Barts Heritage Trust was founded in 2016 to rescue, repair and bring back to life a group of nationally important buildings within St Bartholomew’s Hospital in the City of London. Although the present buildings date from the 18th century, the Hospital is one of the oldest in Europe. In 2023 it will celebrate the 900th anniversary of its foundation and 900 years of free health care for all.
Barts Heritage has developed a project for the repair, conservation and reuse of the Grade I listed North Wing and Henry VIII Gatehouse. These buildings, with their spectacular interiors (including the Great Hall and Hogarth Stair) and diverse collections, form the physical and spiritual heart of St Bartholomew’s Hospital, drawing on 900 years of medical and architectural history.
As well as the physical conservation work, the project will open up the North Wing to visitors and as a unique venue for performance, conferences and celebrations. Built around a strong partnership with Barts Health NHS Trust the project will increase public access, diversify the audience and sustain the future of the buildings.