After a 250-year absence, the ‘Dictionary Desk’ of celebrated 18th century writer Samuel Johnson makes a historic return to his former abode, Dr Johnson’s House in the City of London.
Enjoy Coffee with the Curator at Dr Johnson's House. Hear the story of the life and work of one of England's greatest literary figures over a coffee and pastry!
There are many stories at 17 Gough Square, from Dr Johnson and his famous Dictionary, to Georgian London during the Age of Enlightenment, to the remarkable story of the survival of a 300-year old house.
Dr Samuel Johnson, one of England's greatest literary figures, wrote the first proper English Dictionary here in 1755. He is also famous for his love of London, not least when he observed, ‘when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life’.
Located just behind Fleet Street, the House was built in the 1690s soon after the Great Fire of London. It is the only historic townhouse still standing in the area, having survived the Blitz and developments. It retains many original features, including a very quirky 17th-century anti-burglary device! Up in the Garrett, you will find Johnson’s Study, the ‘Cradle of the English Language’. You can try writing with quill and ink, and browse the Dictionary for words that sound strange - and funny - to our ears today, such as Hotcockles and Jiggumbob! Discover witty ‘Johnsonian’ definitions for words such as ‘Oats’: ‘A grain, that which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people’.
Come for coffee (or tea - as Johnson would have preferred) and stay as long as you like while you explore Dr Johnson's wonderful house of words!
Ticket includes coffee or tea and pastries, plus Curator's talk. You are welcome to stay on as long as you wish to browse the House and Gift Shop when we open to the public at 11am.
