Museum of Costume

Follow the story of fashion, from the late sixteenth century to the present day, at Bath's internationally acclaimed Museum of Costume.

Dressed figures and displays of fashion accessories show how styles have changed for men, women and children. Marvel at the delicate stitching, exquisite colours and varied textures of the fabrics.

Embroidered garments of the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods, the famous "silver tissue" dress (a rare survival from the 1660s) and a perfect miniature of an eighteenth century court dress are some of the treasures on view.

'Corsets Uncovered' - try on a corset like your great great grandmother's.

Special Exhibitions 2007/8: The Nureyev Style until 15th April 2007; Fashion and Bath 22nd March 2007 - 2nd January 2008; Pockets of History until 2nd September 2007; Pick of the Bunch 17th July - 27th August 2007.

An award winning audio tour of the Museum of Costume and Assembly Rooms is offered in seven languages free of charge. The audio guides can be adapted for visitors with impaired hearing. A script of the audio tour is also available on request. Guided tours can be arranged for groups.

The museum keeps up to date with modern fashion. Each year a leading expert chooses a "Dress of the Year" to represent the most important new ideas in contemporary style. Selections include Mary Quant, Jean Muir, Giorgio Armani, John Galliano and Alexander McQueen.

The Museum of Costume shop has an extensive collection of books on fashion and its history alongside an excellent selection of gifts.

There are study and research facilities for students and members of the public at the Fashion Research Centre nearby. The Library, Study Collection of Costume and Information/Identification service are available by appointment. Contact: Assembly Rooms and Museum of Costume Manager, Museum of Costume, Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH. Tel: 01225 477789.

The museum is fully accessible by wheelchair, and there is a wheelchair available. There are courtesy child carriers available for young children.