holburne museum

It had been some time since we last visited an art gallery. This one didn't disappoint. It's set in a regency building with stunning views over Great Pulteney Street in one direction and a park in the other, complete with a tea shop. There were volunteers on hand in each gallery should you wish to find out more about each painting. We particularly appreciated the landscapes (mainly 18th and 19th century) and took our time to take in each one. You only need an hour for a wander round, 90 minutes for a slower amble. Free too, although we did make a donation.

This museum houses many fascinating objects and some excellent Gainsboroughs, the latter providing an insight into the artist's early career and development.

A good mix of paintings, artefacts and porcelain. Although some of the labels were perfunctory (date, material, manufacturer) there was some attempt to give more explanation. This was especially true in the gallery. Huge paintings by Gainsborough and other famous names. I also liked the two porcelain cups which were identical (from the same mould) except for the decoration which really fools you into thinking they are different models. There were also two statuettes of a figure where one had been amended as tastes changed and one of the Gainsborough paintings explained how the artist had later added his child to the picture and repainted his wife's dress a different colour. Educational and interesting. Great cafe here too and a lift makes it accessible.

The Holburne collection was the highlight for me. A fantastic collection of miniature curios such as Roman intaglios, snuff boxes, painted miniatures and Japanese netsuke . There is also a beautiful chiming skeleton clock and much more. We spent about an hour and finished off in the cafe which wax also very nice . Free entry too .Well worth a visit if you like Antiques.

We met friends here a few days ago to have coffee and look around the museum. The staff were extremely helpful, putting tables together to accommodate a large party, including children. We were made to feel very welcome and I will certainly return and spend longer looking around the exhibits on my next visit to Bath. The Holburne is a short walk from the centre and a good place to escape from the bustle of the city. The canal and park are next door and ideal for a walk or for children to play.

Fascinating museum full of quirky little items from personal collections of the Holbourne family. Some items are very personal and touching, such as the letter from a father telling of the death of his eldest son (from an infected wound suffered at the Battle of Bayonne near the end of the Napoleonic Wars), which seems to be blotted from tears. Staff are enthusiastic and helpful.

Exhibits varied and interestingRegular rotation of exhibitsMusic shows regularlyCafe good and varied

Enjoyable visit to this museum. The silver spoons were particularly interesting.Volunteer staff were friendly and helpful.

Loved all the art, especially the artwork by Turner. The building is stunning. The staff were very helpful and gave a lot of information. My daughter was inspired.

Museum pieces all pretty interesting, lots of artwork and gallerys there. Worth doing the animal spot worksheet if you take the kids there

Good display of paintings and artifacts. Artist and art info. Novel section on fakes. Only let down was abrupt ladies at the entrance who misjudged and patronised us. I had to wonder if they were on comission for guide sales as they were pushy. First time that i didn't leave a donation at free museum.

I stumbled upon this museum by accident while wondering around Bath and was really happy I'd done so. Really interesting displays and exhibitions, beautifully curated. I especially liked the pull out drawers with extra interesting things and info on some of the displays. I only went to the free exhibits but throughly enjoyed it. The miniature - "A family of eye miniatures" was so interesting to me.

Wonderful museum which is free ! Great staff who really knew there job.. Lovely café and good access for all visitors. Would happily visit again

Met a friend for tea and found there was a very funny exhibition. On loan from the Royal Collection. The cafe and restaurant is stylish and restful with a pot of tea just £2.50. Great book shop and fabulous staff

This is well worth the visit. The staff are lovely and friendly and if it's your first time they explain the layout and what you will find there. . It's free to view except like many museums you pay for special exhibitions. Whilst it is a small museum it has lots of interesting artefacts and paintings to see. It also has a shop and a lovely cafe on site.