Charles Dickens Museum, London

Charles Dickens Museum is the museum that showcases the works of famous English novelist Charles Dickens. It is located in a plain Georgian terraced house at 48 Doughty Street in Holborn, in the London Borough of Camden. This was where Dickens lived from 1837 to 1839, a year after his marriage. His second and third child were born there.

Dickens had a three year lease on 48 Doughty Street. He paid £80 per year for the property, after which he moved into grander homes as his wealth increased and his family grew - he had a total of ten children.

48 Doughty Street is the only home Dickens lived in that is still standing today. It was almost demolished in 1923, but was saved by the Dickens Fellowship, an international association of Dickens enthusiasts. The association raised funds to buy up the building and turned it into the Charles Dickens Museum (originally called Dickens House Museum), which opened its doors to the public in 1925.

The Charles Dickens Museum holds the most comprehensive collection of Dickens' memorabilia, including his paintings, manuscripts and original furniture. The house also has rare editions of Dickens' works and the famous portrait of Dickens by R.W. Buss, called Dickens' Dream. The rooms are also brought back to their Victorian era style with period furniture.

How to reach Charles Dickens Museum

Take the London Underground to the Russell Square Tube Station (Piccadilly Line) or Chancery Lane Tube Station (Central Line) and walk from there. Charles Dickens Museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission to the cafe, garden and gift shop is free while admission to the house itself is priced at £7 for adults and £3 for children.

List of Museums in London