Photo credit: © Matthew Andrews
We are delighted to share that Barts North Wing has reopened its doors, allowing visitors to see James Gibbs’ magnificent Great Hall and the breathtaking Hogarth Stair.
About
Following a year-long restoration, Barts North Wing reopened its doors last month.
Barts, or St Bartholomew’s Hospital, is the oldest hospital in Britain. It was founded by Rahere in 1123 following a visitation from St Bartholomew whilst on pilgrimage to Rome.
Barts relied on the generosity of patrons to be able to develop and run the hospital until it came under the protection of the NHS in the twentieth century.
The Great Hall and Hogarth Stair of the North Wing were designed to impress potential patrons when meeting with the Board of Governors. Architect James Gibbs was commissioned to design the North Wing and Italian artist Giacomo Amiconi was invited to create a medically themed mural. London artist William Hogarth felt it should be painted by a local so offered his services for free. He painted the walls along the staircase between 1735 and 1737 which tell the stories of The Good Samaritan and The Pool at Bethseda. He also painted scenes depicting Rahere’s visitation, the founding stone and Rahere bringing patients to the hospital.
The North Wing is open every Monday and Tuesday (and every first Sunday of the month) from 10am to 4pm. Please check the website for seasonal closures. Entry is free and you are not required to book ahead of your visit.
There are regular events held at The North Wing which include talks, tours and music. Please check their website for details.
Getting there
Barts can be reached from Hertford Street by taking the Elizabeth line from Bond Street to Farringdon.