Click on each exhibition or event for more details:
New Exhibitions 2025 & Previous Exhibitions
Somerset Miners: Welfare and Health Care
This exhibition, curated by the Bath Medical Museum in collaboration with the Radstock Museum, where it is hosted, draws on both longstanding knowledge and new research from both institutions. Contributions from local ex-miners have been invaluable in shaping its content. The exhibition also highlights mining conditions during the Victorian era, providing insight into the changes that took place over the century leading up to the closure of Somerset’s last two mines in 1973.
Although the Somerset coalfield was relatively small on a national scale, working in its narrow seams posed severe health risks to miners—challenges that were often underestimated and, at times, life-threatening.
The exhibition delves into various aspects of miners’ lives, including their working and living conditions, the serious health issues caused by underground labor, and the response to accidents—both in terms of rescue efforts and medical treatment provided at the pit, at home, and in hospitals. It also examines broader issues stemming from work-related injuries and illnesses, such as the fight for compensation and improved working conditions, initially led by the Friendly Societies and the Miners Association, and later by the NUM.
The exhibition runs from February 1st to late June 2025 and is open during Radstock Museum’s regular hours. For ticket prices and further details, please visit the Radstock Museum website.
Thank you for your generous support and contribution.
Doctor William Turner (1509–1568) and the Rebirth of Bath Spa
The exhibition has come to and end. Thank you for your generous support and participation.
Ashley, a third-year history student at Bath Spa University, had an engaging and successful opening day for his exhibition ‘The Bath Blitz: How Did the Doctors Cope?’ at Bath Medical Museum, located opposite the Hot Bath.
Visitors included Dr. Roger Rolls, Chair of Trustees of the Museum and a retired GP; a relative of Dr. Clara Cross, a heroine of the event who rushed down from the north of England to tend to the injuries of victims evacuated to St. Martin’s Hospital; and the grandson of a patient at The Min, which suffered a direct hit. Remarkably, all the patients and staff at The Min survived, having taken shelter in the hospital’s basement.
Ashley conducted extensive research in the City Archives and unearthed a map of Bath marking all the sites of bombs, both exploded and unexploded.
“It was amazing to see how widespread the damage was,” he shared. “It included a direct hit on the building at the top end of Hetling Court, just yards away from the BMM. Fortunately, the Museum building itself was spared, apart from some slight pockmarking from shrapnel, which you can still see to this day.”
He was also delighted to explain his research to fellow history students who visited the exhibition. They were astounded to learn about the iconic Bath buildings that were destroyed and the ones that narrowly escaped damage.
One visitor from London, whose great-grandparents had survived the London Blitz, admitted to knowing nothing about the Bath Blitz and found the exhibition fascinating.
Museum volunteers Irene and Rebecca were intrigued by the instruments and tools used by doctors and medics in local hospitals and at bombing sites.
“We were very fortunate that Betty Suchar of the BRLSI and Bath U3A discovered our plans for the exhibition and generously donated a book printed in 1943, which described all the medical tools in use at the time. That allowed me to identify everything in the BMM collection. It was so helpful,” explained Ashley with a smile.
Thank you for your generous support and participation.
Apothecaries, Pharmacists, and Druggists
This exhibition was curated by Millie, a third-year history student from Bath Spa University. She chose to research the life, work, and family of John Morris, the first apothecary at “The Min.” Her research included visiting the small museum about The Min at the RUH, consulting Dr. Roger Rolls, and selecting items from the RUH and BMM collections. Dr. Rolls also curated a complementary exhibition on the history of druggists, apothecaries, and pharmacists. The exhibition was very successful, attracting many “long-stay” visitors who took the time to read the information thoroughly and showed a high level of interest. Millie’s interactive game for families was especially popular.
Comments Received:
“What a wonderful place, inspiring and full of facts about the history of Bath. Really brings the story of the springs and therapeutic waters to life. Amazing. Thank you.”
“The most informative and interesting discussion on all things, not just the history of medicine in Bath. This was a great place to start.”
“Amazing knowledge regarding the history of Bath. Much appreciated, and look forward to returning.”
“Very informative accounts from the staff with lots of fascinating information and discoveries. Thank you.”
“My kids loved the game and mashing up the herbs. Really great exhibition. We all enjoyed it.”
“What a great place! The activities were wonderful. My child really liked it. Fascinating information—we will come again. Thank you.”
“I used to volunteer at the chapel in The Min. The pharmacy exhibition is very good, with lots of research.”
The exhibition has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
James Hunt, a postgraduate student from Bath Spa University, devised an exhibition and activities about “Resuscitating The Past”.
The exhibition of Medical Inventions has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
“The Bath Beazer Garden Maze as a Wellbeing Tool”, curated by Bath Medical Museum Volunteer and Heritage Management post-graduate student, Karen Espinosa, has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
Karen expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m very passionate about labyrinths and the positive effect their use can have on people’s wellbeing. Unlike mazes, they are not designed as puzzles to get lost in, but rather as meditative pathways.”
She further explained that the origins of labyrinths can be traced back thousands of years and have been found in various ancient cultures around the world.
Karen’s exhibition described the history of labyrinths, as well as explaining how the Beazer Garden Maze offers a unique opportunity for improving personal wellbeing.
The Beazer Garden ‘Maze’ is located within the city (Spring Gardens Rd, Bath BA2 6PW), along the banks of the River Avon, near Pulteney Bridge. Although called a maze, the design is technically a labyrinth with a maze-like touch. Unlike a maze, which has only a single line woven back and forth, true labyrinths are impossible to get lost in. You can go in any direction you choose and eventually reach the place where you began. The land where the maze stands was donated by Mr. Cyril Beazer in 1973. Cyril Beazer was a prominent figure in the reconstruction and housebuilding industry in Bath and the surrounding region during and after World War II. He was also involved in the local community through his association with the Bath Rugby Club.
Designed by Minotaur Designs for a labyrinth/maze contest for the Bath Festival in 1984 and inaugurated in 1985. The centerpiece, designed by Randoll Coate (1909-2005), Swiss-born who became a British diplomat, maze designer, and “labyrinthologist” and served in the Intelligence Corps during WWII. The maze was designed by Adrian Fisher, who is widely recognised as the world’s leading and most accomplished maze/labyrinth designer. Responsible for designing award-winning mazes for prestigious historic sites, visitor attractions, and private gardens around the world, including Alnwick Castle, Blenheim Palace, Legoland, and the London Dungeon, among others.
Try the maze below!
The exhibition has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
Amanda Pollinger, a student from Bath Spa University, has just completed curating and displaying her exhibition for families, aimed at the ‘fun’ side of the ‘horrors’ of surgery in Victorian times. It stretches from the murderers Hare and Burke, who killed Edinburgh folk to provide bodies for doctors to experiment on, to the role of druggists, and to Louisa Aldrich-Blake, Britain’s first woman surgeon.
Many of the exhibits come from a box of instruments owned and used by Samuel Rains, a Bath surgeon, including the box itself.
“I want to capture the imagination of children and families, but most importantly, to get everyone to take more interest in the history of medicine and medical procedures,” says Amanda.
“Bath has been the center of medical practice and research for 2,000 years, and the 19th century was an amazing time in the development of medicine. This exhibition aims to encompass all the various facets.”
The exhibition has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
Over the Easter Holidays, Bath Medical Museum invited Bathonians to remember the disaster of 1088 when the city was burnt to the ground, rather than focusing on 1066. It was during this time that two of Bath’s most influential heroes began their work.
All families were invited to join in with a series of free Easter Holiday activities at Bath Medical Museum in The Hetling Pump Room, just opposite Bath Thermae Spa and very close to the Cross Bath in Hetling Court. The activities included an exhibition which dealt with ‘Medicine in Bath during Norman Times’, and the life and work of the scholar Adelard of Bath and Bishop John of Tours.
Thank you for your participation, we hope to see you again soon. Please continue to support us!
As part of our programme of ReBalance Bath Festival of Wellbeing, Bath Medical Museum collaborated with Designability and researchers at the University of Bath to present a small-scale yet highly significant and enlightening exhibition showcasing the importance of creating supportive environments and aids to promote ‘Wellbeing’ and ‘Wellness’ for everyone.
Thank you for your participation, we hope to see you again soon. Please continue to support us!
Thank you for your participation, we hope to see you again soon. Please continue to support us!
New Events 2025
A FUNDRAISING EVENING FOR THE BATH MEDICAL MUSEUM
Gather your family and friends for a heartwarming celebration of music, culture, and connection! This family-friendly event welcomes children and adults alike to experience the magic of piano music as a universal language – one that transcends borders, unites hearts, and nurtures wellbeing for all. The music of the night will be fun, lively, and light-hearted – perfect for all ages to enjoy! With inspiring performances and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this event is the perfect opportunity to share in the joy of music and culture as a family. Together, we’ll celebrate harmony across cultures while supporting the vital work of the Bath Medical Museum. Join us for an unforgettable day filled with music, connection, and togetherness – an event to be enjoyed by all generations.
Theme: Harmony Across Cultures – Wellbeing Through International Music
Date: 21st June, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Individual Rehearsal & Wellbeing); 5:00 PM – 7:45 PM (Performance & Certificate Presentation, with Intermission)
Venue: Michael Tippett Centre, Bath Spa University
Piano Performance
Students’ Recital
Teacher and Guest Performances
Romantic & Modern Music from Around the World
- Yiruma (1978-present) – Poem+
- Franz Schubert (1797–1828) – “Serenade” (Ständchen) for Trumpet and Piano
- Poem and Piano
- Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849) – Nocturne Op 48 No.1
- Claude Debussy (1862-1918) – La Cathedral Engloutie
- Timeless Western Melodies x Cantonese Pop Medley
- Japanese Studio Ghibli Medley
Ticket Pricing
Student Performers: £15 (£2 extra for a certificate)
General Public / Family / Friends: £18 per ticket
Discounted Price: £17 for Bath Spa University students or for every fourth general admission ticket purchased by the same group
Half Price: £9 for Children Under 12 (Non-Performers Only)
Free Admission for Children Aged 3 or Under (Non-Performers Only)
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Reserve your spot now at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/bathmedicalmuseum/1641141
The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Bath, BA1 1QY
Tuesday 20th May 2025 4:30PM
In collaboration with Bath Spa Live, this event will feature a series of short talks exploring the many ways we sense and experience water. Through soundscapes, scents, and tastings the audience will discover how geography and environmental conditions shape water’s sensory qualities. The event will also explore the health benefits of water and geothermal spas.
Created by Lori Bystrom.
Presented by Roger Rolls (Bath Medical Museum), Mathew Jones (Wessex Water), Tracey Lewarne (Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition), Natasha Child (BSU alumni – MA Environmental Humanities), Joolz Thornton (BSU alumni- Creative Music Technology).
Sounds recorded/created by Natasha Child and Joolz Thornton.
Location:
The Gainsborough Bath Spa, Bath, BA1 1QY
Booking:
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/bathspalive/t-gavaaak
Previous Events
Thank you for your generous support and contribution.
DATE TO BE CONFIRMED:
Workshop Description:
Unlock the secrets to discovering your ikigai, the Japanese concept of a life worth living, in this engaging 30-minute workshop hosted by Bath Medical Museum’s trustee, Cheryl Cecilia. Through personal stories spanning three unique environments – Hong Kong’s bustling urban life, the natural serenity of Bled, Slovenia, and the historical charm of Bath – you’ll explore how our surroundings influence our values, potential, and purpose.
From an architectural perspective, learn how design, colours, and sensory elements shape our lives. Delve into the ikigai diagram in a brief interactive session and leave with practical insights to start uncovering your own pathway to purpose.
This session is perfect for anyone seeking inspiration, clarity, or a fresh perspective on life’s journey. Join us for an enlightening exploration of self-discovery and transformation!
Workshop Title: Finding Your Ikigai: Reflections and Pathways to Understanding Your Potential
Date of workshop: 6 Feb 2025
Time: 14:00-14:30
Venue: Bath Medical Museum, The Hetling Pump Room, 1 Hetling Court, BA1 1SH
Very limited capacity! Reserve your spot by clicking this booking link: https://forms.gle/GV368tTSjcM6bmg7A
Thank you for your generous support and contribution.
Tuesday, February 11th, 2 pm – 4 pm: An interactive introduction to First Aid and how to cope with emergencies, led by Red Cross volunteers.
January 28th, 2 pm – 4 pm: In conjunction with Bath University Pharmacy Department, there will be a Mouse Exchange—a curiosity-driven activity exploring the origins of laboratory mice through crafting and conversations. As participants craft felt mice, discussions will unfold about where research animals come from and how they are cared for.
We look forward to seeing you there!
The event has come to an end. Thank you for your participation!
Building on our earlier workshop, “Decoding Teaching and Pedagogic Research,” this session explored what helps and what hinders teachers in researching their own practice. Without engaging in pedagogic research, how can you truly know what resonates with your students? When time and resources are tight, how can you maximise their impact? Imagine you are a lecturer juggling various commitments – how can you still make pedagogic research happen? The talk will also cover some support services that the Teaching and Learning Community of Practice (T&L CoP) offers to teachers across disciplines.
Thank you for your participation which had made this event a huge success.
This interactive session explored the meaning of willingness to communicate (WTC) and class participation from the perspectives of attendees. Rather than being given scholarly definitions from the literature, participants will be invited to discuss any similarities and differences between WTC and class participation, as well as to imagine various forms of participation that could take place in and out of the classroom. Following the participatory rituals established in the previous chatty classroom
competition, participants will have the opportunity to peer assess each other’s contributions using poker chips.
Speaker: Vienne Lin, Department of Education, University of Bath
The event has come to an end. Thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
Thank you for your generous support and contribution!
Regency Health, Wellbeing, Medicine and ‘The Waters’
10:30 & 11:30 (duration 20 minutes)
Venue: Bath Medical Museum, Hetling Pump Room, 1 Hetling Court BA1 1SH
A unique opportunity to visit The Hetling Pump Room, pre-eminent location for taking The Waters in 18th century Bath before the Grand Pump Room opened. It was here the Austens came on one of their early visits in 1799 so that Edward could take the waters.
During the Bathscape Walking Festival, BMM contributed two guided walks using the Historic Pharmacies walking trail. The walk was guided by Dr. Roger Rolls.
BMM provided free fun family ‘hands-on medical workshops’ at The Hub in Foxhill on Monday, August 5th, and Thursday, August 22nd. The event has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
The event has come to an end and has been very successful. Thank you very much for your generous support and participation!
The partnership with the University of Bath, Department of Health, has come to an end. Every fortnight, a PhD researcher visited the Hetling Room and shared their research with members and volunteers on a variety of subjects.
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The event has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
Abstract of Talk:
In collaboration with the Chinese University of Hong Kong (https://www.cuhk.edu.hk/clear/), we are having a sharing session on teaching and pedagogic research. Do you have a particular teacher that you like at school or university? What do you like about them? Is it because of their teaching methods, their personality, their caring attitude towards students, or their dedication to creating a positive learning impact on students? Or perhaps it’s a combination of these or other reasons? Now, imagine that you have been appointed as the detective to find out these reasons. What data would you collect to support your arguments? How would you interpret them? Have you encountered any challenges? What can you do to address them? Your voice matters! Join us for an interactive talk where ideas flow freely.
The event has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
Description:
An interactive session aims to bring second language acquisition, and willingness to communicate to life. The session will kick off with a fun ‘give it a go’ language learning activity, where everyone will try out common expressions in a second language, such as Mandarin. Next, the participants will engage in the Chatty Classroom Competition. They will earn poker chips for their active contribution to the discussion. This is the opportunity to showcase what they have just learnt. Translanguaging is welcome. Participants can use their entire linguistic repertoire to communicate. The session will end with some collective reflection on the value of student participation, the opportunities and challenges in co-constructing an energetic, dialogic learning environment, as well as other forms of contributions in the classroom.
Date: 20 June 2024 (Thursday)
Time: 3 – 4pm
Venue: The Hetling Pump Room, Bath Medical Museum
Speaker: Vienne Lin, Doctoral Researcher, Department of Education, University of Bath
Biography: Vienne Lin is a doctoral researcher in the Department of Education at the University of Bath. Her research focuses on willingness to communicate and class participation. Her work emphasises the creation of a constructive and inclusive learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds and advocates for understanding students’ struggles with class participation from the perspective of willingness to communicate.
The collaborative workshop with the University of Bath has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
The Age-friendly VIP is organising an interactive gardening session that aims to foster intergenerational connections by bringing together older and younger adults. Participants will engage in a handcraft activity, such as the delightful art of painting mini terracotta pots, at the Bath Medical Museum.
The event has come to an end, and we thank you for your generous support and contribution, which have made it a huge success.
400+ visitors crowded into The Guildhall on Sunday 21st April when Trustees and Volunteers staffed a BMM stand advertising the work of The Museum as part of Bath World Heritage Day.
It was very successful. The BMM included the ‘virtual’ model of The 1942 RNHRD Building, a pill making machine, rocks and explanation of the Bath Landscape in the context of ‘the healing waters’, a table top ‘zen garden’ for relaxation and well being, a quiz based around the famous painting of Dr ‘biscuit’ Oliver’s consultation with 3 patients, activities for families along with a small collection of Tibetan ‘wellbeing’ devices, an opportunity for children to colour in ‘microbiomes’ and learn about hygiene, and several medical devices including a ‘fleam’ for bloodletting and a prosthetic hip.
Notable visitors to the stand included The Mayor, The Chair of Directors of Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, citizens from Italy, France, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xian, India and well as friends form Bath itself. It was great fun and BMM is very very grateful to the volunteers who made the day possible by working hard and engaging with all the members of the public who visited us. One of the BMM trustees Richard Meunier was supervising his own stand which illustrated the work of the Bath Archives and friends from the BRLSI who recently supported us in our exhibition about Bishop John and Adelard were our immediate neighbours. It was a very successful day thanks to the volunteers who helped.
Walking Trails
>> Three original Bath Medical Trails by BMM are now available! Download BMM Bath Medical Trail.
>> Try this Biscuit Oliver Trail designed by Bath Medical Museum below, that visits key locations associated with the life and work of Dr William Oliver FRS.
