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Bloomsbury is central London’s relaxed and leafy neighbourhood, rich in history and culture with plenty to occupy your time. True to its past as a centre for the literary and academic elite, many of the neighbourhood’s attractions cater to those with a thirst for knowledge.

Easily identifiable from its classic portico facade juxtaposed by the now iconic Foster & Partners designed glass roof, the @britishmuseum is the star attraction sitting on Bloomsbury’s southern boundary and drawing visitors from across the world with its dedicated exhibits of human history, art and culture. But this globally renowned public museum shouldn’t be the only one on Bloomsbury’s must-visit list.

There’s an esoteric selection of alternative museums and venues showcasing arts and culture, from a former horse hospital to a museum full of quirky (and playable) arcade games, so be sure to check out our shortlist of Bloomsbury’s best alternative museums when planning your next cultural adventure.

Sir John Soane’s Museum

Named after its architect and resident Sir John Soane, the building and its interior remains virtually untouched since his death in 1837. With a permanent display of over 30,000 artworks, artefacts and architectural models collected, created and curated by Soane during his lifetime, this is a legitimate time warp to a bygone era.

Arguably one of the greatest neo-classical British architects, Soane’s work included a number of landmarks including the Bank of England and Dulwich Picture Gallery, but 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields was his personal project and despite being flanked by impressive period architecture on either side and around the square, the contrasting brickwork, grand statues and signature bold arched windows make the building stand out as an architectural marvel of the time.

13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, WC2A 3BP | soane.org

The Foundling Museum

Situated on Brunswick Square to the north of Coram’s Fields, The @foundlingmuseum is home to not one, but two spectacular art collections spanning the 18th to 20th century, with works from notable artists including Thomas Gainsborough, William Hogarth, Joshua Reynolds, sculptures from Roubillac and a collection of scores from Handel, as well as contemporary works from artists including Tracy Emin.

Occupying the original site of The Foundling Hospital, the museum celebrates the work of philanthropist Thomas Coram, who sought to bring about change for the thousands of vulnerable children being abandoned on the streets of London during the 18th Century. Prominent artists of the period donated works, with the money raised from exhibitions funding the hospital in their efforts to care for children at risk of abandonment. Not only did this improve the children’s lives, but effectively created Britain’s first public art gallery which, along with the Coram children’s charity, is still an important institution to this day.

40 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AZ | foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Hunterian Museum

The squeamish should look away now, but fans of a bit of gore should have this at the top of their list! Lining the walls of the @hunterianmuseum are over 2,000 medical specimens collected by eighteenth‑century surgeon and anatomist John Hunter.

Located within the Royal College of Surgeons, this recently refurbished museum showcases the country’s largest public display of human anatomy alongside instruments, equipment, models and paintings. Row upon row of labelled jars contain perfectly preserved specimens from tumours to embryonic crocodiles ensuring a visit here is far from dull!

43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, WC2A 3PE | hunterianmuseum.org

Novelty Automation

More an interactive games centre than a museum, @novelty_automation will be a sure fire hit for those seeking something a little more ‘alternative’ from their cultural hit. Bellyaches are guaranteed from the plethora of frankly bonkers games and experiences ranging from an ‘auto-frisk’ (yes, it does tickle) to a ‘micro‑break’ that enables you to take a holiday without the need to leave the comfort of your armchair.

This eclectic collection of novelty games and experiences come from the slightly bonkers mind of cartoonist, engineer and inventor Tim Hunkin, who is also responsible for the well known ‘Under The Pier Show’ including similar crazy machines at Southwold Pier in Suffolk.

1A Princeton Street, WC1R 4AY | novelty-automation.com

The Horse Hospital

Despite the name, this isn’t a one stop shop for equine ailments, in fact quite the opposite. Located in a quaint mews tucked behind Russell Square tube station,  @thehorsehospital dubs itself  ‘London’s longest running, truly independent arts venue’. 

The Grade II listed building is of significant historical importance being first constructed in 1797 and the only surviving example of inner city ‘double-decker’ stabling remaining in London. Today however, this three-storey arts and exhibition space celebrates counter‑culture, the underground and the avant‑garde, hosting a rich and varied program of talks, exhibitions and screenings throughout the year attracting over 5000 visitors annually.

Whether it’s art, film, fashion, literature or music, since 1993 The Horse Hospital has offered a varied and eclectic schedule of events covering the entire creative spectrum. It really is a one-of-a kind venue that has gained a legendary status in creative and media circles and not just in London, but the world over.

Colonnade, WC1N 1JD | thehorsehospital.com

Intrigued by life in Bloomsbury? Then discover more with our helpful neighbourhood guide.