Hunterian Museum image

Hunterian Museum

Museum History museum Science museum Natural history museum

One of the Top rated History museums in London


Address

The Royal College of Surgeons of England 38, 43 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PE, United Kingdom

Website

hunterianmuseum.org

Contact

+44 20 7405 3474

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (809 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: (Good Friday), 10 AM to 5 PM, Hours might differ
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (46) interesting (27) medical (22) collection (22) visit (19) specimens (19) history (17) free (15) human (13) surgery (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Juliette H. 5 years ago on Google
    I just wanted to drop this note for any foreign visitors so they don't plan to visit the museum while it's closed and it disrupts their trip/plans. The lovely museum is closed until 2021, keep an eye on the official website, which states: "The Hunterian Museum is closed to the public until 2021 while the Royal College of Surgeons building is redeveloped. When we reopen we look forward to welcoming the public into new, fully accessible spaces that will tell the history and ongoing story of surgery."
    17 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lth C. 3 months ago on Google • 432 reviews New
    I loved it! My eldest is in medical school for neurosurgery and he wanted us to go to this i first thought it was going to be dull. Boy was I wrong its a must see. It truly shows how surgery evolved overtime

  • 5/5 Kwok L. 3 months ago on Google • 288 reviews New
    Nestled within the grand halls of the Royal College of Surgeons in London, the Hunterian Museum stands as a testament to the remarkable advancements in medicine and surgery over centuries. Housing an extensive collection of artifacts, specimens, and surgical instruments, the museum offers a captivating journey through the evolution of medical practices, from ancient times to the present day. The museum's heart lies in the extraordinary bequest of John Hunter, a renowned 18th-century surgeon and anatomist. Hunter's passion for medical knowledge led him to amass a vast collection of specimens, spanning the human body, animals, and pathological conditions. These preserved specimens, meticulously prepared and labeled, provide a stark yet compelling insight into the fragility and resilience of the human form. Beyond its collection of anatomical specimens, the Hunterian Museum also houses an impressive array of surgical instruments, dating back to ancient civilizations. These tools, ranging from rudimentary scalpels to intricate bone saws, offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of surgical techniques and the ingenuity of medical practitioners throughout history. The museum's exhibits are not limited to physical artifacts; it also features paintings, sculptures, and historical documents that illuminate the social and cultural context of medicine. These visual representations depict the lives of surgeons, patients, and medical institutions, adding a human dimension to the museum's collection. The Hunterian Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in medical history, anatomy, or the evolution of surgical practices. Its unique collection and engaging exhibits offer a captivating journey through the past, present, and future of medicine, making it a truly remarkable destination for curious minds.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark I. 1 month ago on Google • 293 reviews New
    Has been closed for a number of years due to building work but recently reopened. I visited the older museum which was more just a lot of display cabinets so I'm happy to say the new layout has much more of a story to tell about why the exhibits exist and a passage through time. I will warn you many of the exhibits are body parts collected in jars and that some could be upsetting for some folks with items such as baby fetus in various stages of development so please consider if this is suitable for you or your kids maybe. I recommend getting timed tickets which are free as it seems to be busier now than in the past, there is also a small cafe at the back which was fine.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Frank H. 1 month ago on Google • 288 reviews New
    Fascinating museum, with an incredible collection of body parts, animals, and other surgery and medical paraphernalia. Would highly recommend- it's free as well, although I would heartily recommend donating using one of the donation tablets outside the exit to the museum, as even just £5 is less than a ticket to most museums. Lovely gift shop as well Book tickets (free) via the website if you're planning to visit during a weekend or holiday period. If you're going in the weekday, then you can just turn up. Bonus is that you can walk through the London Inns of Court on your way either to or from the Museum.

  • 5/5 Stephanie N. 7 months ago on Google • 177 reviews
    This is a small but really packed museum. Both my kids (Ages 5 and 8) got so much from the visit and asked so many questions. It was great to see them so stimulated. I wouldn't recommend it for children any younger. I really enjoyed listening to the personal experiences of the people who had undergone surgery and the surgeons who carried out the work. I found it a very real touch where the jars almost feel surreal or a bit removed from reality.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Suzanna O. 6 months ago on Google • 218 reviews
    It’s not a museum for everyone. I felt quite overwhelmed by the sheer number of genitalia and foetuses on display. Also some seriously malformed spines and other bones. Lizards still with eggs in them. Definitely interesting if you want to learn about bodies and processes they undergo, not the best if your imagination runs wild. All the items on display were marked and it was easy to find a respective label, which is impressive since the exhibits are placed tightly on the shelves. It was nice learning about Hunterian, bodies, and the history of medicine and surgery.

  • 5/5 Richard S. 4 months ago on Google • 217 reviews
    Unsurprisingly a little macabre but beautifully well presented combined with unbelievably polite staff and a quite excellent cafe. Well worth a trip if the subject in any way interests you. It is hard to imagine the collection was once three times the size but still a sizeable display and entry is free. We'll worth a visit.

  • 1/5 Delaney 1 year ago on Google
    John Hunter was a thief, like a lot of his contemporaries. Countless specimens on display here were acquired through unethical means - Hunter paid for the stolen body of Charles Byrne the “Irish Giant” and proceeded to dissect it and then exhibit it against the explicit wishes of Byrne, who wanted to be buried at sea. Byrne knew exactly what Hunter wanted to do with his remains, and desperately wanted to avoid it but sadly, his skeleton is still kept here. Please do not take pictures or selfies of his skeleton or better yet, boycott this museum. Let Charles Byrne rest in peace.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 vikki b. 3 weeks ago on Google • 170 reviews New
    Very interested look "inside" medicine throughout history. If you're a medical student or just curious what things look like on the inside of not just humans but various animals and artifacts this is for you. We booked free tickets online and walked right in. The space is on the small side sp they control entry to prevent overcrowding.

  • 5/5 Şevval A. 1 month ago on Google • 17 reviews New
    You must definitely visit! The Hunterian Museum offers a extensive collection showcases a diverse range of specimens, providing an in-depth look into the wonders of anatomy and medical history. The detailed exhibits, coupled with informative descriptions, make it an enlightening journey for both enthusiasts and those new to the subject! It was a amazing experience.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Joshua B. 5 years ago on Google
    I’ll visit when they finally release the stolen body of the Irish Giant. The man wanted to be buried at sea when he died almost 200 Years ago... then this museum stole his body during transport. This shouldn’t be tolerated in this day and age. Free the Irish Man and give him the burial he wanted so badly!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mariana J. 8 months ago on Google
    Truly fascinating and educational museum. Highly recommended for anyone who is medical field and anyone who has interests in anatomy and science. Thank you for preserving this museum trough the years!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dr Jesica Mac L. 9 months ago on Google
    Amazing museum and great exhibitions! A must seen
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amy E. 6 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing. It's easy to get to and never too busy. Really interesting and loads of samples and they don't dumb it down for you.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 wynmon w. 6 months ago on Google • 29 reviews
    Recently renovated, a lot more modern. I do miss the old decor a lot but the new brings in a lot more customer friendly things like lockers and new toilets. They've also sorted out their display and is much easier to digest and sieve through all the information. Remains to be one of my favourite museums to visit in London! Absolutely fascinating collection and history.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steve P. 10 months ago on Google
    Words like 'grisly' and 'macabre' are often used in the media, to describe this museum. And if you're somewhat squeamish, then of course you won't be at all interested in coming here. Neither will you ever see your child being born, nor be able to help someone who's suffered an injury. But for the rest of us, it is a fascinating collection from the animal and human world. When you consider that some of this stuff was being collected 250 years ago, it does highlight the pioneering work done by Hunter and others. Following the building refurbishment, the museum is nicely laid out, nicely lit, and includes excellent displays on surgical progress in more recent times, alongside all the historic specimens. And it's free.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amy W. 7 years ago on Google
    As a science and medical geek this place is amazing!! This museum has a very robust collection of diseased organs and fetus development. The most interesting piece for me was a cross-section of a young child's skull where you can see the development of adult teeth growing in with the baby teeth still in tact. Really cool stuff!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica M. 7 years ago on Google
    Very interesting visit. Good day out if you're interested in anatomy or like morbid interesting things. Very thought provoking and enlightening
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kaiying Z. 9 months ago on Google
    This is one of the museums that I am expecting its reopening for long, and it won’t disappoint you at all! I’ve been to several similar surgical or medical themed museums all over the world before, but I have to say this one probably has the best labeling and explaining for non-professionals. Brilliant, and totally recommended.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lindsey B. 3 weeks ago on Google • 80 reviews New
    One of my favorite places to visit in London! Such a great collection and very interesting samples. As a nurse I found it helpful to see what different cancers, cysts and TB look like from the inside. There are so many different rows of samples it is hard to take it all in! They recommend getting a ticket for a time slot but when we went it wasn't busy so we were able to just walk in. Free entry though which is amazing

  • 5/5 Teck B. 7 months ago on Google
    Best to go online and register for a slot to visit the museum. Entry is free so slots for the day might be taken up quite quickly. Specimens are very well preserved and extremely interesting. Allocate about 2 hours in the museum if you plan to take your time with the exhibits.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jennifer C. 7 months ago on Google
    Very interesting and educational museum exhibiting a lot of John Hunters collection. There are a lot of human and animal body parts in the exhibition in jars. Fascinating how surgery has changed throughout the years
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zornitsa V. 4 months ago on Google
    I was inspired by the story of John Hunter - how curious he was for the surrounding world, how much he managed to explore during his lifetime and to bring medicine forward in those times. Definitely recommended for a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Philippa T. 6 years ago on Google
    I really enjoyed my visit here. I made an effort to go before it closes for its refurbishment for 3 years. The collection is impressive, having read about some of the specimens I was happy to see them first hand. The assistants on the desk are very knowledgeable. It has a good atmosphere about it. Good luck with the refurbishment!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 P-ko I. 6 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It was very interesting. I've never seen a skull of a child with bicephaly. A questionnaire was taken at the entrance. Regarding the roots of my biological race, for some reason there was only China in the Asian column, so when I asked "I do not have a column for Japan", "I do not have a single drop of Chinese blood. The staff asked (interesting question ...!) (Original) 大変大変興味深かったです。双頭症の子供の頭蓋骨など、今まで見たことがありませんでした。入り口でアンケートをとられました。自分の生物学的な人種のルーツについてだったのですが、なぜかアジア欄に中国しかなかったので「日本の欄がありませんけど」と聞いたら「中国の血が一滴も入っていないのですか?」とスタッフに聞かれました(興味深い質問…!)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alan 8 months ago on Google
    Bizarre, macabre and thoroughly educational. One of London's more unique museums that's great for lovers of science- think of it as the grown up version to the National Science museum. Free but bookings needed in advance.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Rafal 4 years ago on Google
    CLOSED TILL 2021. Should update on Google maps...
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Linda H. 9 months ago on Google
    Super place, very interesting. Much better now it's been revamped. Lots of interactive elements, lots of facts and stats, and lots of artefacts from long gone creatures. Kids will love it. Staff professional and friendly and more facilities than before. Well worth a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ashley H. 6 months ago on Google • 17 reviews
    Really interesting museum of surgery history, not for the squeamish or those that are uncomfortable seeing human remains on display. The museum is free but I highly recommend booking and donating if you can.

  • 4/5 Robot S. 3 weeks ago on Google • 10 reviews New
    A super interesting and well curated collection! The insect specimens were perfect for my research. Shout-out to the staff member who agreed with us about Dr James Barry we love you :)

  • 5/5 Josh B. 6 years ago on Google
    Free museum but the amount of cool specimens here would allow them to charge 10 euros. Very cool dissected organisms as well as tools of instruments and other medical-related items

  • 4/5 Abhinav D. 1 year ago on Google
    Must visit for a medical student or someone interested in the history of medical sciences

  • 5/5 Jonathan E. 1 year ago on Google
    Very, very cool! Wish that it was open again!

  • 5/5 Jassy 10 months ago on Google
    As a person who works in the medical field, this place fascinates me (definitely like a playground). Lots of specimen displays from portraits, historic medical instruments, preserved human body part specimens, and so much more. I love how they set the place up like a transition from ancient ways of medicine to modern medical advancement.

  • 5/5 N D. 1 year ago on Google
    I've been there 10 years ok. Back than you had to walk through the medical college, which was a little confusing when you got caught in between students rushing to classes. As a medical professional and also as someone interested in medical history it is a incredible museum. The ethicalness is very debatable, but still, a must see if that interests you!

  • 5/5 Shaun Hannah (. 9 months ago on Google
    Well presented & Fasinating, need several visits to absorb properly. Photos of human exhibits prohibited can easily spend several hours, we visited twice in a week.

  • 5/5 Timothy G. 9 months ago on Google
    A brand new iteration of John Hunter's amazing collection of human and animal specimens plus related curios. Bags must be stowed away in the lockers provided. There's a cafe as well so you can mull over your newly acquired anatomy & physiology knowledge over a cup of coffee and cake.

  • 4/5 cheryl e. 9 months ago on Google
    Can see anatomy of various range of living creatures including humans. Huge amount of specimens in jars & cross sectioned. Is the most interesting museum I've ever visited.

  • 5/5 Zoe C. 9 months ago on Google
    Fascinating museum. Not for the faint-hearted or squeamish.

  • 5/5 Tom Huw H. 8 months ago on Google
    10/10 must visit, great museum and very informative. The collection is big, would recommend to all. I think even younger kids would find it interesting

  • 5/5 Fiza Z. 9 months ago on Google
    If you’re squeamish when it comes to medicine, the human body, biology, etc. don’t come here. If you have trypophobia, don’t come here. If not, this place is so great and it’s worth a visit if you’re in London. Not so busy because they work by a booking system, so only a certain number of people may enter at once. Medical oddities, all real, and educational information boards. It was entertaining, free, and definitely a place you’d want to see if you’re curious about medicine etc.

  • 5/5 Harriet H. 8 months ago on Google
    It was fascinating to have come here and learn about the history of how surgery was back in the 17th century up until today, learn about the historical figures like John and William Hunter, and witness anatomy and physiology as well as pathology of humans and animals through their preserved displays. Having recently undertaken work experience in a surgical unit specialising in orthopaedics, it was amazing to see how things were back then and how surgical procedures and tech are shaped into how they are today. Whilst it was an incredible experience, the preserved organs and bodies of faeces, insects, sea creatures and animals did make me feel slightly nauseous at some point. A sit-down break looking away from the displays is advised. Nevertheless, a unique experience. It is a free exhibition, but there’s a lot to unravel here. Definitely worth checking out as you don’t need to pay a thing.

  • 5/5 Kiff van B. 8 months ago on Google
    An wonderfully extensive collection of anatomical specimens. A real treat for anyone who has an interest in biology. Well laid out and clearly labelled. Book entry in advance. It's free

  • 5/5 Patricija K. 8 months ago on Google
    A very underrated museum, no crowds, but pre-booking a time slot recommended. An exciting look into a brilliant collection. Definitely a must-see.

  • 5/5 Anne B. 8 months ago on Google
    Fascinating history of surgery and how it has evolved to modern day. They have 70,000 specimens on display. I especially enjoyed the videos of how particular surgeries helped individuals.

  • 4/5 Susan M. 1 month ago on Google • 9 reviews New
    Lived in London all my life and it's the first time I've heard of the Hunterian Museum. It's very interesting and educational without being in the slightest bit boring. You can go at your own pace. It was interesting to see just how much the world has evolved medically. Will go again as the whole area is lovely.

  • 5/5 Juan M. 6 years ago on Google
    Interesting place

  • 5/5 Sharon P. 6 years ago on Google
    Brilliant little museum. Very interesting.

  • 5/5 E F. 6 years ago on Google
    Best museum in London - if not the UK

  • 5/5 David H. 6 years ago on Google
    Incredibly interesting and well organised

  • 5/5 Bolza 6 years ago on Google
    It's a once in a lifetime experience!

  • 5/5 Max E. 6 years ago on Google
    Spooky and scary place. Not for anxious ones. Great dive in in history of medicine.

  • 5/5 Denis C. 6 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Very special collection, better to have a good stomach ... (Original) Collection très spéciale, mieux vaut avoir l'estomac bien accroché...

  • 4/5 Glauco S. 6 years ago on Google
    A different kind of museum...really interesting

  • 5/5 Louise H. 6 years ago on Google
    It's a great museum, but is now closed due to renovation work. Will apparently reopen after two years. Wonderful and quirky!

  • 5/5 Veronika (Silly Little S. 6 years ago on Google
    Visiting this museum was a great experience for everyone who is into surgery but also zoology, as they feature many interesting specimens from the animal world. Photographing the specimen is not permitted but they have a catalogue of many of their specimen with photos on their website. The staff were friendly and helpful.

  • 5/5 Emily H. 6 years ago on Google
    creepy but cool; an awesome experience but as always with museums and similar establishments, you can feel ill after a while due to the musty smell and the fact there are literal hundreds of sliced open foetuses in jars.

  • 5/5 Sasha M. 6 years ago on Google
    Closed for a few years now though

  • 5/5 Simon R. 6 years ago on Google
    Best museum in London.

  • 5/5 Katherine L. 6 years ago on Google
    I really loved this museum 😢 please come back soon!

  • 3/5 Richard B. 5 years ago on Google
    Currently closed till 2021

  • 1/5 Tla E. 4 years ago on Google
    The place is closed and they didn’t pother to announce it , uncaring staff

  • 4/5 Valor P. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) interesting museum of medicine (Original) interessante museo di medicina

  • 1/5 Fernando D. 4 years ago on Google
    Closed until 2021

  • 3/5 Ιωάννης �. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Interesting museum but rebuilt for the next two years .. (Original) Ενδιαφέρον μουσείο αλλά ανακατασκευάζεται για τα επόμενα δύο χρόνια..

  • 1/5 Michael C. 4 years ago on Google
    CLOSED not open as indicated on Google Maps

  • 5/5 Michael S. 4 years ago on Google
    I visited the museum some time ago. Its a very impressive collection of specimens and artifices. Also, some interesting art too. I would love to see it again.

  • 5/5 Cable Z. 6 years ago on Google
    Such a cool place, although not for the squeamish!

  • 5/5 Yasmina C. 1 year ago on Google
    I went there years ago and it was one of the best museums I went to. I really really loved it. I spent hours there, so many things to look at. It is not for the faint of heart though! Plus it’s free so overall just great!

  • 4/5 Martin 7 years ago on Google
    It's definitely an interesting place to visit. The displays with explanation of history, procedures etc. are very good. The jars themselves are fascinating and feel a bit overwhelming in their quantity rather than content. If you can attend a tour as you may gain a better understanding of some of the samples. Allow two hours and I would suggest you start on the second floor right away and work your way down.

  • 5/5 Dan E. 7 years ago on Google
    Fascinating museum with thousands of animal and human specimens. Really thorough examination of anatomy as well as various illnesses and uncommon disorders. Museum is completely free and staff are helpful and knowledgeable. Regular talks are also held (once again completely free). Overall an educational and enjoyable day out but perhaps not one for small children or the weak stomached.

  • 5/5 natalie rochelle g. 3 years ago on Google
    My favourite museum full of lots of different items relating to medicine/dentistry that I've not seen anywhere else

  • 1/5 Blindly G. 3 years ago on Google
    Thieves paradise. Stolen skeleton from Co Tyrone.

  • 5/5 Gil B. 7 years ago on Google
    One of my favourite museums in London by far. Fantastic displays and great for people who want to see something a little different.

  • 5/5 Jenny R. 7 years ago on Google
    Really interesting place . Managed to visit for the first time before it closes in May 17 for three years . Sooooo much to see , mix of human and animal dissections . Some history of the place . Well worth a visit .

  • 4/5 H T. 6 years ago on Google
    A unique museum! Very interesting!

  • 5/5 David W. 6 years ago on Google
    Amazing museum of all that is strange and unusual in biology and physiology. Unfortunately it is closing for refurbishment for 3 years from May 2017

  • 5/5 JC C. 4 years ago on Google
    The Royal College of Surgeons boasts unrivalled collections of human and non-human anatomical and pathological specimens, models, instruments, painting and sculptures that reveal the art and science of surgery from the 17th century to the present day. Read on to find out about the individual collections’ history, highlights and unique treasures.

  • 5/5 John A. 6 years ago on Google
    Fabulous!

  • 5/5 John F. 6 years ago on Google
    Learn about yourself

  • 5/5 Ceri O. 6 years ago on Google
    Fascinating anatomy museum. Now closed until autumn 2020 for refurbishment.

  • 4/5 DEE S. 6 years ago on Google
    Great experience. I've been here 4 times now and it's been quite enlightening each time to read something new about the exhibits in jars. However the museum is now closed till late 2019 I believe.

  • 5/5 Dominic S. 6 years ago on Google
    Amazing place, shame it is closed whilst the redevelop for a while now though

  • 5/5 Eirys P. 6 years ago on Google
    Great for babies

  • 4/5 Emma N. 6 years ago on Google
    Accessibility here needs improving, but I hear they are working on this. The staff are great and the museum is an intriguing collection of medical history.

  • 5/5 Moork Z. 6 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A museum not known to tourists but full of locals. If you like Gothic horror, you can see first-hand what Victorian science was like. Very interesting and scary. (Original) Un museu gens conegut pels turistes però ple de locals. Si us agrada el terror gòtic,podreu veure de primera mà com era la ciència victoriana. Molt interessant i aterridor.

  • 5/5 Sébastien S. 6 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It is truly one of the most original museums that I have ever seen, and the entrance is free. It is really worth it to come and see an incredible diversity of animals and men kept in formaldehyde. stages of their development it is also a very popular place for medical students (Original) C'est vraiment un des musées les plus originaux que je n'ai jamais vu en plus l'entrée est gratuite cela vaut vraiment le coup de passer vous voir une incroyable diversité d'animaux et d'hommes conservés dans du formol à tous les stades de leur développement c'est d'ailleurs un endroit très prisé par les étudiants en médecine


Call +44 20 7405 3474 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom

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