A Place of Safety

Take a journey through the history of mental health from ancient approaches to modern day, featuring previously unseen artefacts from the Canterbury Museums and Galleries collection, alongside artwork loaned from the University of Kent, the Wellcome Collection and original artwork from Bethlem Museum of the Mind, including works which have not been exhibited previously.

This exhibition also features brand new artworks made in partnership with staff and patients from Kent and Medway Partnership Trust (NHS).

“How we deal with matters of mental health has significantly changed over the years and awareness of these issues is now the highest it has ever been… This will be a fascinating and thought provoking exhibition”

– Canterbury City Council’s lead councillor for culture, Cllr Joe Howes. (Read the full press release on the Canterbury City Council Newsroom)

Please note This exhibition contains objects, images and text which refer to experiences of mental illness or treatment which some visitors may find upsetting. There are films which contain language which is not suitable for those under 16.

Admission free, with a suggested £3 donation per visitor.

You can make your donation at the check-out when booking your tickets. Anything you can give makes a huge difference! Find out how your donation helps the museum.

To make your visiting experience more enjoyable, we are offering advanced booking in order to stagger visitor arrival times. Please feel free to arrive any time within your chosen hour arrival slot. You are welcome to stay as long as you wish. Pre-booking is not essential but is advised due to limited availability.

Location: Second Floor, Special Exhibition Gallery, The Beaney

Book your visit in advance

Book your accessible visit in advance