The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
Latest Reviews
I have lived in this area for over 65 years and never visited this building. It is wonderful. Lots to look at and lots of original artefacts. Everyone can learn a lot here, even me. I knew of Samuel Johnson, but I knew an awful lot more after this visit. Well worth the effort and the house is situated right in the main centre of Lichfield.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
For anyone interested in words and the English language this is a 'must'. An informative, welcoming museum.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We were in Lichfield for the day celebrating our friend's birthday. We chose Lichfield as it has a bit of everything, good food, good shopping and good culture. It was approaching 3pm when we stumbled across the Samuel Johnson Museum and seeing as our friend studied writing at university we thought it thoroughly appropriate to have a look round!
Well, when we stepped through the big wooden door, we were met by the nicest two staff who ever worked in a museum! They were so funny and friendly and welcoming, without being overbearing and awkward. They gave us some brilliant facts about Johnson as well as asking us a few questions about ourselves then letting us explore the house on our own. It was very unexpected and was the reason behind our donation; there are areas throughout the museum to leave cash towards its running.
The museum itself is stunning, especially when you take into consideration how old it is and that Johnson's father built it himself. As you work your way through the rooms, they get more and more narrow and rickety which all adds to the atmosphere.
It doesn't take too long to reach the attic where there is a brilliant dressing up section for kids and grown-ups alike!
Despite only being there no more than half an hour, we were really glad we visited this unique little museum and after another chat with the staff members whilst we had a look through the book shop, felt as though we'd made a couple of new friends in Lichfield!
Well, when we stepped through the big wooden door, we were met by the nicest two staff who ever worked in a museum! They were so funny and friendly and welcoming, without being overbearing and awkward. They gave us some brilliant facts about Johnson as well as asking us a few questions about ourselves then letting us explore the house on our own. It was very unexpected and was the reason behind our donation; there are areas throughout the museum to leave cash towards its running.
The museum itself is stunning, especially when you take into consideration how old it is and that Johnson's father built it himself. As you work your way through the rooms, they get more and more narrow and rickety which all adds to the atmosphere.
It doesn't take too long to reach the attic where there is a brilliant dressing up section for kids and grown-ups alike!
Despite only being there no more than half an hour, we were really glad we visited this unique little museum and after another chat with the staff members whilst we had a look through the book shop, felt as though we'd made a couple of new friends in Lichfield!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Birthplace of famed lexicographer, writer and literary critic Samuel Johnson, a visit here is a must. The house itself has been sympathetically restored, with creaking floorboards adding to the atmosphere, and you will find much of interest, including a facsimile of his famous Dictionary, his well-worn armchair, and small breakfast table. I particularly liked the personal effects, such as his dainty china hot chocolate pot and cups - for a large gentleman, Dr. Johnson seems to have had some delicate sensibilities.
There is dressing up for children (sadly not for adults :-)) and much information on his life, times and works. The house has character and charm, overseen by a very knowledgeable and friendly custodian, and although donations are requested, it is free to enter.
A very agreeable visit!
There is dressing up for children (sadly not for adults :-)) and much information on his life, times and works. The house has character and charm, overseen by a very knowledgeable and friendly custodian, and although donations are requested, it is free to enter.
A very agreeable visit!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Samuel Johnson house and museum established within it. It is the original home of one of Lichfield's most famous 'sons' of the past. The literary genius achieved so much in his lifetime and this story is told in a DVD you watch whilst visiting the house as well as on numerous information boards. The house and museum at set out on five floors, from the small basement room to the attic and there are many things to see and appreciate in a relatively small space. Because five floors are involved, there are a lot of stairs to climb but for anyone not able to do this, the DVD is very informative. The ground floor serves as a bookshop and one could browse there for a long time. Entrance if free though donations are welcome. The staff are extremely welcoming and knowledgeable. The house is right in the centre of town and is well signposted.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
As in Samuel Johnson's father's day, the ground floor is still a bookshop. The guides were helpful. The rooms tell the story of Samuel's life in Lichfield and in London. His silver shoe buckles can be seen close to pages from his dictionary. The room that he was born in can be visited.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Free to visit and an interesting building in its own right. The home of Lichfield's celebrated son whose statue graces the Market Place, if you knew nothing about Samuel before your visit you come out "almost knowing his inside leg measurement!"
A tourist attraction well worth visiting.
A tourist attraction well worth visiting.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This beautiful house stands on the corner of market square and was originally a bookshop and is now a bookshop once again. We were welcomed in by a very friendly lady who gave us a few tips on what to see and then left free to roam. Entry is free but they do ask for donations. As you go round the boards on the wall tell you all you need to know and there is a dvd on a loop that you can watch to gain more information.
Many people came in whilst we were there but mostly looking for books so it is good to see that is obviously well loved by the locals and used often.
I would go back again if only for the lovely atmosphere.
Many people came in whilst we were there but mostly looking for books so it is good to see that is obviously well loved by the locals and used often.
I would go back again if only for the lovely atmosphere.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited Samuel Johnson's Birthplace Museum whilst wandering around Lichfield. Rather shamefully we knew very little about him before visiting but enjoyed roaming around the house, all five floors of it. It's not too big and has a special "trail" for children, very doable in an hour or so. Entrance is free as well.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We came here last week with an Australian visitor, and were very pleasantly surprised to find that admission is free! (Of course, donations are welcome.) The volunteer who received us was extremely friendly and welcoming, and keen to explain things.
The house is fairly small, with a couple of rooms on each of five levels, and the displays are well laid out, and with good explanations. There is an audio-visual room, but unfortunately we were somewhat pressed for time and weren’t able to view the film. However, since there is no admission charge, we certainly intend to return.
The house is fairly small, with a couple of rooms on each of five levels, and the displays are well laid out, and with good explanations. There is an audio-visual room, but unfortunately we were somewhat pressed for time and weren’t able to view the film. However, since there is no admission charge, we certainly intend to return.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A very interesting place with lots of History and things to see. Another free place to see and visit. Thank You
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I look after the fire alarm system at this site ,so know the place very well,it's very interesting historic place ,its very informative with lots of interesting rooms to view . I have got to know all the staff there and they are very warm inviting people ,that are so helpful and kind.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We happened upon this museum on our way to Lichfield Cathedral. It was free to enter. Inside it is laid out as an 18th century house in which you climb up to the top finding out about Samuel Johnson's life. There is a really interesting video presentation telling you about Johnson on the first floor and then you continue the visit finding out more details through the people friendly exhibits.
A lovely little museum. Another must when visiting Lichfield.
A lovely little museum. Another must when visiting Lichfield.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My mother lived a few hundred yards from the museum from 1987 and this was our first visit!
A fascinating insight into Dr Johnson and to Lichfield in the 18th Century.
We actually called in to book an Easter Holiday activity for our 9 year old
grandaughter which is called SPY SCHOOL
Perhaps a further review will be required after that takes place.
A fascinating insight into Dr Johnson and to Lichfield in the 18th Century.
We actually called in to book an Easter Holiday activity for our 9 year old
grandaughter which is called SPY SCHOOL
Perhaps a further review will be required after that takes place.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Popped in here for the first time after over 30 years living in Lichfield! Wish I had not left it so long.....there are number of floors with exhibits showing the lives of Johnson, Garrick and other characters. A variety of activities for young children and enough to interest all ages.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The house were Samuel Johnson was born was well kept and worth a visit. It is quite a bit place and how the rooms were presented you could imagine how the family lives years ago
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Loves the amount of information there was I ha e definitely learnt a lot about Lichfield. I would definitely recommend it😀😀😀
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This museum is free of charge and explains a great deal about the life and times of Sam Johnson.
We were made welcome,upon entry, by knowledgable staff, who clearly took a pride in the establishment. It was on five floors and not easy to access by anyone disabled or infirm; however the items on show were interesting and explained clearly by wall mounted information.
There was a twelve minute film available to view.
A lovely way to pass an hour in an unassuming but charming city.
We were made welcome,upon entry, by knowledgable staff, who clearly took a pride in the establishment. It was on five floors and not easy to access by anyone disabled or infirm; however the items on show were interesting and explained clearly by wall mounted information.
There was a twelve minute film available to view.
A lovely way to pass an hour in an unassuming but charming city.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Despite their initial protestations, the children really enjoyed the house! A great little visit to break up the day!
Source: thebestof.co.uk
Fascinating tale of the great doctor. Very well done. An amazing story of an amazing man.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
Fascinating to learn about one of history's greatest and most influential people.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
very intresting person in kitchen scared me a bit
Source: google.com
Samuel Johnson a son of Lichfield
Source: google.com
Warm welcome. Very interesting and authentic building and contents. Recommended for children and adults.
Source: google.com
Its a bookshop
Thats a winner for a start off.
The history is displayed in a great way with av presentations and guides. Much effort is put into.this place. One snag is steep steps. Thats due to its age. Part of its history
Thats a winner for a start off.
The history is displayed in a great way with av presentations and guides. Much effort is put into.this place. One snag is steep steps. Thats due to its age. Part of its history
Source: google.com
