Local Reviews
In February 2015, slater45 said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
Viisit, do! But read up about this unique fellow first. His birthplace is now a specialist bookshop to him and his era, and a museum. The museum (original rooms of the house) comprise basement, ground floor, first and second floor and space under the eaves. The building itself is fascinating, and the staircases a bit tricky for someone with a degree of mobility problems. On the day we visited the man on duty was very friendly but also very helpful and informative and only too willing to answer questions. The artefacts in the rooms give a good insight into Samuel Johnson the man, and his life and times. The house/museum (worth a detour!) is on the corner of a small square, and next to a church, itself of interest and with a good cafe serving decent food.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2015, Marilyn D said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
Informative well planned exhibition of Lichfield's most famous son, the lexicographer Samuel Johnson set in his birthplace, in an eighteenth century house which also housed his father's bookshop. Lively, interactive displays. It often holds events for all the family. Right in the centre of the city on the Market Square. Unfortunately, no wheelchair access or lift; there are a number of steep stairs to climb.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2015, BronwynH621 said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
A wonderful little museum detailing the life of the great lexicographer.
The museum is centrally located in Lichfield and is a short walk from the railway station. There are plenty of coffee shops in the vicinity for a pre (or post) visit snack.
My visit was, however, spoilt by a group of "unaccompanied minors" who rampaged and shouted through the house without any thought for other visitors or for the history and significance of the house.
The attendant on duty at the desk said she could see the children larking around in the house (via CCTV) but did nothing to stop,them as her manager has directed her not to do so. She did, however, agree they were a problem and that she thought they saw the house as somewhere to escape from the cold weather at no cost.
I would recommend the museum, however strongly urge the custodians to deny entry to minors not accompanied by an adult.
The museum is centrally located in Lichfield and is a short walk from the railway station. There are plenty of coffee shops in the vicinity for a pre (or post) visit snack.
My visit was, however, spoilt by a group of "unaccompanied minors" who rampaged and shouted through the house without any thought for other visitors or for the history and significance of the house.
The attendant on duty at the desk said she could see the children larking around in the house (via CCTV) but did nothing to stop,them as her manager has directed her not to do so. She did, however, agree they were a problem and that she thought they saw the house as somewhere to escape from the cold weather at no cost.
I would recommend the museum, however strongly urge the custodians to deny entry to minors not accompanied by an adult.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2015, Stuart C said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
One of Lichfields ‘Four for Free’ museums that brag of the city’s association with Erasmus Darwin and Samuel Johnson. Friendly museum with plenty to hold your attention on five floors of what is an interesting building in it’s own right. Worth keeping an eye out for the art classes and extra events it stages throughout the year.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2015, Margaret C said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
What a great experience for free too!
A lovely visit to show the life of Dr Johnson with several floors to explore, even a video to watch to make it more informative. The staff are friendly and very helpful you can even buy books and other memento's if you wish, but no pressure!
To add to it there are other activities to celebrate various times in his life, plus regular book reading sessions, drama and art classes.
This is definitely not to be missed when visiting the beautiful city of Lichfield.
A lovely visit to show the life of Dr Johnson with several floors to explore, even a video to watch to make it more informative. The staff are friendly and very helpful you can even buy books and other memento's if you wish, but no pressure!
To add to it there are other activities to celebrate various times in his life, plus regular book reading sessions, drama and art classes.
This is definitely not to be missed when visiting the beautiful city of Lichfield.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2015, SimonLichfield said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
This little gem of a museum is easily forgotten in the hustle and bustle of Lichfield. Step through the door however and you are instantly transported back in time time to the era of Samuel Johnson. Well worth a visit and run by, I'm guessing volunteers who genuinely care that you make the most of your visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2015, flobolob said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
In the historic heart of the city of Lichfield it can be easy to miss now that most of the centre has been pedestrianised. It is open most of the year and is well worth a visit. Entrance is free and it is manned by very helpful and friendly staff. It is well worth spending an hour or more looking at the many exhibits and information about Samuel Johnson spread over four storeys.The rooms have been well furnished with exhibits and some of the rooms have been presented as re-creations as they might have been in Dr Johnson's time and they have been fairly well done. The ground floor is also a tastefully done bookshop. It is well worth a visit as an attraction in itself but also as a reminder of someone who made a major contribution to the literary culture and history of Britain and the English Language.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2015, Di20 said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
This is free entry so if in Lichfield it's absolutely worth 40 minutes of your time. It is quite interactive and informative and some interesting original pieces on display. You can review modern words in Mr Johnson's original dictionary which is fun for children to see how definitions have changed. The house is interesting in its self just to look around too.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2015, Stefano915 said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
As you walked in you are welcome by a lady very helpful and polite. You can tell these people care and they are happy to be there. As you make your way to the top you get sucked into the life stories of Samuel Johnson and his extraordinary life. Interesting video to watch. If it gets too packed it can be hard to follow your route.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2015, Stuart M said about The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
Enjoyed a marvellous visit to the Johnson Birthplace Museum last weekend. A big, friendly greeting, fascinating displays and even a dressing up section on the top floor. I especially liked the guide's eagerness about Samuel Johnson and the superb bookshop.
Well worth a repeat visit and makes for a great day out along with the nearby Cathedral
Well worth a repeat visit and makes for a great day out along with the nearby Cathedral
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk