Step into the shoes (or rather, the buckled shoes) of an 18th-century Bristolian at The Georgian House Museum! Situated just off the lively Park Street, this six-storey townhouse is a time capsule that whisks you back to 1790, when the wealthy sugar merchant John Pinney called it home. If you’ve ever wondered what life was like for both the affluent and the invisible, this museum’s got the whole upstairs-downstairs drama covered.
As you explore, you’ll discover 11 rooms spread over four floors, each restored to its former Georgian glory. Downstairs, you’ll find the hustle and bustle of the kitchen, housekeeper’s room, and even Pinney’s cold-water plunge pool—talk about a chilling experience! A hidden staircase ensures that the servants remained out of sight, though you might spot the bells that once summoned them.
Upstairs, prepare to be dazzled by the dining room set for an extravagant feast, and the elegant drawing rooms where guests once gathered for tea and gossip. John Pinney’s office, complete with a strong room, offers a peek into his sugar-sweet business dealings. And don’t miss the small exhibition on Pinney’s involvement in the sugar trade and the life of his enslaved valet, Pero Jones—a sobering reminder of the house’s complex past.
The Georgian House Museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with free entry (a deal as sweet as sugar!). Just remember, there’s no café or toilets on-site, and the only way up or down is via stairs.
Fancy a double dose of history? Pair your visit with a trip to the nearby Red Lodge Museum.
Details
- Address:
- 7 Great George St,
- BS1 5RR