Dr Johnson's House
Recommended by
Overview
In a peaceful backwater not far from the frenetic buzz of the City, Dr Johnson's House is an oasis of calm. An elegant four-storey brick townhouse with polished wooden floors, Johnson moved here in order to work on the Dictionary of the English Language after living at a great many less salubrious addresses in London. Upstairs in his writer’s garret, the renowned wit and writer spent his days compiling his Dictionary. It was finally published in 1755. From that point onwards, Johnson’s fame was assured. He became known as 'Dictionary Johnson', and in 1762 received a pension from George III. Today, 17 Gough Square houses a research library, a collection relating to Johnson and many original features. All the rooms in the house can be visited and you can even try on Georgian costumes and sit in some of the chairs and window seats to get a real sense of Johnson’s London.
Ratings & awards
Green Tourism Bronze
Features
- Opening Times
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year, May-Sep, Mon-Sat 11-5.30; Oct-Apr 11-5. Closed Sun, BHs, Good Fri. Please check website for Xmas opening times
- Facilities
- Parking nearby
- Children
About the area
London, the UK’s capital, is a metropolis of famous landmarks, unrivalled shopping, world-renowned arts venues, galleries and museums, dining and award-winning theatre. London is steeped in royal history, and visitors can watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, learn about the final days of Anne Boleyn at the Tower of London, or take a leisurely stroll around the capital’s Royal Parks.
Places to eat nearby View all
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Hotel
Z Hotel Holborn
- En-suite rooms:
- Family rooms:
Nearby places to stay
Rosewood London
Situated in the heart of Holborn, Rosewood London was originally built between 1912 and 1914 and designed by H Percy Monckton in an ostentatious Edwardian style. Today, the interior des...
Z Hotel Holborn
Located on leafy Kingsway, close to Lincoln’s Inn Fields and Theatreland, The Z Hotel Holborn is the latest in London hotels. Rooms are deeply functional, and their compact luxury makes...
Middle Eight
Middle Eight is a modern hotel located in the heart of Covent Carden. The stylish bedrooms are available in a variety of styles, and the suites are particularly stunning. There is a wid...
Malmaison Charterhouse Square
Situated in a leafy and peaceful square, Malmaison Charterhouse maintains the same focus on quality service and food as the other hotels in the group. The bedrooms, stylishly decorated ...
One Aldwych
One Aldwych is just off The Strand, among smart boutiques, vibrant restaurants and thrilling theatres. Its richly layered interiors convey the style of an elegant, modern residence, mat...
L'oscar London
L'oscar London is a delightful hotel in a wonderful location close to many of London's attractions. Luxuriously appointed bedrooms include a selection of stunning suites that are equipp...
The Westin London City
A relative newcomer on the London scene, The Westin London City has plenty of class and sophistication. It's set in the Square Mile overlooking the Thames, close to business and financi...
The Savoy
Possibly the best known hotel in the city, The Savoy has been at the forefront of the London scene since it opened in 1889. Located on the banks of the Thames and within walking distanc...
