Visit the family home that inspired a literary giant. Best known for his Dictionary of the English Language, Samuel Johnson spent the first 27 years of his life in this atmospheric Grade I listed trader's townhouse. Now a Museum to his life and times, with stunning collections and events for all throughout the year. We look forward to welcoming you to Johnson's home.
Services
Johnson's Birthplace has been a Museum to the writer and his times since 1901. The house was built for Johnson's parents Sarah and Michael in 1708, and the family ran their bookshop business on the ground floor. Now a Grade I listing building, the Birthplace is a vibrant accredited museum with events and activities throughout the year.
Johnson's Birthplace is a small, friendly historic house and Museum. We offer a range of activities and opportunities to help support Arts Award at all levels for young people from 0 - 25. The Museum is open every day and is free to visit, with trails and family activity guidebooks available to help to complete the Discover and Explore awards.
The Birthplace Museum is a Grade I listed building with many stairs. Chairs are provided throughout the building for visitors. A guide containing images and descriptions of the displays, a virtual tour and our introductory film are available to view in the ground floor reception (a small flight of 5 steps leads up to the entrance).
We'll be celebrating Samuel Johnson's 312th Birthday at the place where he was born. A weekly club for 8-12 year olds who love words! Read, write, create, act and illustrate in the inspiring setting of the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. Try your first session free! Friendly and informal group reading along with Radio 4's Book Club show, new members welcome.
Reviews (10)
Vince Ryan
Aug 31, 2021
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Chris Keran
Nov 29, 2020
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Something of a pilgramage for me as I guess it is for most visitors. Fascinating details and helps you to see the minutiae of his early life and locale.Very friendly and helpful staff.Even got to wear a tricorn for the first time.Good pubs within a stones throw with good menus .Well worth a visit if you have any interest in 18th century history or or Johnson.Free to enter !
James
Jan 03, 2020
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Went here the other day and saw it and figured why not? The place is a historical site for Samuel Johnson a famous English man. He made the first official dictionary, which is a pretty cool concept all in all.
The place itself consists of a tall house, Samuel Johnson's original home and you get to look around and see stuff he did in his life.
It's a free experience and really chill and accepts public donations to stay afloat.
The place itself consists of a tall house, Samuel Johnson's original home and you get to look around and see stuff he did in his life.
It's a free experience and really chill and accepts public donations to stay afloat.
Christine Watkins
Aug 22, 2019
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Emily Hty
Jul 24, 2019
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Super friendly and warm heart staff. Always make people feel like home! It's Dr. Jonathan's 310th birthday today, there were lots of fun activities and free cake for visitors. Every staff works very hard here, their efforts making this museum always warm and sweet. Just want to say thank you for all stuff and volunteers here, your smile like bright sunshine, I feel like back home. (I wish this was my homeš¤£)
Paul Phillips
Jul 02, 2019
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David Ball
Jun 09, 2019
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Rachel Venn
Aug 09, 2018
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The house has a lot of interesting items and information inside, and the free entry is really helpful for tourists and locals alike. We enjoyed the layout and detail that went into the house and the staff were really lovely, passionate and experienced. We learned a lot just from the staff so be sure to ask them if you have any questions when you visit. Highly recommended if you're in the area !
Vanessa O'Connor
Jul 14, 2018
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Dave Brown
Jan 17, 2018
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