Description
Barts North Wing is a stunning, award-winning historic haven located in the heart of the City of London, offering families a peaceful indoor escape from the hustle and bustle of West Smithfield. Situated at the core of St Bartholomew’s Hospital—the oldest working hospital in England—this exceptionally restored 18th-century landmark serves as a magnificent educational rest stop between busier urban explorations. If you are looking for the best things to do with kids in the City of London and the Farringdon or Barbican area, this cultural treasure provides a perfect pocket of history to recharge your batteries.
Visiting this beautifully maintained architecture is completely free, making it an excellent budget-friendly addition to a day out in central London. There are no entry fees or standard tickets required to admire the magnificent artwork and grand historic interiors, allowing families to step inside a quiet paradise without spending a penny. Following its extensive multi-million-pound restoration and conservation project, it provides a spectacular, stress-free spot to let children unwind, sit in a glorious setting, and absorb centuries of city history.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines rich Georgian architecture with spectacular fine art, this historic wing fits the bill perfectly. It allows parents to relax while children safely observe the massive murals, look up at the spectacular golden ceilings, and learn about the hospital's 900-year legacy of healing. Its central location near major transport links means you can effortlessly weave it into any central London sightseeing itinerary.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What makes Barts North Wing unique?
- Located inside England's oldest hospital: The site forms part of St Bartholomew’s Hospital, which has provided continuous patient care on the exact same spot since its foundation in 1123.
- The majestic William Hogarth Murals: The grand staircase features two massive, priceless Biblical paintings created by legendary artist William Hogarth specifically to support the hospital poor.
- A James Gibbs architectural masterwork: Designed in the 1730s by the renowned architect James Gibbs, the Grade I listed building reflects the pinnacle of historic Georgian design.
- Fictional Sherlock Holmes connection: Right outside the wing, the hospital grounds mark the legendary literary setting where Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson met for the very first time.
Top Highlights
- The Hogarth Stair: The monumental grand staircase is completely covered in dramatic, sweeping murals painted by William Hogarth in the 1730s. The two main pieces—The Pool of Bethesda and The Good Samaritan—were designed to inspire charity and offer an amazing visual experience for kids.
- The Great Hall: This spectacular, soaring banqueting space is one of the most magnificent historic interiors in London. Families can look up to admire the meticulously conserved, intricately gilded ceiling and view historic portraits dating back across the centuries.
- St Bartholomew's Hospital Museum: Situated directly under the North Wing archway, this fascinating archive space tells the story of nine centuries of healthcare. It displays an array of historic surgical instruments, medieval archives, and unique objects that bring old medical history to life.
- The Henry VIII Gatehouse: Located right by the wing, this striking stone entrance gate dates back to 1702 and stands as a monument to the Tudor king. It features the only public statue of King Henry VIII remaining anywhere in London.
- The Hospital Square & Fountain: Just outside the North Wing doors lies the tranquil central hospital square, featuring a beautiful historic fountain added in 1859. It provides a calm outdoor zone where children can sit safely away from heavy street traffic.
Beyond the Main Attraction: Because Barts North Wing sits in a deeply historic corner of London, families can easily explore the fascinating sights surrounding it. Heading just a brief walk away brings you to the ancient Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great, London's oldest surviving parish church. A short stroll north leads straight into the bustling tracks of Farringdon and the creative cultural hubs of the Barbican Centre. For older kids interested in culinary history or looking for family-friendly dining spots, the vibrant Victorian canopies of Smithfield Market are located right on the doorstep.
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