Her Majesty The Queen visited the Holburne today (17 February 2026), as part of a series of engagements showcasing arts and culture in the city of Bath.
Greeted by the Chair of the Museum Edward Bayntun-Coward and Director of the Holburne, Dr Chris Stephens, the Queen spent an hour touring our historic collections and temporary exhibitions which have recently opened.
Starting on the lower ground floor, The Queen was guided around our new Schroder Gallery by Leonie Schroder; curator of the Schroder Collection Caterina Baden, and silver expert Timothy Schroder. The gallery presents one of the finest private collections of Renaissance silverware, paintings, bronzes, maiolica and gems from the Schroder family collection –
On the first floor, Her Majesty toured the exhibition Zandra Rhodes: A Life in Print, a display celebrating the colourful garments of one of Britain’s most influential fashion designers, led by Curator Rosemary Harden –
She then viewed the display of black and white photographs, led by renowned photojournalist Don McCullin –
Her Majesty also viewed The Shape of Care, a group exhibition created by the local community. The Queen met some of the participants who created works of art on display, reflecting on the importance of care.
Participant Debbie reflected afterwards: “It was brilliant! When I was homeless 10 years ago at my lowest of low, I never thought I’d be doing anything like this. It’s a wonderful experience to be involved in.”
Dr Chris Stephens, Director of the Museum said, “It was a true honour to welcome Her Majesty the Queen back to the Holburne. I was extremely proud to showcase the dedication and achievements of my staff and our amazing team of volunteers who make the Holburne a welcoming and inspiring space for everyone.”
Photography Anna Barclay