The Holburne Museum: Bath’s Treasure of Fine and Decorative Arts
Discover Bath’s elegant Holburne Museum, a treasure trove of fine art and decorative masterpieces set in a grand Georgian building with charming gardens.
The Holburne Museum in Bath is a distinguished art museum nestled on Great Pulteney Street, showcasing an exceptional collection of fine and decorative arts. Housed in a grand historic building, it features works from the eighteenth century alongside Sir William Holburne’s personal collection. Visitors can enjoy themed displays, elegant interiors, and a charming garden cafe, making it a cultural highlight in Bath’s scenic Bathwick district.
A brief summary to The Holburne Museum
- Great Pulteney St, Bath, Bathwick, BA2 4DB, GB
- +441225388569
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 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 from 3 to 5pm for free admission to the museum’s collections and exhibitions.
- Explore the adjacent Sydney Gardens included with your ticket for a peaceful stroll in historic landscaped grounds.
- Check the museum’s website for current special exhibitions and seasonal events to enrich your visit.
- Allow at least 1 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, and the garden cafe.
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
Take local buses from Bath city center to stops near Great Pulteney Street; journey times range from 10 to 20 minutes. Services run frequently but check schedules for weekend variations. A single fare costs approximately £2.50.
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Walking
From central Bath, a pleasant 20- to 30-minute walk along the scenic streets leads to the Holburne Museum. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Taxi
Local taxi services provide a quick 5- to 10-minute ride from Bath city center to the museum. Expect fares around £7 to £12 depending on traffic.
The Holburne Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Holburne Museum
A Historic Setting Steeped in Elegance
The Holburne Museum occupies a striking Georgian building on Great Pulteney Street, Bathwick, a location renowned for its architectural grandeur. Originally designed as a hotel and later transformed into a museum, the building’s elegant facade and refined interiors set a fitting stage for its art collections. The former ballroom, now a gallery space, retains its crystal chandeliers and classical detailing, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into eighteenth-century aristocratic life.Curated Collections Reflecting Artistic Heritage
The museum’s core is the collection of Sir William Holburne, whose passion for art shaped the institution. His assemblage includes Golden-Age Dutch paintings, exquisite portrait miniatures, and finely crafted gems. The museum further enriches this with themed exhibitions that explore eighteenth-century culture through porcelain, silver, and decorative arts. Each gallery is thoughtfully curated to highlight the craftsmanship and social history behind the objects.Engaging Visitor Experience and Facilities
Visitors can explore the permanent and temporary exhibitions across the museum’s first and second floors. The museum offers free admission to under-18s and certain groups, with regular free entry periods on Wednesday afternoons and the last Friday evening of each month. Beyond the galleries, the Holburne’s garden cafe provides a tranquil spot to relax, while the museum shop supports local artists with curated gifts and books. The surrounding Sydney Gardens, accessible with museum admission, add to the serene atmosphere.Community and Cultural Impact
The Holburne Museum is more than a repository of art; it is a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to inclusivity and wellbeing through creativity. Its mission, "Changing Lives Through Art," reflects a commitment to making art accessible and inspiring for all visitors. The museum hosts events, workshops, and exhibitions that engage the local community and visitors alike, fostering a deeper appreciation of art’s role in society.Seasonal Highlights and Special Exhibitions
Throughout the year, the Holburne hosts a dynamic program of exhibitions showcasing contemporary and historical artists. Recent and upcoming exhibitions include works by renowned photographers and painters, as well as themed displays such as "Illustrating Austen" and "Sculpting the Earth." Seasonal events, including a festive Father Christmas Grotto, enhance the visitor experience and draw diverse audiences.Accessibility and Visitor Information
Open daily from 10am to 5pm (11am on Sundays and bank holidays), the museum is closed on select winter holidays. It welcomes assistance dogs and provides amenities such as restrooms, a cafe, and a shop. Located in a well-connected urban area of Bath, it is accessible by public transport and offers a welcoming environment for families, solo travelers, and art enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The EASTGATE
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Monks Mill
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Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
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Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
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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
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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
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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
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Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Westgate Buildings
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Explore the enchanting Westgate Buildings in Bath, where Georgian architecture meets vibrant shops and delightful dining experiences.
Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution
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Sham Castle
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SouthGate Bath
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The Forum
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Savor authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the charming Bathwick neighborhood at Antica Bath Restaurant.
Bathwick Boatman Riverside
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Charming riverside dining in Bath’s historic boathouse, serving fresh seasonal dishes with warm, family-run hospitality.
Chez Dominique
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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
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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
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Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Sotto Sotto
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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
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Discover unique gifts in TILLIUS, a charming boutique nestled on Bath’s iconic Georgian Pulteney Bridge, blending history with distinctive finds.
Wadswick - Bath
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Discover authentic British country lifestyle and designer clothing in a historic boutique on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge.
The Yellow Shop
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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
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Discover unique handcrafted gifts and wooden puzzles at Wood & Burr, a charming boutique nestled in the heart of historic Bath.
Boho
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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
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Nām
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Firefly Vintage Bath
0.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Henrietta Restaurant, Bar & Garden
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Opium Bar
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Walcot House
0.6 km
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Belushi's Bath
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The Old Green Tree
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A cozy and historic Bath pub with quality ales, warm wood interiors, and a welcoming, timeless atmosphere.
Mandalyns Bath
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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
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Sleight Magic Bar
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All Bar One Bath
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Revolution Bath
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Lively cocktail bar in Bath’s city centre offering creative drinks, American-inspired eats, and vibrant nightlife until the early hours.
ArtBar
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The Botanist Bath
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Slug & Lettuce - Bath
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The Hideout
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Bath Stag & Hen
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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
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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
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Sub 13
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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
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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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- 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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly