Home | Dr Johnson's House
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Welcome to Dr Johnson's House

'...when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life'

Discover the world of Dr Samuel Johnson, England's most distinguished Man of Letters

Opening Hours
Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm

Sunday 12pm - 4pm

Walk & Visit

Wednesday 12 August
1pm - 3pm


Take a fascinating walk through the heart of literary London and visit the home of its most famous resident writer, Samuel Johnson.

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Creative Writing Workshop for Children

Sunday 16 August
2pm - 3pm
Free with admission


Come join us for a fun and educational afternoon for 5-12 year olds at Dr Johnson's House this summer holiday!

Museum Lates

Thursday 20 August
5.30pm - 7pm


Enjoy sparkling drinks and discover one of London's best-kept secrets!

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An Introduction to 18th Century Costume

Lunchtime Lecture
Tuesday 25 August
12.30pm - 1.45pm


This talk will give a brief outline of the essential features of 18th-century costume, much as Dr Johnson would have known and seen worn around London.

Lo! An Amazon! The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Mary Wollstonecraft

Thursday 17 September
6.30pm - 8pm


A new graphic biography from the award-winning creative duo Mary M. Talbot and Bryan Talbot about Mary Wollstonecraft, foundational feminist philosopher and author who spoke for the other 'one-half of the human race': womankind.

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A House for Miss Pauline: Diana McCaulay & Sara Collins in Conversation

Thursday 8 October
6.30pm - 8pm


We are thrilled to welcome 2026 RSL Ondaatje Prize winner Diana McCaulay for a conversation on her brilliant new novel.

Become a Member

Join us and enjoy unlimited free entry! Your Membership provides critical support for the future of Dr Johnson's House.

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Desks, Drudgery and the Dictionary: Samuel Johnson’s Garret Lexicography

Current Exhibition
Free with Admission

We showcase new aspects of Johnson's garret lexicography, exploring why the garret was so important in Johnson's move to Gough Square.

Venue Hire

17 Gough Square is a remarkably untouched time-capsule from the Age of Enlightenment. Spread across five floors, this beautiful House provides a variety of spaces that can be transformed to create the perfect experience for you and your guests. 

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Discover Johnson's Dictionary

Explore the story behind Samuel Johnson’s groundbreaking Dictionary of the English Language and its lasting impact.

Children Welcome!

We've been welcoming children since 1752, when 8-year old Francis Barber came to live with Samuel Johnson.

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