The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret

Museum
★ 4.9 (56K+ reviews) • 232K+ booked
Step into a world where history and medicine intertwine at The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret in London. Nestled in the attic of St. Thomas’ Church, this hidden gem offers a rare glimpse into the fascinating world of 19th-century surgery. Just a short walk from London Bridge station and the iconic Shard, this unique museum showcases one of the oldest surviving operating theatres in the UK, providing an unforgettable experience for those eager to explore the medical practices of the past. Discover the intriguing blend of surgical history and herbal medicine in a setting that has remained largely unchanged for over a century. With live amputation demonstrations and a rich tapestry of stories, The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret is a must-visit for anyone captivated by the history of medicine.
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9a St Thomas St, London SE1 9RY, United Kingdom

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The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret Reviews

4.9 /5
56K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Andree ***
11 May
Highly recommended! Spent 3 hours there so I suggest to go in the morning there are more people during the afternoon
Klook用戶
8 May
The three-day "London Pass" saved us a lot of expensive admission tickets and is highly recommended.
KIMBERLYNHAZEL *******
6 May
The Tower of London was such a fascinating place to explore! Seeing the Crown Jewels up close was a highlight, and the Yeoman Warder tour was super entertaining and informative. There’s so much history packed into one place definitely worth the visit. Entry with the Klook voucher was smooth and hassle-free
2+
KIMBERLYNHAZEL *******
6 May
Great experience at Tower Bridge! The views from the top were amazing, and the glass floor added a fun twist. The exhibition was interesting and gave a good look into the bridge’s history. Everything was well-organized and easy to access with the Klook voucher. Definitely recommend if you’re visiting London
1+
클룩 회원
6 May
This is a great option to make your trip more energetic and fulfilling. We highly recommend the Shard with its fantastic night view, the London Eye, a must-see in London, and the Uber boat ride across the Thames River (available only with the All-Inclusive Pass). If you are a football fan, you can also take a tour of the football stadium with this pass.
2+
Ishi ***
6 May
I went to London for work and happened to be looking for a show I could go to on the day, so I bought it about half a day before. The voucher arrived quickly, but I couldn't find the seat number, and I couldn't find it even after looking for it in my email or in the app. Finally, when I opened the confirmation information in the app, the seat number was displayed. I thought it would be easier to understand if the seat number was displayed on the voucher. The performance was wonderful and I enjoyed Michael's singing and dancing. I would like to go again if I have the opportunity.
Nima **********
6 May
recieved the voucher immediately. good thing is that it can be redeemed for next 2 years and is flexible. looking forward to use it in my future travel as it has quite a lot of choices!
Andree ***
6 May
Highly recommended! Very beautiful church! Make sure you go up the top to watch the view, definitely worth the climb!!

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

The Old Operating Theatre

Step back in time to the oldest surviving operating theatre in the UK, where the echoes of 19th-century surgical practices still linger. This historic site, rediscovered in 1956, offers a rare glimpse into a world before anaesthetics and antiseptics. Imagine the scene as medical students once did, gathered under the skylight to witness surgeries that were as much a spectacle as they were a necessity. It's a captivating journey into the past that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for modern medicine.

The Herb Garret

Climb the spiral staircase of St. Thomas’ Church to uncover the Herb Garret, a hidden gem that once served as a vital part of 18th-century medical care. This atmospheric attic, filled with the scent of dried herbs, tells the story of natural remedies and the apothecaries who crafted them. As you explore, you'll gain insight into the herbal practices that were essential to patient care, offering a fascinating contrast to today's pharmaceutical advancements.

Live Demonstrations

Prepare to be enthralled by live demonstrations that bring the history of surgery to life. These gripping sessions, featuring tales of operations performed without the comforts of modern anaesthetics, offer a vivid portrayal of the challenges faced by surgeons and their patients. Led by knowledgeable presenters like Dr. Monica Walker, these demonstrations provide a unique opportunity to learn about the evolution of medical practices in a way that's both educational and engaging.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret is a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of medical science. As you explore, you'll uncover the challenges faced by 19th-century surgeons and patients, and witness the gradual advancements in medical practices. Nestled in a building with roots tracing back to a medieval church, the museum is part of the London Museums of Health & Medicine and is recognized as a Grade II* building on the National Heritage List for England. Established in 1822, the operating theatre itself is a remarkable testament to the era's medical history and the evolution of surgical practices. This cultural gem also highlights the role of women in medicine, making it a significant landmark in London's rich historical tapestry.

Community Outreach

Thanks to a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant, the Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret is expanding its community outreach efforts. This initiative is designed to engage with the local community and provide educational opportunities for inner-city youth. By doing so, the museum ensures that its stories and lessons continue to inspire and educate future generations, making it a vibrant part of the community.