Free drop-in activities celebrating the launch of the Barts Creative Health Map

This August, join us in The Hospital Square at St. Bartholomew’s for a programme of free creative activities delivered by cultural organisations from across the Culture Mile.

The Summer Series celebrates the development of a new series of resources for the hospital community, a guide to the inspiring cultural, historic and green spaces surrounding St Bartholomew's Hospital. Developed by Vital Arts and Barts Heritage, the map encourages patients, visitors and staff to discover the wellbeing benefits of exploring the local area, whether you're looking for a peaceful green space, fascinating history or a creative experience.

Throughout August, you'll have the opportunity to meet some of the organisations featured on the map and take part in free hands-on workshops, performances and activities right here at the hospital.

Everyone is welcome. All activities are free and no booking is required. Simply drop in and join us.

Make a Butterfly Puddling Station with Friends of St John's Garden

Thursday 6 August | 11am–3pm

Why do bees have furry coats? Why do butterflies need puddles? And how are local communities helping to restore nature in central London?

Join the Friends of St John's Garden to paint pebbles for butterfly puddling stations and learn about the Clerkenwell Pollinator Path. A fun, creative activity for all ages.

Create a Paper Flower with Barts North Wing

Tuesday 25 August | 11am–3pm

Meet the Barts North Wing team and discover the remarkable history of this Grade I listed building.

Working with artist Peter Ayres, create your own paper flower to take home or contribute to a collaborative installation celebrating the Barts Hospital community.

Broadcast Play Cycles with London Museum

Wednesday 26 August | 11am–3pm

Hop on over to Play Cycles, the London Museum's mobile, pedal-powered play programme.

Featuring themed cargo bikes packed with free drop-in activities, Play Cycles brings together arts and crafts, music making and storytelling for children and families.

London's Earliest Map with The Charterhouse

Thursday 27 August | 11am–3pm

Discover the earliest-known map of a place in London: the remarkable Charterhouse Water Map.

Join The Charterhouse Visitor Engagement team to explore this beautifully illustrated medieval map, recently digitised, and uncover the story of the neighbouring Carthusian monastery, its ingenious water supply and the changing landscape surrounding St Bartholomew's Hospital.

Music with the London Symphony Orchestra

Date to be confirmed

Take a moment to pause and enjoy live music from musicians of the London Symphony Orchestra.

Chat with up to three professional musicians, who will respond through improvised music inspired by your conversation, or simply find a seat and enjoy listening.

Discover More

The Barts Summer Series has been organised by Vital Arts and Barts Heritage, with support from our Culture Mile partners and funding from the Culture Mile Community Fund.

While you're here, don't forget to take your chance to feedback on the development of the map. Ask one of the facilitators how you can have your say.

Summer Series: Beyond Barts