Saint John’s Hospital (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Saint John’s Hospital?
What makes it 82% Kids-Friendly: Children enter free, enjoy the “Children’s Hospital” play zone and attic touch-screens, but parents must guard fragile artworks and keep noise low, so engagement varies by age.
Positives:
- Free Kids’ Entry: Children under 13 enter for free, making the visit budget-friendly.
- Child-Height Displays: Hands-on labels and low panels keep exhibits engaging for all ages.
Challenges:
- Narrow Medieval Halls: Some corridors are tight; hold hands and watch for low ceilings.
- Fragile Displays: Art and glass cases require close supervision of curious kids.
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 kids?
- Explore a fully preserved medieval hospital pharmacy.
- See original Hans Memling paintings with child-friendly audio.
- Interactive children’s area lets kids play doctor.
- Free admission for under-13s and hands-on labels.
- Nearby orchard offers a shaded play spot after touring.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 1-2 hour visit covers main exhibits and interactive areas without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Saint John’s Hospital
Explore the 17th-Century Pharmacy:
See original apothecary cabinets, jars and tools from the old monastery pharmacy.
Tip: Point out colorful glass jars to spark kids’ curiosity and explain old remedies.
View Hans Memling Masterpieces:
Admire four original Memling paintings including the St. Ursula Reliquary.
Tip: Use the free audio tour for children aged 6+ to bring each scene to life.
Play in the Children’s Hospital Area:
Dress up in doctor’s coats, examine toy X-rays and bandages in the hands-on zone.
Tip: Let younger kids lead the game and ask staff for extra props if available.
Visit the Orchard at Sint-Janshospitaalpark:
Let children run safely among fruit trees on benches under shade.
Tip: Bring a small snack or picnic for a break after your museum tour.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Saint John’s Hospital
- Buy Tickets Online: Reserve adult tickets in advance to skip entry lines.
- Arrive at Opening: Visit right at opening time to use interactive tables before crowds arrive.
- Combine with Park Visit: End your museum trip with free play in the nearby orchard.
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 and summer, pack a snack to enjoy under the fruit trees in the nearby orchard after your visit.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult tickets | EUR 30 |
| 2 children under 13 | 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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