Benjamin Franklin House
- History enthusiasts
- Science enthusiasts
- Families with children
What Visitors Say
Excellent tours (architectural & then theatrical on different days). Great gift shop. Staff friendly & helpful. So glad one house where Benjamin Franklin lived is still standing - & standing beautifully!
Nice and friendly atmosphere in terms of place and staff. Requires a lot of attention as Benjamin Franklin's life is quite intricate. I was on the last tour of the day (Architectural tour) and was a little tired from my day out so I would recommend an earlier tour perhaps- if you're like me and function better in the morning. All in all though a very lovely and insightful experience.
Very interesting house-museum where Franklin lived during his London years. The building itself is full of original features and beautifully restored with many Victoria additions too - that alone would warrant a visit! But then through the guided tour (run but incredibly prepared volunteers) you learn so much about Benjamin Franklin’s life and many skills (printer, inventor…). Really worth a visit. They also offer historical experience sessions run by a professional actress. Recommended
Our guide was a woman dressed in perfect 18th-century attire (the cosplay was spot on and very well done!), and she led us brilliantly from room to room in the only surviving home where this Founding Father of America lived for so many years. Hearing the stories of his life, inventions, and time in London while moving through the actual spaces he occupied was truly captivating and quite impressive. Even with the minimal furnishings, the performance, atmosphere, and historical details made it feel alive.I loved every minute of it! Highly recommend the Historical Experience tour for anyone interested in Franklin or early American history. A hidden gem in the heart of London.
Great tour. I always liked Benjamin Franklin. Guide was very knowledgeable. House is grade 1, which is a bid deal in London. House shows it's age by its unlevel floors. To quote Monty Python. "Look at the bones!!!"
Highlights
Guided House Experience
Story-led tour animates Franklin’s 16 years in London and the pre-Revolution context.A Founding Father before the founding.
Whole house
Bones Underfoot
Human remains found in the basement link to 18th-century anatomical study.Anatomy in the age of Enlightenment.
Archaeology display
Uneven Floors, Intact Fabric
Grade I listing preserves the Georgian fabric—expect patina, not period furniture.Authenticity without the sofas.
Original interiors
Opening Hours
Fun Facts
Franklin rented rooms here rather than owning the house; furnishings are largely absent—interpretation carries the story.
The ‘bones’ discovery became one of the site’s most asked-about features.
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