House of Fraser
0.3 km
Historic department store blending heritage and modern retail in the heart of Bath’s shopping district.
Milsom Place
0.3 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Georgian shopping and dining oasis nestled within tranquil courtyards on fashionable Milsom Street.
Always Sunday
0.3 km
A vibrant Bath boutique blending vintage charm, artisan homewares, and creative community spirit in a colorful, maximalist setting.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Elegant ladies’ fashion and accessories boutique offering refined style and attentive service in the heart of Bath’s historic Old Bond Street.
Anthropologie
0.5 km
Discover Anthropologie Bath: vibrant women's fashion and unique home décor in a stylish boutique at the heart of historic New Bond Street.
Vintage Abs Bath
0.5 km
Discover authentic vintage clothing and accessories in Bath’s charming Upper Borough Walls at Vintage Abs, a haven for fashion lovers.
Firefly Vintage Bath
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage gems and timeless style at Firefly Vintage Bath, a cozy boutique for curated vintage clothing in the heart of Bath.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover playful Scandinavian design and affordable creative gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bath’s vibrant Union Street.
Wadswick - Bath
0.5 km
Discover authentic British country lifestyle and designer clothing in a historic boutique on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Bath Stag & Hen
0.2 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
0.2 km
Lively cocktail bar and British restaurant in Bath with stylish interiors, a secluded garden, and celebrated bottomless brunch experiences.
Circo - Cellar Bar
0.2 km
Discover Bath’s elegant cellar bar with a circular centerpiece, Michelin-starred cocktails, and a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
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.
Walcot House
0.3 km
A stylish fusion of historic charm, seasonal dining, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Bath’s Walcot Street.
Hall & Woodhouse Bath
0.3 km
Historic multi-floor pub and restaurant in Bath offering classic ales, diverse menu, and rooftop city views.
Saint James Wine Vaults
0.4 km
Authentic Bath pub blending historic charm with vibrant live music and creative community spaces.
The Botanist Bath
0.4 km
A botanical haven in Bath blending historic charm, seasonal menus, award-winning cocktails, and live music across three vibrant floors.
Belushi's Bath
0.4 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
0.4 km
A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
The Bath Distillery Gin Bar
0.4 km
Discover Bath’s historic gin revival in a vibrant Georgian bar with exclusive small-batch gins and expertly crafted cocktails.
Fidel Rum Bar
0.5 km
Discover Bath’s cozy rum sanctuary with expert cocktails, a global rum collection, and a warm, inviting atmosphere at Fidel Rum Bar.
Henrietta Restaurant, Bar & Garden
0.5 km
Elegant dining and classic Afternoon Tea in a charming historic villa with a tranquil garden terrace in the heart of Bathwick.
Vino Vino
0.5 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed wine and cocktail bar in Bath with artisan sharing plates and a vibrant al fresco terrace.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sub 13
0.2 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.
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.
Komedia
0.6 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
0.9 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
16.3 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
Dare to Club
16.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Loco Klub
16.7 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
17.4 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
17.7 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
17.7 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
17.8 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
PRYZM
17.8 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
