Central to the educational work of the Museum of Costume in Bath is a unique collection of more than 30,000 items of original dress spanning four centuries.

The extensive exhibition galleries at the Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street in the centre of Bath, cover the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, with more than 150 complete outfits on display. The collections are officially Designated of national and international significance by the Government. Nearby, the Museum of Costume's study facilities offer direct access to original patterns, dress samples and supporting photographic material. These two facilities make the Museum of Costume a primary reference facility for students of costume and fashion throughout the world.

The displays start with a magnificent complete dress dating from 1660 and some rare Elizabethan garments and are arranged chronologically in three extensive galleries. These include fashions for men and women throughout the Georgian period, a sumptuous display of exquisitely-made Victorian dress and highlights of twentieth-century fashion. One of the strengths of the Museum of Costume is its modern collection including works by the world's top designers - Jean Muir, John Galliano and Alexander McQueen, to name but three. In addition, a special exhibition every year is included in the price.

You may have a general interest in history, design or fashion, or you may need specific information on a certain style or period; the Museum of Costume will satisfy both needs. To plan your visit, click "study services" on the Museum of Costume website: www.museumofcostume.co.uk

The Museum of Costume's schools programme is just as extensive as the facilities for adults. It includes guided tours, object-handling sessions and illustrated talks suitable for KS1 to "A" level. Details of specific session topics are contained in the "Education at the Museum of Costume" website pages.

A tour of the Museum of Costume takes 1½ to 2 hours, with the option of a teaching session in addition to this. The Museum is open seven days a week throughout the year and there is a coach dropping-off point immediately outside. Every visitor has the use of a free audioguide in a choice of seven languages.

There is a highly favourable rate for groups of 20 or more children or young people up to the age of 16 (inclusive) and entry in the autumn and winter terms is cheaper than in the summer term. See our website under "planning your visit" for details.


For further information, visit our website at www.museumofcostume.co.uk, contact us on +44 (0)1225 477785 or write to us at the Museum of Costume, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH.