Dr Johnson's House
17 Gough Square, north of Fleet Street, London EC4A 3DE

Dr Samuel Johnson, who lived from 1709 - 84, was an important literary figure, famous for his witty remarks, recorded and published by his biographer, James Boswell. 

This house is the City's oldest remaining residence, built before 1700.  Hidden away in alleyways off Fleet Street, the building is the only one of  Johnson's 17 London homes to have survived.  In 1911 the house was saved from dereliction by the publisher Cecil Harmsworth. 

Administered by Harmsworth's family, the house was refurbished in 2001 in authentic colour schemes, including the chocolate brown woodwork fashionable in Johnson's day.   

Johnson lived here from 1748-59, and worked on the first comprehensive English dictionary, which was published in 1755.  The great man was assisted by six clerks, who stood at high desks in a long 'Dictionary Garret' at the top of the house.  A copy of the two volume dictionary can be seen on the ground floor. 

Today the house, sparsely furnished with 18th century pieces, evokes Johnson's larger-than-life personality, with descriptions, quotes and anecdotes.  On display are engravings, paintings and a small collection of exhibits relating to Johnson and the period. 

A video, showing aspects of Johnson's life and work, reveals how, from humble beginnings in Lichfield, he rose to become a member of the elite circle of intellectuals in London.  His friends included Edmund Burke, Oliver Goldsmith and Joshua Reynolds, whose portraits line the walls of the house.  There is a sculpture of  Johnson's cat 'Hodge', in Gough Square.

Admission charge

Opening Times

Open: May-Sep:  Mon-Sat 11:00-17:30, Oct-Apr: Mon-Sat 11:00-17:00. Closed 24-26 Dec, 1 Jan, Good Friday, Public holidays. Tel: 020 7353 3745 for details.