Charles Dickens Museum

The basics

Visitors to the Charles Dickens Museum have a range of options to explore the life of the renowned author. Some join private Charles Dickens–themed walking tours, which include stops at significant spots such as the Olde Curiosity Shop and Borough Market. You can also play Dickens–themed outdoor escape games or follow a self-guided audio tour. The museum can be visited during hop-on, hop-off bus tours as well, or as part of a pass granting access to multiple attractions in London.

Things to know before you go

• The museum welcomes wheelchair users and individuals with limited mobility, with staff assistance provided for using the elevator between floors.

• Due to narrow corridors and doorways, the space may not be accessible to some larger electric wheelchairs; please contact the museum for assistance.

• An accessible restroom with transfer handles is located on the 1st floor; a baby-changing facility is available in the same space.

• The historic house does not allow strollers or prams, which can be left in the cloakroom.

• The Curiosity Shop offers unique gifts, sourced from independent local suppliers, with proceeds supporting the museum's preservation efforts.

How to get there

The nearest tube station to the Charles Dickens Museum, Russell Square on the Piccadilly Line, is a 5-minute walk away. Other nearby stations include Chancery Lane (Central Line, 10-minute walk away) and Kings Cross/St Pancras Station (multiple lines, 15-minute walk away). Buses #7, #17, and #243 also stop nearby.

When to get there

The Charles Dickens Museum is open Wednesday–Sunday from morning to late afternoon, with the last entry 1 hour before closing; it’s also open most bank holiday Mondays. Check the website beforehand to see if there are any planned closures. Afternoons tend to be busiest, especially on the weekends.

Places linked to Charles Dickens in London

After immersing yourself in the world of Charles Dickens at the museum, continue your literary journey by exploring other places in London associated with the author. Wander through Seven Dials, once a slum but now a bustling tourist destination, which served as inspiration for Dickens' early work, Sketches by Boz. To experience the atmosphere of historic pubs frequented by Dickens himself, consider visiting The George in Southwark and Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Fleet Street.

Ways to explore

Most visitors to the Charles Dickens Museum explore the rooms and exhibits across its five floors independently, although the venue does sometimes offer guided tours and talks. Check its website for an up-to-date calendar of events.

Alternatively, join a walking tour dedicated to Dickens that visits sites associated with the author across London, such as the museum, The Old Curiosity Shop, and Borough Market. Literary-focused tours may also stop by the museum.

Accessibility

Most areas of the museum are wheelchair accessible via ramps and a lift, except for the top attic floor. There is an accessible restroom. The house has some narrow corridors, which may not be accessible for larger wheelchairs—contact the venue to check dimensions if this may impact your visit. Service animals are welcome.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Small bag, portable phone charger, contactless payment method

What to wear

Casual clothing, comfortable footwear

Not allowed

Strollers must be left in the cloakroom, flash photography, suitcases and large bags

Amenities

Café, baby-changing facilities, restrooms, cloakroom

Address

The museum is on Doughty Street, which is close to Russell Square tube station. It’s convenient to travel by public transport, or via hop-on hop-off bus tours or guided tours.

Driving

Driving isn’t recommended as the museum doesn’t have a car park, traffic in the area is consistently busy, and cars are subject to the Congestion Charge and ULEZ charge (if eligible). It’s much easier to travel by public transport or opt for a rideshare app.

Public transportation

Russell Square station is a 5-minute walk away, served by the Piccadilly line. Alternatively, take the Central line to Chancery Lane station, and walk for 10 minutes. Bus routes 7, 17, 19, and 243 all stop nearby.

Best times to visit

It’s best to come in the morning, close to opening time, to avoid peak afternoon crowds. Note that the last entry is an hour before closing.

Best days to visit

The museum typically opens Wednesdays through Sundays. School groups sometimes visit on weekdays, so there isn’t a guaranteed quieter time.

Best months to visit

Aim to visit between June and September for the best chance of good weather in London.

Special events

The museum hosts events year-round, so check the events calendar before visiting to see what’s on.