The Foundling Museum

The Foundling Museum tells the story of the Foundling Hospital, London’s first home for abandoned children and of three major figures in British history: its campaigning founder the philanthropist Thomas Coram, the artist William Hogarth and the composer George Frideric Handel. This remarkable collection of art, period interiors and social history is now housed in a restored and refurbished building adjacent to the original site of the Hospital, demolished in 1926. One of London’s finest surviving Rococo interiors and England’s first public art collection provide a unique backdrop for exclusive entertaining and spectacular events. A stunning venue!

Court Room
Designed by William Hogarth in 1740s as the showcase for British Art, the Court Room was used by some of England’s leading artists namely Hogarth, Gainsborough and Reynolds. It formed the hub of the British Art world from 1747 to 1760 and led to the formation of the Royal Academy. The elaborate William Wilton ceiling, fine paintings and sculptures combine to make the whole room a sumptuous work of art which can be used for the most lavish intimate dinners for up to 40 guests. A breathtaking venue!

Picture Gallery
The magnificent gallery is modelled on the original building, and is decorated with many of the grand, full length and smaller portraits which established the collection in the 1740s, including Hogarth’s renowned portrait of Thomas Coram, which started this remarkable collection. The Gallery seats up to 100 guests for dinner, which can also hold concerts, conferences and lectures. A grand venue!

Coram’s Children Gallery
This contemporary gallery explores the Hospital’s poignant social history, displaying the Royal Charter granted by King George II and the moving tokens of love and remembrance left by inconsolable mothers, forced to give up their infant children. A truly moving venue!

Committee Room
The Committee Room displays nineteenth century paintings by the daughter of a former pupil, John Brownlow, who was the inspiration for Dickens’ Oliver Twist. It also shows Hogarth’s famous painting of the March of the Guards to Finchley. A truly magical venue!

Gerald Coke Handel Collection
The Museum’s second floor houses the largest private collection of Handel memorabilia and publications, including his will, contemporary manuscripts and artefacts and many scholarly works. A most musical venue!

Temporary Exhibition Gallery
This spacious, contemporary gallery may be hired for specific events or included in larger receptions during exhibitions.