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Dr. Johnson's House

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Dr. Johnson's House Review

This is where Samuel Johnson lived between 1748 and 1759. Built in 1700, the elegant Georgian residence, with its paneled rooms and period furniture, is where the Great Bear (as he was known) compiled his Dictionary of the English Language in the attic as his health deteriorated. Two early editions are on view, among other mementos of Johnson and his friend, diarist, and later, his biographer, James Boswell. After soaking up the atmosphere, repair around the corner in Wine Office Court to the famed Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub, once Johnson and Boswell's favorite watering hole.

    Contact Information

  • Address: 17 Gough Sq., The City, London, EC4A 3DE | Map It
  • Phone: 020/7353-3745
  • Cost: £4.50
  • Hours: May--Sept., Mon.--Sat. 11--5:30; Oct.--Apr., Mon.--Sat. 11--5
  • Website: www.drjohnsonshouse.org
  • Tube: Holborn, Chancery Lane, Temple.
  • Location: The City
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    OK if you're a Johnson fan, I guess

    Like a lot of historic residences, this will be most meaningful to those who know something about and are keen fans of its owner. There's a reasonably informative video about the house and Johnson's career, and several pictures on the wall. Not bad, though probably best for big fans of Johnson.

    by bachslunch, 4/2/08

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