London's Hunterian Museum

One of London's more unusual museums is a testament to the development of modern surgery.

One of London’s most intriguing museums is the Hunterian. Recently opened after a major refurbishment, it gives a fascinating insight into the development of modern surgery.

John Hunter, surgeon and anatomist (1728-1793), amassed a vast collection of anatomical specimens during his career. He taught anatomy and also led developments in surgery. Today, his collection of specimens, along with other surgical antiquities are housed within the Hunterian Museum at the Royal College of Surgeons.

When I say antiquities, that’s not entirely true. At the entrance to the Royal College is a surgical robot machine, one of the modern-day techniques used to treat people. The museum has been extensively upgraded to make it more appealing, so there are interactive displays such as those exploring how Hunter got started with surgery.

Eight galleries and exhibits from ancient history to modern times take visitors through the development of surgical techniques and learning. The museum has the largest collection of anatomical specimens in Europe. All around are specimens, surgical instruments, and paintings. Hunter’s early and personal life are captured in the museum along with rows of jars containing specimens. However, there are stories behind the jars, such as the explorations of vascular injuries experienced by coachmen. A wax model shows the effects of the phossy jaw from the 1800s when workers in match factories were exposed to phosphorous. It’s also fair to say the specimens were collected at a time when there was limited consent or ethics committees, but they give a profound insight into how surgical knowledge developed.

The museum has items that are of tremendous historical significance. There are carbolic sprays used by Joseph Lister, specimens donated by Edward Jenner and Joseph Banks, and the story of how surgical gloves were invented. Winston Churchill’s dentures also have a new home in the museum.

There is a notable absence as you wander through the museum, and that is the lack of women. However, that’s the story of surgery, and it is gradually improving.

However, the final gallery is the most profound. It’s here that modern surgery and techniques come to life. Contemporary surgeons have recorded a series of videos that play on a loop and include female surgeons. The most poignant of all is the testimony from Jennifer Sutton, a patient, and her surgeon. Jennifer had a heart transplant, and her native heart is displayed beside the video in the museum.

I thought I would whizz through this museum in 20 minutes but I was engrossed and stayed over an hour. It’s a brilliant museum, and it’s free. However, the museum recommends pre-booking because it is popular and is also used for private functions. There’s a curated talk on Thursdays and events throughout the year.

Adjacent to the Hunterian is a lovely cafe (wonderful coffee and cakes). That is if you feel like food after looking at all those specimens.

I really enjoyed this museum, which took me by surprise as it is a lot more than a collection of specimens. However, I wouldn’t want to spend a night there!

The Hunterian Museum | The Royal College of Surgeons of England, 38-43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PE

https://hunterianmuseum.org/