Mood States exhibition by Annabel Merrett

You're invited to explore an exciting new exhibition at our museum of mental health in Bristol

Mood States has been exhibited at, among other places, the Royal College of Psychiatrists and The Museum of the Mind. We now welcome this fascinating collection to Glenside Hospital Museum in Bristol.

Featuring a dozen head sculptures, each representing different mood states, the collection offers a physical manifestation of the mind's inner workings, assuring viewers they are not alone in their darkest thoughts. The exhibition has been imaginatively integrated into our collection by the artist Annabel Merrett.

While stocks last, all visitors to the Mood States exhibition will be offered the chance to paint a mini brain to take home. All materials are provided and this is a great opportunity to sit quietly and reflect on your visit while enjoying a creative activity, which we've noticed both kids and adults have loved doing!

• Tea in the Turret, until 27th Sept 2025:

If you'd like to enjoy a cup of tea and cake, we have a uniquely "Bristol" micro-adventure to offer you:

Tea in the Turret takes you on journey up a secret spiral staircase and into the hidden balcony area, giving an impressive aerial view of our museum. This experience also includes a visit to the main body of the museum, including the Mood States exhibition.

To book your tickets please visit the Eventbrite page: click here for tickets.

General visiting information for Glenside Hospital Museum

Glenside Hospital Museum is based within the1881 asylum church, with beautiful stained glass windows and set within the walled landscaped grounds of Bristol's purpose built asylum all designed to give hope and cure.

Unlock the history of mental health care through an exploration of our psychiatric hospital collection. Gain a glimpse of life in Bristol Mental Hospital through the beautiful Denis Reed documentary drawings of patients. Find the key a patient made which unlocked all the doors.

From 1915-1919 the asylum became Beaufort War Hospital, specialising in orthopaedics. Over 29,000 wounded soldiers were treated here.

Always wanted to know what stories the yellow house on the hill has to tell? We have the history of the Dower House, Stoke Park, part of the hospitals caring for children and adults with learning disabilities.

We have frequent art exhibitions, which are all included in your standard ticket price.

Opening hours

Glenside Hospital Museum is open Wednesday mornings 10am-1pm and Saturdays 10am-4pm.

Each £5 ticket booked is an annual pass, allowing unlimited repeat visits for 12 months. Under 18s enjoy free entry with a parent/guardian.

Average visiting time is 1-2 hours, but please stay as long as you like during our opening hours.

Group bookings and tours

We are also open for group bookings and tours. In addition to offering an educational handling collection for adults and young people to discuss mental health care through the lens of history. For further information contact the museum through our website.

Location postcode: BS16 1DD

We are within the walls of the old asylum in Fishponds, Bristol. There are two entrances on Blackberry Hill. If you head for the Old Tavern Pub and go through that entrance the church is on the left. We are based inside the church.

Parking

The car park outside our museum belongs to the University of the West of England (UWE) on Wednesdays so please park outside the campus. On Saturdays you may use the car park free of charge.