An interesting, somewhat eclectic, collection created by one man. Items are well displayed, some quite imaginatively, with some interaction using pulled out drawers and magnifying glasses. Worth a visit

I spent a lovely couple of hours wandering through the eclectic collections of Sir William Holburne and other donors. Formerly the Sydney Hotel built in 1794, the grandeur of the building befitted the repurposing of it as a museum. The garden cafe and grounds were amazing as well. An oasis of quiet and grace in a busy city.

The Holburne Museum in Bath is a place worth visiting. It houses the private collection of sir William Thomas Holburne. It’s not a huge museum, but it’s packed with decorative and fine art. During our visit, there was also an interesting show of contemporary art. On the beautiful grounds outside of the museum, a chorus of costumed singers preformed under a huge oak tree. It was quite beautiful.

Decided to visit after it popped up on a ‘things to do in Bath’ article. It houses the private collection of William Holburne. I’d never heard of him so had no idea what I was going to see. The collection of paintings featured show paintings of theatre actors which was great, then a load of men who got their riches from the slave trade…. Which made me feel uncomfortable I’d paid to see that! Not keen on seeing paintings of rich, smug slave traders and their wives who look sad and dead between the eyes! The other collection featured portraits of kings and other senior members of society…. Many of whom took teenage brides…. Another bunch of people I don’t feel the need to celebrate! The artists however, were very talented and some of the pictures even looked 3D they were so real looking!

A beautiful building and some great works of art - a few impressive Gainsborough’s were a treat. It’s a little on the smaller side than I thought, but brilliantly laid out and informative signage. The collection of Holbourne himself was very interesting. A must for this who like old masters and curiosities.

This is a fantastic museum. Just the architecture and the cafe are worth going. But I think I can recall going for free in 2016 and now it has a steep price but the exhibitions are less adventurous or surprising than the used to be. Volunteers and everyone were excellent. When they suggested that I donate part of the price of the ticket, it was not as a gift-aid, so it feels like it has changed since the pandemic for one or other reason. It might be that the times have made it change. Still worth it, though. Just a bit steep and no unexpected wonder.