Dr Johnson's House

Dr Johnson’s House is Grade I listed and is one of the few residential houses of its age still surviving in the City of London. Built in 1700 by City wool merchant Richard Gough, it was a home and workplace for writer Dr Samuel Johnson between 1748 and 1759. It was here that he worked in the garret for many years to compile the first comprehensive English Dictionary, A Dictionary of the English Language, which was published in 1755.

Situated to the north of Fleet Street, the house is found amongst a maze of courtyards and passages that are a reminder of historic London. Having been restored to its original condition, the four-storey building has retained many of its period features including historic panelling, a fine open pine staircase, wooden floorboards, a quirky cellarette cupboard, coal holes and even the original door handles. As well as a research library, there are collections of period furniture, prints and portraits on display.

Location
Dr Johnson's House
17 Gough Square
The City
EC4

Location Map

Telephone
+44 (0)20 7353 3745

Getting There
Dr Johnson's House is tucked away in the historic courts and alleys off Fleet Street. It is signposted from Fleet Street and Fetter Lane.

The nearest stations are City Thameslink, Blackfriars and Farringdon.

Nearest Tube / Rail Station
Blackfriars

Bus Routes
4, 8, 11, 15, 17, 23, 25, 26, 45, 46, 76, 172, 242, 341

Access
Regrettably there is no wheelchair access to Dr Johnson's House due to the age of the building and the number of steps. A ground-level adapted toilet is available.

The audio-tour is available to visually impaired visitors free of charge.