48-49 Doughty St, London WC1N 2LX
Charles Dickens Museum
The Charles Dickens Museum is an author's house museum at 48 Doughty Street in King's Cross, in the London Borough of Camden. It occupies a typical Georgian terraced house which was Charles Dickens's home from 25 March 1837 to December 1839.
Location
About
The Charles Dickens Museum, located in the heart of London, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the life and works of the famous 19th-century author. The museum is housed in the former home of Dickens, where he lived from 1837 to 1839 and wrote some of his most famous novels, including Oliver Twist and Nicholas Nickleby.
As you step inside the museum, you are transported back in time to the Victorian era. The house has been carefully preserved and restored to its original state, giving visitors a glimpse into what life was like for Dickens and his family during their time here. The rooms are decorated with period furniture and personal belongings, including Dickens' writing desk and chair, as well as letters and manuscripts that give insight into his creative process.
The museum offers a range of guided tours, including the "Dickens and Christmas" tour, which explores the author's enduring association with the festive season, and the "Women in Dickens' Life" tour, which focuses on the strong female characters in his novels and the women who influenced his writing.
One of the highlights of the museum is the exhibition on Dickens' life and work, which includes original manuscripts, first editions of his books, and personal items such as his snuff box and inkwell. Visitors can also see the famous portrait of Dickens by artist Margaret Gillies, which he described as his "favourite likeness."
In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts a variety of special events and exhibitions throughout the year. These include talks and lectures on Dickens' life and work, theatrical performances of his plays and readings of his novels, and family-friendly activities such as storytelling and crafts.
Overall, a visit to the Charles Dickens Museum is a fascinating and immersive experience that offers a unique insight into the life and times of one of the most celebrated writers in English literature. Whether you are a fan of Dickens' novels or simply interested in the history of Victorian London, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
The Charles Dickens Museum is a must-visit destination for literature lovers, history buffs, and tourists alike. Located in the heart of London, this museum is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned Victorian author, Charles Dickens. The museum is situated in a Georgian townhouse in Bloomsbury, where Dickens lived from 1837 to 1839 and wrote some of his most famous works.
While the museum itself is fascinating, there are also plenty of other attractions to explore nearby. Here are some of the top places and things to do in the vicinity of the Charles Dickens Museum:
1. British Museum: Just a short walk away from the museum is the British Museum, one of the most famous museums in the world. The museum is home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the globe, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
2. Russell Square: Located right outside the museum, Russell Square is a beautiful public garden that provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens or sit down and relax with a book.
3. The Foundling Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the Foundling Hospital, which was established in the 18th century to care for abandoned children. The museum is located just a few minutes' walk from the Charles Dickens Museum and provides a fascinating insight into the social history of London.
4. The British Library: Just a short distance from the museum is the British Library, home to over 170 million items, including books, manuscripts, and maps. It is the largest library in the world by number of items cataloged, and it is a must-visit destination for bibliophiles.
5. The Cartoon Museum: Located just a few blocks away from the museum, the Cartoon Museum celebrates the art of cartoons, comics, and graphic novels. It has a collection of over 6,000 pieces, including works by British cartoonists and international artists.
6. The Grant Museum of Zoology: Just a 10-minute walk from the museum, the Grant Museum of Zoology houses over 68,000 specimens, including skeletons, taxidermy, and fossils. It is one of the oldest natural history museums in the country and provides a fascinating insight into the diversity of animal life.
7. Oxford Street: If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, Oxford Street is just a short distance away from the museum. It is home to some of the largest department stores and high-end boutiques in the world, including Selfridges, John Lewis, and House of Fraser.
8. Covent Garden: Just a few blocks away from the museum, Covent Garden is one of the most vibrant and entertaining areas in London. The streets are filled with street performers, shops, and restaurants, and it is a great place to explore and people-watch.
In conclusion, the Charles Dickens Museum is a fascinating destination that provides a glimpse into the life and works of one of the most famous authors in the world. With so many other attractions in the vicinity, visitors can easily spend a full day exploring the area and immersing themselves in the history and culture of London.
Opening Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–5 pm |