Herschel Museum of Astronomy
Step into the Georgian home where Uranus was discovered! Explore the life and work of astronomer William Herschel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Herschel Museum of Astronomy
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the Georgian home where Uranus was discovered! Explore the life and work of astronomer William Herschel.
"Bath's hidden gem: a fascinating glimpse into astronomical history with incredibly passionate staff."
🎯 Engage with Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask questions – they make the visit truly special!
✨ Free Re-entry
Your ticket is valid for multiple visits within a year! Great for locals or repeat visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Uranus Discovery Spot
Back Garden
Stand where William Herschel first spotted the planet Uranus in 1781, a moment that doubled the known solar system.
Herschel's Workshop
Workshop Room
Explore the very space where Herschel crafted his groundbreaking telescopes, the tools of his celestial discoveries.
Star Carpeted Stairs
Staircase
A charming detail that adds a touch of cosmic wonder to your journey through the museum's historic floors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover a Georgian Gem
Book Ahead for Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Engage with Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask questions – they make the visit truly special!
✨ Free Re-entry
Your ticket is valid for multiple visits within a year! Great for locals or repeat visitors.
🔭 See the Discovery Spot
Don't miss the garden marker showing where Uranus was discovered.
🎶 Music & Science
Discover the Herschels' dual talents as astronomers and musicians. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Engage with Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask questions – they make the visit truly special!
✨ Free Re-entry
Your ticket is valid for multiple visits within a year! Great for locals or repeat visitors.
🔭 See the Discovery Spot
Don't miss the garden marker showing where Uranus was discovered.
🎶 Music & Science
Discover the Herschels' dual talents as astronomers and musicians.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible on foot in Bath, located on a quiet residential street.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Herschel Museum of Astronomy as a hidden gem, highlighting the incredibly knowledgeable and passionate staff who bring the history of William Herschel and his discoveries to life. Its intimate setting in a historic Georgian house offers a unique and engaging experience, making it a standout attraction in Bath.
"Visited the Herschel Museum during our day trip to Bath. Hidden away we were greeted warmly by the two gentlemen working there that day. We were told there were no tours however one of the gentlemen took it upon himself to get to know us and show us around each room across all three floors. He was super knowledgeable and answered all our questions. What an interesting life story! Whether you’re interested in astronomy, history, both or neither - this is a fantastic place to spend an hour or so. Could it be Bath’s hidden tourist gem? Quite possibly."
G Christopher
"I was only in Bath for 2 days and I’m so glad I went here! It was really great and I would recommend this for anyone interested in astronomy, science communication, or science in general. I read everything there was to read, all the descriptions and notes, and they were so informative.
The woman who gave the introduction (I think her name was Charlotte, I hope I remembered correctly) was also very helpful. She was very jolly and energetic and made me excited about going around the museum. I also had some further questions and she answered them enthusiastically.
Additionally, I liked the star carpet on the stairs! Please visit the museum if you can, it’s one of the highlights of my quick Bath trip. I wish I had taken more photos."
C D
"Very nice place. My 11 year old child liked it. There is a small shop on the territory - you can buy books and souvenirs.
An interesting detail - if you buy a ticket for the first time - you can visit the museum several more times during the year with this ticket!!! The cost is only 12.50 for an adult, a child is free."
Julie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is located at 19 New King Street in Bath. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center, making it a convenient stop during a day trip.
Parking in central Bath can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or park in one of the city's main car parks and walk to the museum.
Yes, Bath has a central bus and train station. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the Herschel Museum of Astronomy.
The museum is housed in a historic Georgian building, which may present some accessibility challenges. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
Many visitors combine a trip to the Herschel Museum with other Bath attractions like the Roman Baths or the Jane Austen Centre, as they are all within walking distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are very reasonable, with adult admission around £12.50. Children often get free entry, making it a great value for families.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets upon arrival. However, booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure your spot.
The museum offers excellent value, and your ticket often allows for free re-entry for a full year, which is a fantastic perk.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Herschel Museum of Astronomy website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking a time slot can help manage visitor numbers and ensure a smoother experience. Check their website for details.
🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience
You'll explore the Georgian house where William Herschel lived and worked, see exhibits on his astronomical discoveries (including Uranus!), and learn about his life as a musician. +1
Most visitors spend around an hour to an hour and a half exploring the museum, especially if they engage with the knowledgeable staff.
While formal tours might not always be scheduled, the staff are incredibly enthusiastic and often provide informal, highly informative guided experiences.
Yes, children often enjoy the museum, especially learning about the discovery of Uranus and seeing the historical house. The star carpet is a fun detail.
The garden is significant as it's the exact spot where William Herschel stood when he discovered the planet Uranus in 1781. There's a marker indicating the location.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions within certain exhibits.
Key spots include the garden marker for Uranus discovery, the workshop, and the unique star-patterned carpet on the stairs.
Flash photography is often discouraged in museums to protect delicate artifacts. Please be mindful of this and use natural light or your phone's camera settings accordingly.
The museum is located on a charming Georgian street, so capturing its exterior architecture can make for a lovely photograph.
While the museum itself is about historical astronomy, local astronomy groups sometimes host events where astrophotography is a focus, showcasing the night sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key attractions for younger visitors include the garden spot where Uranus was found, the chance to see historical telescopes, and the fun star-carpeted stairs. The museum's manageable size means kids won't get overwhelmed, and the free re-entry offer is a bonus for families who might need a break and a return visit.
🧑🏫 Science & History Enthusiasts
+1The museum provides a detailed look at the tools and environment that facilitated these discoveries. The knowledgeable staff are a significant asset, offering in-depth explanations and answering complex questions, making it a rich learning experience. The fact that it's located in Herschel's actual home adds an unparalleled layer of authenticity and historical immersion.
🚶 Day-Trippers to Bath
Allow about an hour to fully appreciate the museum. Its intimate setting and the engaging staff ensure a memorable experience without consuming too much of your valuable day-trip time. The reasonable entry fee and the year-long ticket validity are excellent value for a short visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Herschel Legacy: Astronomy and Music
+2Beyond his astronomical pursuits, William Herschel was also a talented musician, a passion he shared with his sister, Caroline Herschel. Caroline was a pioneering astronomer in her own right, cataloging nebulae and comets, and is often considered the first professional female astronomer. The museum highlights this dual legacy, showcasing how science and art were intertwined in the Herschel household. Visitors can learn about their musical careers alongside their celestial explorations, providing a richer context for their lives.
+1Exploring the museum allows you to walk through the rooms where telescopes were built and observations were made. You can stand in the garden where Uranus was first spotted and appreciate the dedication it took to pursue such groundbreaking work in the 18th century. The William Herschel Museum offers a unique blend of scientific history and personal narrative, making it a compelling visit for anyone interested in the stars or the history of science.
Experiencing the Herschel Museum: What to Expect
Key highlights include standing in the garden at the precise spot where William Herschel made his historic discovery of Uranus, marked by a subtle indicator on the ground.
Inside, you can explore the rooms where he built his telescopes and conducted his observations. The museum also features a charming star-patterned carpet on the stairs, a delightful touch that adds to the cosmic theme. Many visitors consider the Herschel Museum a hidden gem in Bath, offering a unique blend of science, history, and heritage. Its location on a quiet residential street adds to its charm. The museum's commitment to sharing its story, combined with its accessible pricing and the unique perk of a year-long ticket validity, makes it a highly recommended stop for anyone visiting Bath.
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