Dr Johnson's House

Definition of a hidden gem. The house isn't huge and you do need to read all the signs and labels to fully appreciate the full story of this building. However said history is still really cool and learning about Dr Johnson (yes, the guy from the meme) and his dictionary projects was very interesting. The tickets are 9 pounds (8 for students)

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of London's historic City, Dr. Johnson's House offers a charming escape into the life and times of Samuel Johnson, the 18th-century literary giant. Stepping through the threshold of this Grade I listed townhouse is like stepping back in time, transporting you to a world of quill pens, inkwells, and vibrant intellectual discourse.

As you ascend the creaky wooden staircase, the house unfolds its story room by room. The restored study, where Johnson toiled over his dictionary and hosted lively gatherings of literary luminaries, is a particularly evocative space. His worn armchair, inkwell, and vast collection of leather-bound books whisper tales of intellectual rigor and passionate debate.

While the house celebrates Johnson's monumental achievement, the "Dictionary of the English Language," it delves deeper into his multifaceted life. Exhibits explore his friendships with fellow giants like Boswell and Garrick, his love for tea and conversation, and his witticisms that still resonate today.

Despite its central location, Dr. Johnson's House feels like a hidden gem. The tranquil courtyard, a sun-drenched haven amidst the urban bustle, provides a space for quiet reflection or lively conversation, just as it did for Johnson and his circle.

Whether you're a literary enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a unique and charming escape in London, Dr. Johnson's House is a must-visit. It's a place where the past whispers in the creaking floorboards, the wit of a literary giant still hangs in the air, and the power of words comes alive like never before.

Lovely historic house displaying interesting artefacts of Johnson and his friends/associates. Very atmospheric with lovely interiors. If you are a fan of Georgian houses, this is a good place to nose around

Lovely place, with knowledgeable and erudite staff, wonderful exhibits and, most importantly, a statue of Dr Johnson’s beloved cat, Hodge

The house where Dr Johnson wrote his English dictionary. The first comprehensive guide to the English language with over 42000 words. It look him 9 years and he was payed the massive sum of £1500. This is a fascinating look into his world and where he lived while compiling it. Take a guided tour its very informative. The house is spread over 4 floors and a basement. There are steep flights so difficult if you are not mobile.

This is the home that Dr Samuel John rented and lived in when he worked on Engish dictionary. There isn't a massive amount to see, but what's there is high quality and more it's it's historically important association with Samuel Johnson. Much of the exhibits are the furnishing and books written by Johnson especially his travel books and of course the nearest thing to an original copy of his "A Dictionary of the English Language"

The house is 3 storied with steep narrow staircase. Sadly, those with mobility issues are unlikely to be able to see much of the house. Each floor has at least one information card that will tell you about the floor as well as some of the items in the room. There is an audio guide available for £2 if ironically reading is not your thing.

The museum is not part of the national trust, national trust members get 50% discount. So do remember to take along your membership card. I had a my Scottish membership card and that was perfectly fine.

If a man is tired of Johnson he is tired of life.
Dr Johnson’s House is a time machine into 1750s. The house is full of genuine Georgian features. If you want to learn more about the dictionary, Georgian houses or just get a bit of house envy - this place is for you. There’s not many people inside, so you can feel free to roam around the place with your own pace - with an audio guide for additional £2.

I've wanted to visit Dr Johnson's House for a long time so was happy to have some time in between appointments to pop in. Much of the content seems to be about the caretakers of the house, rather than its eponymous former inhabitant but it was interesting and illuminating nonetheless.

Entrance is a little overpriced in my view but justified as a one off.

Met Tim, who was curating today. What a lovely conversation we had and how friendly he was! I think the real strength of this place is the people who learn about it, love it and look after it. As a frequent lone visitor to London’s attractions there are precious few such interactions.

As a linguist and aspiring lexicographer, I was absolutely in my element at this amazing historic house in the centre of London. It is very easy to find and is off the main road enough to keep the bulk of the tourists away. Very special learning more about the "Father of the modern dictionary" and his personal life and Anglican devotion.

A fascinating experience. It felt quite magical for us but I guess that depends on your level of interest in literature. Dr J was well ahead of his time!

A lovely house but a lot of stairs. It was a great place to learn about the history of Dr. Johnson and see some original dictionary prints.

I thoroughly agree with Becky Murray's enthusiastic comments. This was my third visit, the first visit probably fifty years ago. Each time I learn more about this commonsensical giant of English literature and the world in which he lived.
Always worth a visit, even oof you haven't read Boswell's life of Johnson.
A good set of postcards on sale.

Samuel Johnson wrote the first great English dictionary and he is famous for the sentence “when you are tired of London, you are tired of life”. In the little square close to the house, there’s a monument of his cat Hodge. Here, I had the nice sensation that the time stopped long ago.

The house hasn’t a wheelchair access.

I love this little hidden gem. They have one of the most interesting series of events. I have been to a theatrical performance by Palimpest on how Dr Johnson would hold salon with his peers. Last week I went to learn about the Bluestockings literary circle of women writers. They just bring history to life in the most incredible way.

Amazing museum tucked away in the city of London. Dr Johnson was truly progressive and still offers us so much today. Anybody with an interest in architecture, black history, women’s history, humour, language, cats, literature…. there’s so so much to explore in this beautiful little place. Also boasts a fantastic gift shop and incredible staff who are all total experts and have so much knowledge to impart. A must visit! I have been three times now because I keep having to take people because nobody knows about it! But I have learnt and appreciated something new each time.

An excellent house museum showing what life was like when Dr Johnson wrote The Dictionary on site. Well interpreted with clear, informative signage and a fantastic audio guide! They also have temporary exhibitions and evening programs.

Nice friendly welcome from the lady at the reception desk who answered all of my questions. A very interesting "museum" which had the feel of a lived in house. The facsimile dictionary was also very informative. The museum is quite easy to find, though well off the beaten track. Good pricing and more than enough for a long visit.

Never knew about Dr Johnson’s Dictionary. Interesting out of the way stop

Lovely gem of a museum, just off the beaten track but well worth a visit! It really gives a sense of what it might have been like to be having tea with Dr. Johnson himself, and the curators have a wealth of information about him. All the paintings , books, and other artefacts add to the atmosphere, do check it out!