Old Operating Theatre Museum: A Glimpse into Surgical History in London

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Overview

Nestled within the historic St. Thomas's Church in London, the Old Operating Theatre Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into the evolution of surgery. As the oldest operating theater in Europe, this museum showcases an array of exhibits that date back to the 19th century, including early anesthesia methods and rudimentary surgical instruments. Exhibit highlights include jars of preserved organs and tools used in childbirth, provoking a range of emotions from intrigue to unease. Additionally, displays dedicated to the pioneering work of Florence Nightingale illustrate nursing advancements through the ages. While the museum provides a unique and interactive experience, it is best suited for adult visitors, as some displays may be unsettling.

Photo of Old Operating Theatre Museum
Photo of Old Operating Theatre Museum
Photo of Old Operating Theatre Museum
Photo of Old Operating Theatre Museum
Opening hours
  • Sunday 10:30 - 17:00
  • Monday 10:30 - 17:00
  • Tuesday 10:30 - 17:00
  • Wednesday 10:30 - 17:00

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • Address9a St Thomas St, London SE1 9RY, UK
  • Phone+44 20 7188 2679

Reviews

Sarah Thompson
United Kingdom
5
A captivating spot at the top of a narrow spiral staircase. We enjoyed an engaging talk in the operating theatre and then had time to explore the herb garret museum, which while small, was full of rich medical history! The only minor downside was not having enough time in the actual museum, as there was much to see and read.
Emily Johnson
United Kingdom
5
Definitely worth the visit! The short introduction to St. Thomas' hospital history is lovely. The museum is a treasure trove! The instruments, pictures, and descriptions of various procedures, herbs, medicines, and anaesthetics were intriguing. My favorite parts were the recreation of the apothecary and the pathological organs. The interior has a rustic charm that feels almost magical. While kids might not find it as engaging, for adults, it is a must-see, regardless of medical knowledge.
Ayaan Khan
United Kingdom
4
The Old Operating Theatre Museum is a fascinating and unique journey into the past. The museum offers a rare insight into the history of medicine and surgery, showcasing intriguing artifacts and well-preserved displays. The highlight is the eerie yet captivating operating theatre, providing a vivid perspective on 19th-century surgery. The knowledgeable staff were enthusiastic, offering engaging explanations and answering questions in great detail. The only downside is that the space is small, and the steep spiral staircase up to the museum could be a bit of a challenge for some visitors. Nevertheless, it's a hidden gem for history and medical enthusiasts, definitely worth visiting!
Sophia Almeida
United Kingdom
5
The museum may be small, but it is highly interesting. It takes about 40 minutes to view everything at a relaxed pace. The surprise shop is compact, but you can see all its offerings in just a few minutes. The experience is quite enjoyable, and you can learn a lot about various diseases and the past treatments used, presented in a fun and clear manner. I highly recommend a visit.
Irina Petrov
United Kingdom
5
A hidden gem near the London Borough market. It's a small place, but it's filled with fascinating items and amazing stories. If you want to learn more about how diseases were treated in past centuries, this is definitely the place for you. Highly recommended!