London: Architecture Tour of Benjamin Franklin House

London’s architecture enthusiasts are in for a treat with the captivating Benjamin Franklin House tour. This one-hour guided experience offers a unique glimpse into the life of the renowned statesman, scientist, and inventor. Explore the historic Craven Street townhouse where Franklin resided for 16 years, admire the original Georgian façade and intricate interiors, and uncover the fascinating Craven Street Bones. The tour’s $13.37 price tag promises an engaging journey through London’s rich architectural and historical heritage. Prepare to be intrigued, as this tour unveils the hidden secrets of one of the city’s most fascinating figures.

Good To Know

• The architectural tour of Benjamin Franklin House in London provides an immersive experience of the Georgian and Victorian era interiors, including intricate plasterwork ceilings and ornate fireplaces.
• The 16-year residency of Benjamin Franklin at the historic Craven Street townhouse offers insights into his daily life, scientific experiments, and political beliefs during the 18th century.
• The discovery of over 1,000 bones from at least 14 individuals during the property’s conservation project highlights the lesser-known aspects of 18th-century medical practices and the Craven Street Anatomy School.
• The architectural tour is priced at $13.37 per person and lasts approximately one hour, with the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The property’s accessibility is limited due to the original architecture, with uneven floors, narrow staircases, and no wheelchair-accessible restrooms, but concessionary tickets are available for visitors with disabilities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Benjamin Franklin House offers an architectural tour that takes visitors on a journey through the life and times of the renowned statesman.

The tour costs $13.37 per person and lasts about an hour. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the only remaining home where Franklin lived, a Grade I listed building with original Georgian and Victorian features that was opened to the public in 2006 after a meticulous conservation project.

Historical Significance

Benjamin Franklin’s Craven Street townhouse remains the only existing home where the renowned polymath resided, having occupied the premises for 16 years between 1757 and 1775.

This Grade I listed building, with its original Georgian and Victorian features, underwent a comprehensive conservation project that opened the House to the public in 2006.

Visitors can explore the historic Anatomy school and learn about the Craven Street Bones, a fascinating chapter in Franklin’s life.

The House provides a unique glimpse into the daily life and work of this Founding Father, showcasing his scientific experiments, political beliefs, and family relationships.

Architectural Highlights

A fascinating aspect of the Benjamin Franklin House is its well-preserved architectural features, which provide a glimpse into the Georgian and Victorian eras. Visitors can marvel at the original Georgian facade, with its characteristic red bricks and large windows. Inside, the home showcases a mix of Georgian and Victorian elements, including intricate plasterwork ceilings, ornate fireplaces, and narrow, winding staircases. A standout feature is Franklin’s Parlour, which has been meticulously restored to its 18th-century glory, complete with period furnishings and decor. Exploring these architectural details offers a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine the house as it would have been during Franklin’s residency.

Architectural Feature	Georgian Era	Victorian Era
Facade	Red bricks, large windows	–
Interiors	Plasterwork ceilings, ornate fireplaces	Narrow staircases
Franklin’s Parlour	Period furnishings and decor	–
Preservation	Well-preserved	Well-preserved
Immersive Experience	Transports visitors to 18th century	Transports visitors to 18th century

Franklin’s Residence and Activities

Franklin’s 16-year residency at the Craven Street townhouse was a formative period marked by his diverse intellectual and diplomatic pursuits.

As a wealthy widow’s tenant, Franklin engaged in groundbreaking scientific experiments, honed his political beliefs, and maintained close family ties.

Visitors can explore the historic parlour where he entertained guests and delved into his passions, from the innovative Glass Armonica to his views on London’s culinary culture.

The guided tour also unveils the intriguing story of the "Craven Street Bones," uncovered during a conservation project and linked to Franklin’s association with an anatomy school run by surgeon William Hewson.

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Craven Street Bones and Anatomy School

The discovery of the "Craven Street Bones" during a conservation project at the historic townhouse has added an intriguing layer to the property’s legacy.

These excavated remains shed light on the work of Dr. William Hewson, an 18th-century anatomist who operated a private anatomy school on the premises.

The findings include:

1. Over 1,000 bones, belonging to at least 14 individuals, uncovered in the basement.
2. Evidence that Hewson used the property to conduct anatomical dissections and teach students the science of the human body.
3. Insights into the medical practices and attitudes towards death and the body during Franklin’s time.

This macabre yet fascinating element of the house’s history offers visitors a glimpse into the lesser-known aspects of life in 18th-century London.

Visitor Amenities and Experience

Visitors to the Benjamin Franklin House can expect an immersive, personalized tour experience that brings the historic property to life.

For just $13.37 per person, guests will enjoy a guided exploration of Franklin’s remarkable history and the house itself, from the 1730s to the present day.

The tour lasts approximately one hour and includes insights into Franklin’s experiments, political beliefs, and family relationships, as well as the opportunity to play a tune on his famous Glass Armonica.

Amenities include a gift shop for souvenirs and seating in the historic rooms, though accessibility is limited due to the building’s original Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Accessibility and Guidelines

Located in a historic five-storey townhouse, the Benjamin Franklin House presents unique accessibility considerations. The building features uneven and sloping floors, making it inaccessible for wheelchair users.

However, the House provides handrails on the staircases and seating in the historic rooms to assist visitors. Additionally:

1. Restrooms are located in the basement, with no accessible option available.
2. Visitors with disabilities can purchase concessionary tickets, and carers are admitted for free.
3. The House adheres to strict guidelines, prohibiting smoking, vaping, drinks, flash photography, and more, to preserve the historic property.

Despite these challenges, the Benjamin Franklin House strives to accommodate all visitors and offer a memorable architectural tour experience.

Getting to the Benjamin Franklin House

Getting to the Benjamin Franklin House is straightforward, as it’s conveniently situated in the heart of central London.

The tour meeting point is located at 36 Craven Street, just a short walk from both Embankment and Charing Cross stations. Tube and train links make it easily accessible from across the city.

Paid parking is available nearby, though public transport is recommended to avoid the hassle of driving in London’s busy city center.

Once you arrive, look for the Benjamin Franklin House sign above the entrance. The historic townhouse is easy to spot, standing as a testament to the life and legacy of the renowned statesman and inventor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the House?

No, flash photography is not allowed inside the historic Benjamin Franklin House. However, visitors are welcome to take non-flash photos to capture their experience and memories of the guided tour.

Is There a Audio Guide Available for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide an audio guide, but you can enjoy a live guided exploration of the historic house. The knowledgeable guides will share insights and stories about Benjamin Franklin’s time there during the hour-long tour.

Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?

Yes, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance. Reservations can be made online with no upfront payment, allowing you to secure your spot and pay later. Same-day tickets may be available but advance booking ensures availability.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks. The tour guidelines prohibit visitors from bringing any drinks, alcohol, or food into the historic house. Snacks and beverages aren’t allowed to help preserve the building’s condition.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes. The tour involves walking on uneven floors, so casual, practical attire is recommended. Visitors can explore the historic house freely within the provided guidelines.

Sum Up

The Benjamin Franklin House tour offers a captivating glimpse into the life of this renowned statesman and inventor. Visitors can explore the historic Georgian townhouse, admire the original interiors, and learn about Franklin’s scientific experiments and the Craven Street Bones. It’s a unique journey through London’s architectural and historical heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in American history and 18th-century architecture.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby