The Museum of East Asian Art
Just a few metres off The Circus in central Bath, is one of the most unique art collections in England – The Museum of East Asian Art. Situated in a restored Georgian house, the Museum attracts the interest of students, scholars and tourists, and also has a loyal local following.
However there is no doubt that there are many who may be interested in such an exquisite collection, but are simply unaware that it is here. This unique museum houses a fine collection of ceramics, jades, bronzes and much more from China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia.
Since opening to the public in April 1993, the Museum has gone from strength to strength, and has become one of the most extensive collections of East Asian art outside London. With a collection of almost 2,000 objects, ranging in date from c.5000 BC to the present day, the Museum offers its visitors a wonderful insight into the art and cultures of China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia. With one of the most comprehensive jade collections in the UK and some of the finest bamboo carvings in Europe, the collection uncovers the finest achievements in East Asian craftsmanship.
The Museum’s excellent and wide ranging collection is interpreted in a lively and innovative manner. Particular attention is given to the Museum’s educational role, with special exhibitions, an active events programme and new publications designed to encourage a greater understanding of East Asian art and cultures.
History
The Museum was founded in 1990 by Brian McElney OBE. Brian spent his entire working life practicing law in Hong Kong and it was during this time that he was drawn to the beauty of Chinese art. In 1958 he bought his first piece, an ivory goat and kid, after which Brian’s collection grew to include jades, ceramics, scholar’s studio objects and bronzes.
After his retirement from law in 1983, Brian returned to England and procured the funds for the restoration and refurbishment of the Georgian building that houses the Museum. Mr McElney generously donated his private collection to form the Museum, which he had created as a UK educational charity.
Why Bath?
Bath is one of the best preserved 18th century cities in the world. It is one of only a few cities in the world designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. Attractions include the spectacular Royal Crescent and The Circus as well as the Roman Baths. The City attracts both national and international tourists, making it the second most visited city in Britain. Bath is ideally situated geographically on the River Avon, and being surrounded by hills and water, it conforms to rules of feng shui for a providential site; an appropriate location for the future prosperity of a collection reflecting the art and cultures of East Asia.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Opening hours:
Monday Closed all day (except some Bank Holidays)
Tuesday - Saturday 10am until 5pm
Sunday 12 noon until 5pm
Last admission to the museum is at 4.30pm.
Admission charges:
The museum is a registered educational charity, the charges below assist with the funding of the museum.
| Adults |
£5.00 |
| Seniors citizens |
£4.00 |
| Students |
£3.50 |
| Children (13-18yrs) |
£3.50 |
| Children (6-12yrs) |
£2.00 |
| Families(2 adults + 2 children 6-18) |
£12.00 |
| Children under 6 |
Free |
Museum Friend : Free with membership card
Members of the National Art Collections Fund : Free with membership card
Friends of the Oriental Museum (Durham) : Free with membership card
BANES Discovery Card Holder : £1.00 off admission
Museum shop entrance : Free
Entrance to the Museum is free to Discovery Card holders during Open
Walking from Bath train or coach station
It is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Bath Spa railway station and Avon Street Coach Park.
The Museum is located close to Bath’s famous Circus and the Assembly Rooms.
Bath is a superb city to explore on foot and en route to the Museum you will come across several little boutiques and coffee shops which contribute to the unique atmosphere of this famous city.
Car
If you are coming by car, there is some on-street parking, however if you are planning to spend the day in Bath the nearest place to park is in Charlotte Street, just off Queen Square.
This is one of the largest car parks in Bath and is within easy walking distance of the Museum and the City Centre.
Bus
Alternatively, the three Park and Ride facilities on the outskirts of the city provide reliable services to various drop-off points in the centre.
Lansdown Park and Ride, situated to the north of the city, has a convenient drop-off point in Queen Square. Local bus services also stop nearby.
Coach
Coaches may set down and pick up directly outside the museum but must then move on.
Parking is available at Avon Street Coach Park.
Tour bus
If you are planning to take an open-top tour bus, why not alight at the Assembly Rooms and pay us a visit?
Alternatively jump off at the Royal Crescent and take in the small antique shops situated on the short walk to the Museum.
Accessibility is a key priority, to ensure that all our visitors receive the same level of satisfaction. For those visitors with particular requirements there is a selection of facilities to make their visit more enjoyable.
Illustrated gallery guides
Magnifying glasses
Access guides
Object handing collection for visitors with visual impairments*
Guided tours *
Large print labels
Lifts for easy access to all floors
Wheelchair available
Accessible lavatories
Museum welcome guide and hearing dogs and they can accompany you at all times
*Please contact the Museum in advance.
Address:
The Museum of East Asian Art
12 Bennett Street
Bath
BA1 2QJ
UK