Herschel Museum of Astronomy

About

Tucked away at 19 New King Street in Bath, the Herschel Museum of Astronomy occupies the former home of William Herschel, the musician-turned-astronomer who discovered the planet Uranus in 1781. This modest Georgian townhouse, now a Grade II* listed building, is where Herschel and his sister Caroline—herself a pioneering astronomer—crafted telescopes, catalogued stars, and expanded the boundaries of the known universe. Visitors can explore the original workshop, music room, and garden, as well as view replicas of Herschel’s instruments and Caroline’s handwritten memoirs. The museum offers a rare glimpse into the intersection of science, music, and 18th-century domestic life, celebrating the Herschels’ enduring legacy in both astronomy and cultural history.

Bath United Kingdom

Location

The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is located at 19 New King Street, Bath, BA1 2BL, in a beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse that was once home to the renowned astronomer William Herschel and his sister Caroline. It was here, in the garden of this very house, that William Herschel discovered the planet Uranus in 1781, a moment that changed our understanding of the solar system. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the lives and achievements of the Herschels, featuring original period rooms, a music room, workshop, and a charming eighteenth-century garden marked by a commemorative stone at the site of Herschel’s discovery. Situated just a short walk from Bath’s city centre, the museum is close to many of the city’s most celebrated attractions. Queen Square, a classic Georgian park surrounded by elegant townhouses, is nearby and often hosts artisan markets and community events. The iconic Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s most famous architectural landmarks, is also within easy reach, offering visitors a chance to explore another facet of the city’s rich heritage. The area is dotted with inviting cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, making it easy to enjoy Bath’s vibrant atmosphere before or after your visit to the museum. The central location ensures excellent access to public transport and other cultural highlights, making the Herschel Museum of Astronomy an ideal starting point for exploring Bath.