The Hunterian Museum houses a large collection of medical specimens, anatomical models and surgical instruments, providing an insight into the history and development of medical science. With exhibits spanning centuries, the museum offers a fascinating exploration of human anatomy and medical advancements.
The museum, operated by the Royal College of Surgeons, was founded in 1799 when the government purchased a collection of medical specimens and artefacts from Scottish surgeon, John Hunter. It was closed for six years as part of a £4.6 million refurbishment project, reopening in May 2023.
The Hunterian Museum in London is not to be confused with the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery in Glasgow.
![The Hunterian Museum at the Royal College of Surgeons in London. Note: this photo was taken prior to the museum’s recent renovation. (Photo: StoneColdCrazy at English Wikipedia [CC BY-SA 2.0])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/hunterian-museum.jpg)
What to see at the Hunterian Museum
At the Hunterian Museum in London, you can expect to see a diverse array of exhibits showcasing the history and practice of medicine and surgery. Housed within the Royal College of Surgeons, the museum’s collection spans centuries and encompasses various aspects of anatomy, pathology and surgical techniques. It is noted for its gruesome collection of human specimens with body parts on display inside glass jars.
The museum’s highlight is its extensive collection of anatomical specimens, which provides valuable insights into the structure and function of the human body. From preserved organs to skeletal remains, these specimens offer a unique opportunity for visitors to study human anatomy up close. Additionally, the museum features anatomical models and illustrations, demonstrating the evolution of anatomical knowledge and teaching methods over time.
Visiting the Hunterian Museum
The Hunterian Museum is located on the southern side of Lincoln’s Inn Fields with several other points of interest within a short distance. It is only a three-minute walk to Sir John Soane’s Museum on the other side of Lincoln’s Inn Fields and the Courtauld Gallery, Dr Johnson’s House and the London Transport Museum are all around a 10-minute walk from the museum.
Holborn tube station (on the Central and Piccadilly lines) is a six-minute walk from the museum and the museum is also served by buses at Aldwych.
The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday (it is closed on Mondays and Sundays) and admission is free of charge.
There is a free 30-minute curator highlights tour at 2.15pm every Wednesday afternoon; however, there are only 15 places on the tour so you should arrive early if you want to secure a spot on the tour.
A free digital guide, which gives you more in-depth information about the museum’s exhibits, is available through the Bloomberg Connects app.
Allow up to two hours for your visit.
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