Fitzwilliam Museum

Founded in 1816, the museum was established through a bequest from Richard, Viscount FitzWilliam. His donation included books, manuscripts and works of art, forming the foundation of the museum’s collection. Over the years, the museum has expanded its holdings and is now one of the leading university museums in the country. Its neoclassical building, completed in 1843, is a major landmark in Cambridge.

The museum holds collections covering a wide range of historical periods and artistic styles. It is particularly noted for its European paintings, including works by Titian, Rembrandt and Van Gogh. The antiquities collection features artefacts from ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. The museum also houses an extensive collection of manuscripts, prints and decorative arts.

What to see at the Fitzwilliam Museum

Visitors can explore a diverse range of exhibits across multiple galleries. The painting collection includes works from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Highlights include pieces by Monet, Turner and Gainsborough.

The antiquities galleries display artefacts from civilisations including Egypt, Greece and Rome. Egyptian coffins, Greek pottery and Roman sculptures are among the items on show. The museum also holds medieval manuscripts and rare books, reflecting the history of writing and illustration.

The applied arts collection includes ceramics, glass and textiles. Decorative arts from Europe and Asia are displayed, showcasing craftsmanship across different cultures and time periods. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year.

Temporary exhibitions

In addition to its permanent collection, the Fitzwilliam Museum hosts a programme of temporary exhibitions. Current and planned exhibitions include:

Picturing Excess: Jan Davidsz de Heem
This exhibition (until 13 April 2025) brings together four large still-life paintings by Dutch artist Jan Davidsz de Heem for the first time. Created in the 1600s, these ‘sumptuous still lifes’ depict elaborate arrangements of food, textiles and decorative objects. The display examines the influence of Dutch colonial trade, the symbolic meanings within the compositions and the artist’s techniques. Scientific research reveals how de Heem achieved lifelike textures, colours and luminosity in his paintings.

Rise Up: Resistance, Revolution, Abolition
Rise Up (until 1 June 2025) examines efforts to end transatlantic slavery, highlighting the individuals and movements that fought for abolition between 1750 and 1850. It brings together historic artworks, objects and contemporary works to explore abolition, its legacies and the ongoing struggle for equality. The display focuses on Black Georgians and Victorians, as well as resistance leaders such as Jamaican freedom fighter Nanny of the Maroons and writer Olaudah Equiano.

Visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum is located on Trumpington Street, a short walk south of the city centre. From here, you can walk to most points of interest in Cambridge in around 10–20 minutes.

The museum is open Tuesday–Sunday and is closed on Mondays. Admission is free of charge, although some temporary exhibitions may have an entry fee.

There is a lift in the Courtyard Entrance providing wheelchair access to all floors of the museum; however, the Kiosk Cafe on the north lawn is not wheelchair accessible.

Visitor facilities include a cafe and a gift shop.

Allow at least two hours for your visit.

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