Saint John’s Hospital (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Saint John’s Hospital?
What makes it 76% Baby-Friendly: Step-free paths, lift, stroller parking and diaper tables aid a visit, yet no nursing room and dim galleries that may disturb babies call for extra planning and quick breaks.
Positives:
- Stroller accessible: Indoor paths and an adapted lift connect all floors.
- Baby-friendly facilities: Free toilets include diaper-changing tables.
- Free baby entry: Children under 13 enter the museum at no cost.
Challenges:
- Narrow doorways: Some doors and ramps require folding the stroller.
- No private nursing room: Bring a nursing cover or ask staff for a quiet corner.
What is Saint John’s Hospital?
- A museum occupying an original medieval hospital complex dating from the 12th to the 17th century
- Preserves historic wards, a fully intact 17th-century apothecary and a collection of medical artifacts and decorative arts
- Showcases original works by Hans Memling, including the Holy Relic Box of Saint Ursula
What is so special about Saint John’s Hospital for with baby?
- Stroller-accessible route with adapted lift
- Original 15th-century Memling art in medieval wards
- Fully preserved 17th-century pharmacy display
- Peaceful orchard park for feeding and rest
- Baby admission free with stroller parking and changing tables
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: 1–2 hours is enough to see key exhibits and let your baby rest in the orchard without rushing
Baby-Friendly Activities in Saint John’s Hospital
View Hans Memling masterpieces:
Explore original 15th-century paintings and the Holy Relic Box in medieval wards.
Tip: Use the stroller-friendly lift and ask staff to hold doors in narrow halls.
Discover the 17th-century apothecary:
See jars, scales and cabinets in the fully preserved monastery pharmacy.
Tip: Stop by early to avoid crowds and snap photos before moving on.
Stroll Sint-Janshospitaalpark orchard:
Wander under fruit trees and rest on benches in the peaceful park.
Tip: Feed or change your baby on park benches and let them stretch on the grass.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Saint John’s Hospital
- Store stroller when needed: Use reception storage to visit tight exhibit areas hands-free.
- Time your visit early: Arrive at opening to enjoy exhibits before groups arrive.
- Plan feeding breaks: Use outdoor benches in the orchard for peaceful feeding stops.
Reviews of Saint John’s Hospital
Daniel Barry
I was supported by kind staff during a sudden nosebleed, of which the volume could be demonstrated from the elevator scene from the shining. Regardless, the kind staff rescued me by fast tracking me to a neighbouring museum to access the toilet and sink. The museum was also worth visiting, with an excellent exhibition.
Berta Haskovcova
we visited the museum with my family and we highly recommend it. the atmosphere is authentic - a bit depressing but we liked it. the whole areal is beautiful. visited both the hospital and the pharmacy and it was splendid.
Heather Miller
The building was beautiful and hard to bel it was a hospital in it's day. More like a church (part of it was a monastery and the hospital was 'staffed' by nuns 100s of years ago. A lot of the displays were of art pieces from the time with a some amount of info relating to the care of patients. Well presented, though and an audio guide was available. Purchased a ticket that included the apothecar...
Ovidio Perez
We expected more a view of how the workings of a medieval hospital were. We got a beatifull collection of art connected to the medieval medicine and care of patients. It took us more than 3 hours to follow the exhibition
Uğur Emrah Altiparmak
The Old St. John’s Hospital in Bruges truly caught my attention with its fascinating history and unique architecture. It also houses a historic pharmacy museum, adding to its charm. This ancient hospital complex offers a captivating glimpse into medieval medical care
When is the best time to visit Saint John’s Hospital (Bruges, Belgium)?
In spring, the orchard blooms with white blossoms. In autumn, red leaves add color. Winter halls stay quiet but cool; bring a light layer.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult tickets | EUR 30 |
| Baby admission | EUR 0 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Saint John’s Hospital
Address: Mariastraat 38, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
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About Saint John’s Hospital
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+32 50 44 87 4310 BEST nearby Activities
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