Foundling Museum

One of London's hidden treasures, the Foundling Museum has recently been sensitively refurbished to tell the poignant story of London's first home for abandoned children. One of London's hidden treasures, the Foundling Museum has recently been sensitively refurbished to tell the poignant story of London's first home for abandoned children. The Foundling Hospital, established by Captain Thomas Coram in 1739, was also Britain's first public exhibition space for artists instigated by William Hogarth, and the venue for Handel's regular benefit concerts of Messiah.

Situated in Brunswick Square, close to St Pancras on the former site of the Foundling Hospital, the museum tells the fascinating story of England's first childcare charity established by Captain Thomas Coram in 1739. The display is a poignant reminder of the 27, 000 children who passed through the hospital until it closed in 1950s and provides guests with an insight into a remarkable part of England's history.

The building retains some of the features from the original hospital built in the 1740s and houses England's first public art collection which was the forerunner to the Royal Academy.

The magnificent Court Room was designed by William Hogarth as the showcase for British Art and remains one of London's finest rococo interiors. It has been used for most magnificent intimate dinners today.

The Picture Gallery displays the splendid Foundling art collection including works by Hogarth, Gainsborough and Reynolds. It provides a unique backdrop for exclusive entertaining and spectacular events.

The first successful performance of Handel's Messiah was held in the chapel of the Foundling Hospital and the Gerald Coke Handel Collection now displays the largest private collection of Handel memorabilia including his will and a fair copy of Messiah. Guests are captivated by the works in the collection during receptions.

Events held in the Foundling Museum bring all three strands of it's history together culminating in a versatile venue for small dinners, larger banquets and receptions alike.

Being an independent charity with no state funding, the museum relies heavily on income from events. This enables to museum to open to the public but especially to provide free access to all children with a range of workshops for children from all walks of life, many of whom may not otherwise be able to access these services.

Visuals: Joanna Plumbe Photography and Simon Marshall Johnston.

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