Friends of Barts Heritage
Who we are
The Friends were started in 2011 as The Friends of the Great Hall and Archive by a small group of medical and nursing alumni to help preserve this amazing heritage in the heart of London. The group formed a central committee and expanded to attract several hundred like-minded individuals, many who have trained or worked at Barts and others familiar with the buildings, archives and artistic treasures that are housed there. They came together to ensure that the heritage site and contents are appropriately preserved to inspire future generations.
By the end of 2012 it became clear that there was a major threat to the future viability of Barts North Wing from planned new construction. The Friends became the sole champion of the heritage buildings until the trust, Barts Heritage, was set up in 2016. The Friends have since done sterling work to preserve the integrity of the heritage buildings, despite formidable obstacles which have been thrown their way, and the support of their Members has been crucial in helping maintain the momentum.
What we do
Friends’ objectives:
- To support the work of Barts Heritage in restoring and conserving the Barts North Wing Complex, including the Great Hall, and the Henry VIII Gate.
- To act as ambassadors for Barts Heritage, educating and informing members of the public, and potential members, about the restoration project and its place in Barts’ 900 year history.
- To ensure that the restored buildings are used for educational, cultural, social and fundraising activities and that they will survive and flourish for future generations.
Join the Friends
Individual Friends membership is £20 a year, Joint membership is £35 and Students can join for £5. To apply for membership, complete the form below.
Contacting the Friends
If you have a query about the Friends, or if you are a current Friend and want to alter your contact details, get in touch with us at membership@bartsheritage.org.uk
More ways to support us
Volunteer
Volunteers are an essential part of our team, helping us to welcome visitors, tell stories about the history of Barts, and keep our spaces safe. We are currently recruiting Visitor Experience Hosts to volunteer with us from October 2025.
Leave a legacy
The Great Hall at Barts proudly displays the names of hundreds of generous individuals who have left legacies and bequests to safeguard this special place. Today, legacies are as important as ever to Barts Heritage.
Join the Patrons Circle
The ongoing support of our Patrons Circle members helps us safeguard and keep open our nationally important cultural treasures and helps secure their future.
King Charles III is Patron of Barts Heritage.