Dr Johnson's House
- Literature enthusiasts
- History enthusiasts
- Families with children
What Visitors Say
Slip into Dr Johnson’s old, creaky five-storey home. Full of interesting pieces of history and the dictionary that he compiled after eight years of hard work in 1755. It’s great to have these places preserved, for here is where he decided on dodge and its antecedents, here is where he helped a young man Frances out of an enslaved life. History might be written by the victors however, these places allow us to walk into the rooms where history was determined. It’s a wonderful find around a legal part of London. You can see that the word Dog, comes from the Dutch word, Dogghe.
Located in a quiet alley, Dr Johnson House deserves your time for visit. I really like the atmosphere that volunteers interested in English Literature gather together and have friendly discussions. You can always drop in and have chats with them. For the museum itself, it contains Dr Johnson’s living details and relevant history of English Dictionaries.
Interesting museum. With an audio guide I would recommend you listening to while in the rooms. I hadn't heard of this Dr before but he was a lexicographer and worked on the English dictionary in the mid 1700s. He lived here for a short while with his wife and friends. It was interesting to see the garret where worked in, with fragments of the dictionary hanging from the ceiling. And you can actually read the dictionary, which is so massive that it's split into two books. Speaking of dictionaries, some of the information has a definition of certain words, such as 'parlour', 'library'. In the library room, there is an open bookshelf you can use to peruse some of the titles there, so you probably won't have time to read a full book. This room or the garret was probably my favourite. Thr guest bedroom has costumes and a mirror in which you can dress up and see yourself in Georgian clothing. Though this museum is heavily centred on Samuel Johnson's time here, there was only a few information and photos of the next owners/residents. I spent just an hour here. There are events and talks that occur here which you can find details about online or in here. They seem to usually be on weekdays rather.
Fans of Johnson will find this house and its exhibits to be a treat, but anyone with literary and historical interest in London will also find charm. Dictionary themes guide the tour of rooms, which contain impressive portraits and several fascinating artifacts. There are interactive activities in several rooms, including the dictionary. Lovely house and windows apart from everything else. Knowledgeable and helpful staff/curator. In the age of internet cats, there’s a missing opportunity to make more of Hodge, Johnson’s famous feline, both in terms of house display and gift shop items. Play up Hodge! Note one must take a few twists and turns to find the house behind Fleet Street.
Wonderful house with so much character. Lovely welcome from the lady at reception. Unfortunately the card reader for payments was not working. We had cash so not a problem. Options to pay on line though. You are able to leave your coats at the reception and toilets are in the basement. Would also advise popping to the Old Mitre pub at Hatton gardens, you won't be disappointed. Both well worth a visit. The bit about a PATRON made us both laugh.
Highlights
Dictionary & Study
Workspace of the lexicographer who shaped English usage—see early editions and working context.Where words were weighed.
Upper floors
Johnson’s Circle
Boswell, Garrick and friends come alive via quotes and objects, giving the house its voice.A salon of sharp minds.
Portraits & panels throughout
Hidden Courtyard
A quiet pocket amid the City that frames the house’s domestic scale.City bustle, bookish calm.
Ground floor
Opening Hours
Fun Facts
The house feels light and uncluttered—labels lean on Johnson’s own words, so his tone guides the visit.
Not a large museum: depth comes from reading—best for literature/history fans.
