The Foundling Museum tells the story of the Foundling Hospital, the first home for abandoned children established in Britain. The institution was opened in 1739 by the philanthropist Thomas Coram. The collection the museum holds includes paintings and sculptures by well-known British 18th-century artists such as William Hogarth, Thomas Gainsborough, and Joshua Reynolds, as well as works by contemporary artists such as Tracey Emin, Yinka Shonibare, and Lemn Sissay. The museum also displays objects from the history of the Hospital and other artefacts, including a large collection of tokens left by mothers with their babies.
History & Anthropology Art & Design Historic house Person & Artist Photography Children Contemporary art Music
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Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
0 – 21 | Free |
National Art Pass | Free |
Adults | £14.50 |
Reduced | £10.50 |
Please see our website for a full list of Concessions.
40 Brunswick Square, London
15 Nov 2024 – 1 Jun 2025
15 Mar 2024 – 20 Oct 2024
1 Mar 2024 – 1 Sept 2024
22 Sept 2023 – 18 Feb 2024
25 Apr 2023 – 10 Sept 2023
8 Feb 2019 – 5 May 2019
21 Sept 2018 – 20 Jan 2019
31 Jul 2018 – 2 Dec 2018
31 Jul 2018 – 2 Dec 2018
The Foundling Museum has 1 rating.
The Foundling Museum in London offers visitors a poignant look into the history of Britain's first home for abandoned children. Located in Bloomsbury, this museum tells the story of the Foundling Hospital, established in 1739 by Thomas Coram. The museum's exhibits showcase the lives of the children who lived there, as well as the hospital's connections to notable figures in art and music.
Visitors often appreciate the museum's thoughtful presentation of social history. The artworks on display, including pieces donated by William Hogarth and other prominent artists of the time, add depth to the historical narrative. The Handel Gallery, dedicated to the composer George Frideric Handel who was a major benefactor of the hospital, is frequently mentioned as a highlight.
However, some visitors note that the museum is relatively small, which can be seen as both a positive (easily manageable in a short visit) and a negative (limited scope). A few reviews mention that certain exhibits could benefit from more interactive elements to engage younger visitors.
The museum's temporary exhibitions receive mixed feedback, with some praised for their creativity and relevance, while others are considered less impactful.
Overall, The Foundling Museum provides a moving and educational experience, offering insight into an often overlooked aspect of London's social history. While it may not have the grandeur of larger London museums, its focused narrative and intimate setting allow for a more personal connection to the stories presented.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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