Thackray Museum, Leeds

The Thackray Museum of Medicine in Leeds offers a deep dive into the history of medicine, situated right next to Saint James's University Hospital. Originally opening its doors in March 1997 as the Thackray Medical Museum, it quickly made its mark by winning "Museum of the Year" in 1998 and scooping up several accolades thereafter, including the "Excellence in England Small Tourist Attraction of the Year" in 2004.

Housed in a Grade II listed building that was once the Leeds Union Workhouse, the building’s rich history spans from providing care for 784 paupers in 1861 to serving as the East Leeds War Hospital during the First World War, and later hosting the North of England's first geriatric ward. Repurposed in the 1990s to become a museum, it keeps alive the legacy of Charles Thackray, founder of one of Britain’s leading medical companies.

After its significant redevelopment, the museum reopened in May 2021 and quickly earned accolades, including a nomination for the Art Fund's Museum of the Year 2021 and a special commendation from the European Museum Forum in 2023. The museum features exhibits like the grim "Disease Street" gallery, showcasing Victorian Leeds, and the innovative "Disease Detectives" and "Cutting Edge" galleries, highlighting advances in medical science. Interactive exhibits such as "The LifeZone!" and "Sparks!" cater to visitors of all ages, ensuring engaging experiences.

Permanent galleries such as "The Victorian Operating Theatre" and "Making Us Well, Outside In" not only recount historical advancements but also underscore the ongoing evolution of medical practices and public health measures. The museum’s commitment to community involvement is evident in its temporary exhibitions, like "Private Parts," which explore intimate aspects of healthcare and identity through a co-curative approach.

The Thackray Museum of Medicine not only preserves the legacy of medical history but also serves as a vital educational resource, highlighting the profound impacts of medicine on society through immersive and interactive learning experiences.