The City Adventurers visited 21 Portland Place. This Grade II-listed building is one of London’s Georgian House gems and is also the home of the Association of Anaesthetists and the Anaesthesia Heritage Centre. We explored the richly decorated rooms of the 18th-century townhouse while learning about the world of anaesthesia and the vital role of anaesthetists.
Journey to the Edge of Consciousness: Unveiling the Story of Anaesthesia
The Museum of Anaesthesia and Heritage Centre offers a compelling, and surprisingly dramatic, journey through one of medicine’s most vital breakthroughs: the conquest of pain.
This museum doesn’t just display artifacts; it imparts the gripping story that begins with the pivotal moment of the first public anaesthesia demonstration in 1846 and follows the profession right up to modern anaesthetists performing life-saving work on the front lines of wars and terrorist attacks.
What started with A. Charles King’s private passion—a historical collection donated to the Association of Anaesthetists in 1953—has exploded into an extraordinary archive. Today, the Centre is a treasure trove of nearly 5,000 objects, 1,000 archive documents, and 7,000 library items.
Step inside to witness the full sweep of the profession’s history: from the crude, early attempts at pain relief in the 1840s to the incredible technological leaps of the 20th century. Explore displays detailing the critical role of anaesthesia in warfare, its impact on childbirth, and the evolution of resuscitation and pain relief techniques.
It’s an eye-opening exploration into the devices, the people, and the moments that have fundamentally changed what it means to be a patient. You will leave with a profound appreciation for the science that allows us to undergo the impossible.
- Experience the history of this Georgian residence come to life on a guided tour, or explore the richly decorated rooms on your own using our audio guide on the Bloomberg Connects app.
- Delve deeper into the history of anaesthesia in the museum
- Entry is free.
- Opening hours are Monday to Friday 10:00 – 16:00 (closed bank holidays).
- Last admission is 15:30.
Plan your visit at https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Heritage-centre
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