The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret

The Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garret, located in London, is a captivating historical site that offers a unique glimpse into the medical practices of the 19th century. Situated in the attic of St. Thomas’ Church, this museum is home to one of the oldest surviving operating theatres in Europe. The theatre, once used for surgeries before the advent of anesthesia, has been meticulously restored to give visitors an authentic experience of what medical procedures were like in the past.

The museum also features a herb garret, where medicinal herbs were stored, dried, and prepared for use in treatments. This space was originally part of the hospital’s apothecary and provides insight into the herbal remedies and practices that were common before modern medicine. The collection includes a variety of medical instruments, anatomical models, and historical artifacts that tell the story of surgery and medicine from a bygone era.

Visitors to the Old Operating Theatre Museum can learn about the evolution of surgical techniques, the challenges faced by early surgeons, and the lives of the patients who were treated in these conditions. The museum’s exhibitions and displays are both educational and evocative, offering a window into the harsh realities of medical history.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Old Operating Theatre Museum hosts a variety of events, lectures, and educational programs that delve deeper into the history of medicine and surgery. These events provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with experts and learn more about the fascinating history of healthcare.