Benjamin Franklin House

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

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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.

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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!!!"

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If you’re a lover of history and an admirer of Ben Franklin, you’ll really enjoy this experience. The fact it’s the original house that has been restored to its original condition is impressive. It’s made quite clear there are no original furnishings because they were removed when everyone left. But the provenance of the house and the historical significance are reason to visit. Many prominent historical figures responsible for the evolution of democracy visited here when Franklin was in residence….for 16 years. It was a quiet day so I was fortunate that Oliver, the full-time employee and Franklin historian, was able to spend time with me and the only other visitor at the time time, taking us room to room offering unending information and interesting stories. When you check-in you receive printed information about the house and each room. I also downloaded the Bloomberg Connects app which added more details. I’m fascinated with Franklin and spent three hours learning and exploring. A true history buff will love this house. I would definitely go back and highly recommend for anyone who wants to know more than basic Franklin history.

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I visited Benjamin Franklin House this year, not my first visit, and most certainly not my last. It truly exceeds expectations. Opened to the public on 17 January 2006, it’s the world’s only surviving home of Benjamin Franklin—not just a museum, but a living educational space. Originally built as a lodging house, the building later served as a hotel and home to various non-profit organizations throughout the 20th century. By the late 1990s, when the Friends of Benjamin Franklin House were granted the freehold by the British government, the property was in serious disrepair. Their dedicated work, alongside volunteers and partner organizations, transformed it into a dynamic museum and learning center that highlights both the timeless relevance of Franklin and the turbulent era in which he lived. Franklin is certainly the most famous resident of 36 Craven Street, but the house itself has a rich and fascinating history. Today, visitors can explore his London years through the Historical Experience, Architectural Tours, and a lively calendar of events. Their free education program is especially impressive, bringing Franklin’s science and Georgian London to life for children both on-site and in classrooms. For nearly sixteen years (1757–1775), Franklin—scientist, diplomat, philosopher, inventor, and Founding Father—called this house home. While he came to London as a colonial diplomat, his time here spanned far more than politics. In my humble opinion, this is a must-see for any American visiting London from across the pond. It’s a place of genuine historic significance, especially in the story of early Anglo-American relations. And who knows—maybe a little revolutionary spirit still lingers here for British visitors too. One can only hope! Highly recommended.

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