Dr Johnson's House

Built in the 1690s, this City of London townhouse at 17 Gough Square is a remarkably untouched time-capsule from the Age of Enlightenment. With original 17th-century features and an iconic history, the Grade I listed building is a unique venue in the heart of the historic London, just a stone’s throw from St Paul’s Cathedral. The house provides a charming and atmospheric setting for your drinks reception, dinner party or corporate event. Dr Samuel Johnson (1709–1784), one of the greatest literary figures of the eighteenth century, lived here when he compiled his famous Dictionary of the English Language, published in 1755. This publication was of crucial importance in the development of the English language.

The House is a remarkable story of survival, having been through many different uses over the centuries. By 1911 it had fallen into a sad state of disrepair, at which point it was saved for the nation and restored by Cecil Harmsworth, a Liberal MP. It was the only building in area to survive World War II, even though it was struck on several occasions. Today, your guests will be able to explore the incredible stories of this historic house and its occupants whilst enjoying exclusive hire.

With original 17th-century features and an iconic history, it is a unique venue in the heart of London with a long history of entertaining, providing a charming and atmospheric setting for hosting a variety of different corporate and private events. Perfectly situated with easy access to both the City and the West End, our four-storey historic house is available to hire for private events in the evenings, mornings and all day Sundays. Curator’s talks are available for an additional fee.

Maximum capacity dinner – 40
Maximum capacity drinks reception – 80
Maximum capacity seated theatre-style – 35

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