Holbourne Museum of Art

Description:

• This has been called, quite accurately, "one of the most perfect small museums of Europe." It was constructed in 1796 as a building in which to entertain guests to Sydney Gardens, the luminaries including Jane Austen. It was converted into a museum at the turn of the 20th century to display a collection of Sir William Holburne's treasures, such as a bronze nude favored by Louis XIV, along with some of the finest Renaissance majolica or earthenware in England. Also on display are works illuminating the glittering society of 18th-century Bath at its pinnacle, including masterpieces by Thomas Gainsborough such as The Byam Family, on indefinite loan. Other choice tidbits from this treasure-trove include the lovely portrait of The Reverend Carter Thelwall and His Family by Stubbs and such surprising exhibits as a Steinway piano used by Rachmaninoff for rehearsals of his music. The museum is also the temporary venue of traveling exhibits.

  Insider's tip: After your visit to the Holburne Museum, walk behind the building to the Bath Boating Station along Forester Road (tel. 01225/312900; www.bathboating.co.uk). From April to September you can rent punts or canoes to explore the River Avon. It gives you a unique perspective on one of England's most beautiful cities.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010