The Charles Dickens Museum is the former home of famous author Charles Dickens and a stunning example of a Georgian terraced house. Managed by the Dickens Fellowship, the Charles Dickens Museum offers rare memorabilia and artefacts like a portrait of Dickens, manuscripts and numerous first editions.
Literary fans, history buffs and families with children often come to the museum to get a glimpse into the life of the renowned author. With an audio guide or guided tour, visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum in detail. Self-guided tours are available to move through the museum at your own pace.
Charles Dickens Museum in London - one of the highlights of 8 Places to Learn Something New in London (Read all about London here)
photo by Dickens Museum (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified
Highlights of the Charles Dickens Museum
Charles Dickens and his wife, Catherine Dickens, lived in the home from 1837 to 1839 with the eldest 3 of their 10 children. During that time, he completed ‘The Pickwick Papers’ and wrote ‘Oliver Twist’ and 'Nicholas Nickleby'.
The museum showcases many unique artefacts related to Dickens’ work and life, including original letters written by Dickens, original manuscripts, a large collection of first editions and personal items of his own and his family’s. The museum also displays the only known item of clothing to have been worn by Dickens himself, his Court Suit and sword that was worn for the presentation to the Prince of Wales in 1870.
photo by Robert Lamb (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
What to know when visiting the Charles Dickens Museum
You can purchase tickets to visit the Charles Dickens Museum online or in person. Because the museum is a historic home with delicate artefacts, there are strict rules regarding handbags, backpacks and pushchairs. You can store your belongings at locker or storage facilities at nearby rail stations.
The Charles Dickens Museum is part of Museum Mile, a collection of museums between Bloomsbury and the River Thames. Some of the museums nearby include the London Transport Museum, the Brunei Gallery, SOAS, the Cartoon Museum, the Foundling Museum and the collection of University College London museums.
Charles Dickens Museum in London
Location: 48-49 Doughty St, Holborn, London WC1N 2LX, UK
Open: Wednesday–Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm (closed Monday–Tuesday)
Phone: +44 (0)2074 052127
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