The London Traveler

The Foundling Museum commemorates the days when unwanted children might be left at the doors of the Foundling Hospital. Hopefully this Easter it will resound to the delighted cries of much happier children on the Easter Trail.

And perhaps the delighted cries of their money-saving parents – who get to see the museum for free, instead of paying the entrance fee, just as long as they are accompanying their children! (Children, by the way, always get free entry here.)

The Foundling Hospital is a fascinating place. It was founded by philanthropist Thomas Coram – who had two great friends you’ve probably heard of; the artist William Hogarth, and the composer Handel. Hogarth encouraged other artists to give works to the foundation, and so the museum is now one of London’s finest galleries of eighteenth century art. It’s still a place for living art, too, with a gallery which shows children’s work, and regular drop-in sessions where children can explore the museum and the arts.

Coram’s Field, outside the Hospital, is one of London’s loveliest green spaces – and again it’s entirely given up to the needs of children, with a playground and an animal enclosure. Adults are strictly prohibited – unless they’re with a child.

This Easter Saturday, children can follow a trail around the museum – and at the end of it, they’ll get a prize of chocolate from ‘Chocolat, Chocolat’.

The museum is at 40 Brunswick Square (Russell Square Tube station).

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