About
The Bate Collection houses one of the world's most important collections of historic musical instruments. With over 2,000 European and non-European instruments from medieval times to the 20th century, the collection is an invaluable resource for understanding the history of music and instrument making. Highlights include baroque woodwinds, early keyboards, and the remarkable brass collection.
Categories:
Annual Visitors (2024)
12,000
Plan Your Visit
⏱️ Recommended Visit Duration
💡 Visitor Tips
- Check for live demonstrations and playing sessions
- Many instruments are still playable - ask about performance opportunities
- Free lunchtime concerts often feature instruments from the collection
- Photography permitted but no flash to protect delicate finishes
Highlights
Handel's Harpsichord
Harpsichord believed to have been owned and played by George Frideric Handel
Baroque Woodwind Collection
Outstanding collection of 18th-century flutes, oboes, and bassoons
Natural Trumpet Collection
World-class collection of baroque and classical natural trumpets
Gamelan Orchestra
Complete Javanese gamelan orchestra used for performances and study
Collections
Over 2,000 musical instruments from Europe and beyond, spanning from medieval times to the 20th century. Particular strengths in woodwind, brass, and keyboard instruments. The collection is actively used for research, teaching, and performances.
Evolution of the Orchestra
Instruments showing the development of the modern symphony orchestra
📍 Main Gallery
Keyboard Through Time
From virginals to pianofortes - the evolution of keyboard instruments
📍 Keyboard Gallery
Themes
Current Exhibitions
No current exhibitions. Please check the museum website for updates.
Nearby Museums (5 within 6 miles)
Museum of the History of Science, University of Oxford
Science & Technology
Oxford — ~5 min walk (0.3 mi)