The Foundling Museum

The Foundling Museum explores the history of the Foundling Hospital, the UK’s first children’s charity and first public art gallery. Discover thought-provoking exhibitions, contemporary art commissions, collection displays and historic archives, plus a lively programme of concerts, workshops, talks and special events, all enjoyed within beautiful 18th-century interiors.

The Foundling Museum explores the history of the Foundling Hospital, the UK’s first children’s charity and first public art gallery. Artists are central to the Hospital story and the spirit of its Artist Governors and supporters lives on in the work we do today. The Museum celebrates the power of individuals and the arts to change lives, and aims to inspire everyone to make a positive contribution to society.

The displays tell the story of the children who lived at the Foundling Hospital from the 1740s to the 1950s: how they came to be there, how they were looked after, and how the institution was established and run. It is also a story of how, from the very beginning, the Hospital was supported by London’s vibrant artistic community.

The Collections span the 18th to the 21st century, enabling visitors to make connections between the past and the present. Alongside archival items, discover paintings, sculptures and music by leading 18th-century artists and composers such as Hogarth, Gainsborough and Handel, as well as some of the UK’s most celebrated contemporary artists, set amongst furniture, clocks and original interiors.

Complementing the permanent displays are thought-provoking exhibitions, contemporary art commissions, and special events, all enjoyed within beautiful 18th-century interiors. Explore the intriguing story behind this important London institution, and the ways in which artists and children have inspired each other for over 275 years.

ACCESSIBILITY

The Foundling Museum is committed to making the facilities accessible to all visitors. Visitors with disabilities are entitled to the concessionary rate. Carers of those with disabilities are admitted free of charge.

The Museum has ramped access, a lift to all floors (width 80cm, height 200cm, length 140cm), accessible toilets and a cloakroom. A wheelchair, facilities for guide dogs, large print interpretation texts and magnifying glasses are also available on request.

Visitors with a Blue Badge for disabled parking may park outside the Museum on the single yellow line for up to 3 hours, or in the residents’ bays opposite the entrance. Blue Badges must be displayed at all times.

Should you have further access requirements please contact in advance on +44 (0)20 7841 3600 or make an enquiry online.

HOW TO REACH

The Museum is less than 5 minutes’ walk from Russell Square underground station. Alternatively, King’s Cross St Pancras and Euston stations are approximately 10 minutes’ walk from the Museum.

The nearest buses are the 7, 59, 68, 91, 98, 168 and 188 from Russell Square Station.

Cycle docking stations for Santander Cycle Hire are located at Brunswick Square and Russell Square Station. For visitors wishing to travel by car there is an NCP carpark at The Brunswick Shopping Centre.

ADMISSION

Includes collections and exhibitions

Adults
£10.50* / £9.50

Concessions**
£8.25* / £7.50

Free for 21 & under, Foundling Friends & National Art Pass holders