Bethlem Museum of the Mind
- Medical history enthusiasts
- Art lovers
- Families with children
What Visitors Say
I visited on the day when they had the Bethlem Gallery Festival. On arrival at the museum, I was greeted by friendly staff and I got talking to a lovely volunteer called Richard while waiting for my friend. The artists' exhibitions on the lower level and museum on the first floor were well laid out. There were videos, interactive exhibits, artworks from former patients, history of mental health and Bethlem, plus lots more. I found especially interesting the dogmas display. The diagnosis of psychiatric symptoms has come a long way - it was interesting to see how it has evolved for the better. However, what is alarming is the increase of medication in modern life compared to how symptoms were treated earlier in the century. One exhibit in the form of a book showed patients (early 19th century) who were admitted with their release dates. Many were released within a matter of months - certainly not years. It'll be interesting to know what treatment those patients were given. Some exhibits alluded to the fact that medication isn't always the solution. We spent over an hour in the museum. If it weren't for the Gallery Festival, we may have stayed a bit longer. The Gallery Festival event was lovely! To see some of the patients performing was heart warming. The choirs were also a lovely addition to what turned out to be a really lovely day. I would recommend a visit to Bethlem Museum of the Mind. It will change the way you view people.
Spent the longest time I have spent visiting a museum, here. Fascinating insight into the mind and the history of its study and how to help people. Phenomenal Artists, flaming atmosphere and very knowledgeable staff.
Really enjoyed this museum. I never knew it existed before today but I definitely recommend. There was a lot of information and linked very nicely to psychology, especially the cognitive part of psychology. Overall, this was a very interesting museum which is full of detailed history about mental illness. There are some interactive things to do there as well and it was bigger than I expected it to be, which was also nice. I definitely recommend this for people who are interested in psychology of the mind and mental illness. It was also not too busy when I went so you have space to look around in depth.
I found this museum to be really interesting. The information boards are well written and the films are all worth watching. Lots of paintings, photos and objects to help you understand the history and stories of people who have been connected to Bethlam. I would also like to mention the two staff members that spent time talking to me. Pam who welcomed me on arrival and Sue upstairs. Both were friendly and very knowledgeable.
Lovely museum, free entrance, beautiful building and a great overview of the ever changing treatment and perception of mental illnesses and different treatments
Highlights
Patient Artists
Artworks reveal lived experience and creative brilliance beyond diagnosis.Expression as evidence.
Galleries
History of ‘Bedlam’
Tracks treatments and attitudes from stigma to support.From spectacle to care.
Intro displays
Temporary Exhibitions
Topical shows link mental health to justice, dreams, work and community.Timely themes, human stakes.
Changing programme
Opening Hours
Fun Facts
Housed in an Art-Deco building at the world’s oldest psychiatric hospital—place and subject align.
Free admission with welcoming volunteers; content can be emotionally intense—pace yourself.
