Families

Home to over 10,000 objects from across the globe and a vibrant programme of art exhibitions, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy at The Holburne. Families can take part in a variety of self-guided activities and make use of resources available daily to enrich their visit. Throughout the year, we also run a wide range of creative workshops, designed to spark inspiration and provide a space for future artists to explore, make, and create.

Combine your museum visit with a trip to the wonderful Sydney Gardens playpark

Want to join our Families Newsletter Mailing List? Email education@holburne.org with your preferred contact email.

Activity Trails

We offer activity trails aimed at children and families at different times throughout the year. This could be inspired by a certain new exhibition or special occasion/event. Please ask at front desk for more information about what’s available at the time of your visit.

Sensory Bags

Sensory Bags offer a range of fun, interactive sensory resources and toys to enhance your visit to the museum. The bags have been designed to support visitors with additional sensory needs but anyone can book out and use a Sensory bag to accompany their time in the museum.

Find out what’s included in a Sensory Bag here  or pre-book you Sensory Bag here

Discovery Drawers

Discover activity drawers throughout the extension galleries. Spot the fake objects and guess what others are made from; children of all ages love exploring the activity drawers, with magnifying glasses to help where needed.

Space to Make

Space to Make is a FREE, accessible, creative area located in the heart of the Holburne Museum. The space provides engaging, making-based activities designed for children and families. Inspired by the museum’s latest exhibitions and unique collection, activities are self-led, ideal for budding creatives or mini makers to enjoy! Available during museum opening hours, located on the museum ground floor.

Exhibitions

Under 18’s go free – for all temporary exhibitions and permanent collection!

Facilities

Both our male and female toilets have baby-changing facilities.
For the safety of the collections, pushchairs cannot be taken into the galleries but can be left at Reception.
The museum is fully accessible. We have parking for Blue Badge holders and a wheelchair can be booked in advance of your visit.

Shop

Our shop is full of creative art inspired purchases for pocket money prices.

Please contact us if you have any questions by phone tel 01225 388569 or by email enquiries@holburne.org

Today
Chairs and tables by the glass walls of the Garden Cafe

Garden Cafe

Come and see us in the Garden Cafe at The Holburne Museum. The cafe is run by Benugo and shares the Museum’s opening hours, with the last order taken half an hour before we close. We are happy to supply free drinking water and high chairs and our menu includes kids’ packed lunches.

The Collection

The heart of the present day Collection was formed by Sir Thomas William Holburne (1793-1874). As a second son, Thomas William (generally known as William) first pursued a naval career. He ultimately inherited the Baronetcy in 1820 following the death of his elder brother, Francis, at the Battle of Bayonne in 1814.

In 1882 this collection of over 4,000 objects, pictures and books was bequeathed to the people of Bath by Holburne’s sister, Mary Anne Barbara Holburne. One of the Holburne’s main purposes is to preserve the things that have been entrusted to our care.

The Holburne Museum