Museum of East Asian Art

About

Just minutes from Bath’s Royal Crescent, the Museum of East Asian Art is the UK’s only museum dedicated solely to the arts and cultures of East and Southeast Asia. Housed in a restored Georgian townhouse, the museum holds over 2,000 objects spanning more than 7,000 years—from Neolithic pottery to contemporary works. Its collection includes exquisite jades, ceramics, lacquerware, bronzes, and bamboo carvings from China, Japan, Korea, and beyond. Founded in 1993 by Brian McElney, a former solicitor in Hong Kong, the museum was created to foster understanding and appreciation of East Asian artistry. Alongside its permanent displays, the museum hosts a vibrant programme of exhibitions, talks, and cultural events, including tea ceremonies and family activities. It remains a vital space for connecting cultures through art in the heart of Bath.

Bath United Kingdom

Location

The Museum of East Asian Art is located at 12 Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QJ, in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse just a few steps from The Circus and directly opposite the Bath Assembly Rooms. As the only museum in the UK dedicated solely to the arts and cultures of East and Southeast Asia, it houses an impressive collection of nearly 2,000 objects spanning over 7,000 years, including ceramics, jade, bronzes, lacquerware, and bamboo carvings from China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. The museum’s central location places it within easy walking distance of some of Bath’s most iconic sites, such as the Royal Crescent, the Fashion Museum Bath, and the city’s main shopping and dining areas. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant cultural atmosphere of the surrounding area, with elegant Georgian architecture, boutique shops, and inviting cafés nearby. The museum also offers a programme of special exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a dynamic destination for anyone interested in art, history, and global cultures.