London: Architecture Tour of Benjamin Franklin House

Exploring the Benjamin Franklin House: An Architectural Journey Through Time

If you’re heading to London and have an interest in history, architecture, or just enjoy walking through a well-preserved historic home, the Benjamin Franklin House architecture tour might be just what you need. This experience is often praised for its friendly guides and fascinating insight into Franklin’s life and the Georgian features of the house. It’s a solid choice for those who want a deeper understanding of London’s history beyond the usual tourist spots.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the story of Benjamin Franklin with a detailed look at the house’s architecture and the conservation efforts that helped preserve it. Plus, the affordable price makes it accessible for most travelers. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the building isn’t wheelchair accessible due to its historic, multi-storey layout. So, if you or your travel companions have mobility issues, it’s worth planning ahead.

This tour suits anyone curious about Franklin’s stay in London, architecture lovers, or travelers seeking an educational, engaging activity that’s not overly touristy or commercialized. It’s a perfect fit if you enjoy stories behind historic homes, and you don’t mind a modest but informative hour-long tour.

Key Points

• Unique access to the only remaining residence of Benjamin Franklin.
• Rich Georgian and Victorian features preserved in a Grade I listed building.
• A knowledgeable and friendly guide enhances the experience.
• Historical insights into Franklin’s life and London during his time.
• Interactive elements like trying Franklin’s glass armonica.
• Affordable price point at just over $13 per person, including entry and tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Benjamin Franklin House Architecture Tour

When we look at this experience, it’s clear that it offers a balanced glimpse into both Franklin’s personal history and the architectural significance of his London residence. For anyone who loves understanding the context behind historic buildings or the stories of the figures who shaped history, this tour provides a satisfying blend.

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour begins at the knock on 36 Craven Street, right below the Benjamin Franklin House sign. It’s a straightforward start, and the staff are good about guiding you if you get lost or need more info. The meeting point is simple, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making it convenient for those with limited time or plans afterward.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about an hour, which is perfect for fitting into a busy day. The guide keeps things lively without overloading you with information, and the small group size ensures you can ask questions comfortably. Since it’s a live English-speaking guide, you get that nice personal touch and immediate responses to your curiosities.

Price and Value

Cost-wise, it’s a bargain at $13.47 per person. That includes entry to the house and the guided tour. With children under 12 going free, it’s a good option for families wanting to add a bit of history to their London trip without blowing the budget. The price point makes it a sensible choice for anyone looking for an authentic yet economical experience.

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The House and Its Features

The Benjamin Franklin House is a five-storey townhouse with a rich past. As a Grade I listed building, it boasts remarkable original Georgian and Victorian features. Visitors are encouraged to take photos, which is great for sharing your experience later, although flash photography is not allowed.

Given the building’s age and design, you’ll find the stairs uneven and sloping, with handrails on all staircases. Keep in mind that wheelchair access isn’t available due to the historic layout, and restroom access is downstairs in the basement. If mobility is a concern, plan accordingly.

What the Tour Covers

The journey through Franklin’s London home begins with his long residence from 1757 to 1775. Your guide will walk you through the various rooms, painting a picture of what life was like in the Georgian era.

• The Kitchen and Dining Areas: Here, the guide may share fascinating tidbits about Georgian cuisine and Franklin’s thoughts on the London diet. It’s a fun way to connect the historical lifestyle with the physical space.
• Rented Rooms and Margaret Stevenson’s Parlour: You’ll learn about Franklin’s relationship with the wealthy widow he rented from and the influential guests he met. The guide weaves personal stories that bring the house’s history alive.
• Franklin’s Personal Space (The Parlour): Franklin’s 16-year stay in this room is the highlight, revealing his experiments, political beliefs, and quirky personality. Visitors often find this part especially engaging.
• Glass Armonica Room: The end of the tour features Franklin’s famous instrument. You’re invited to try playing a tune, adding a fun, interactive element to the experience.

Throughout this tour, the guide’s knowledgeable and friendly approach shines. As one visitor put it, “Knowledgable and friendly guide,” which makes the experience both informative and enjoyable.

The Conservation Story

A key aspect of this visit is understanding the conservation project that saved the house from dereliction. Opened to the public in 2006, the house’s preservation is a testament to the importance of maintaining historic buildings. It’s inspiring to see such efforts, especially given the delicate nature of the Georgian architecture.

Additional Perks

Visitors are free to browse the gift shop, which offers souvenirs related to Franklin and the house. It’s a nice opportunity to pick up a memorable keepsake, though it’s not part of the core tour experience.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Allow at least an hour for the tour, so you can enjoy it without rushing.
• Wear comfortable shoes—the uneven stairs and floors are part of the experience.
• Children under 12 enter for free, making it suitable for families, though the house’s layout may be challenging for some.
• Photographs are encouraged, but no flash photography.
• Plan for the stairs and limited accessibility if needed.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy periods, and remember you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Franklin’s life in London. It’s also a good pick if you enjoy interactive, guided visits that combine storytelling with physical exploration. While not suitable for those with severe mobility issues, it presents a wonderful opportunity to appreciate a preserved piece of London’s Georgian past, all within a very reasonable budget.

FAQs

Is the Benjamin Franklin House tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 can enter for free, so families with kids who are interested in history or Franklin’s story will find it accessible. Just keep in mind the house’s layout with stairs and uneven floors.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour lasts about one hour, which is perfect if you’re looking for a concise but rich experience.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket grants you entry to the house and the hour-long guided tour with an opportunity for questions at the end.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos, but flash photography is not allowed.

Is there wheelchair access?
Unfortunately, due to the historic, multi-storey layout with uneven stairs, wheelchair access isn’t available.

What language are the tours conducted in?
All tours are in English.

Does the tour include any interactive elements?
Yes, at the end, guests can try playing Franklin’s glass armonica.

Are pets allowed inside?
Assistance dogs are permitted, but pets are not allowed.

What should I wear or prepare for?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because of the stairs and age of the building. No particular dress code is necessary.

In the end, the Benjamin Franklin House architecture tour offers much more than just a peek into Franklin’s London residence. It’s a chance to walk through a beautifully preserved historic building while learning about one of America’s most famous Founding Fathers and the Georgian era that shaped his life. With friendly guides and an affordable price, it’s an experience worth considering for a history-loving or architecture-curious traveler.

You can check availability for your dates here: