Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum is a Grade I listed townhouse with rooms furnished to show the family's life, plus exhibition spaces displaying objects and information about Johnson's work. The building conveys the everyday life of a merchant household of that era.

The house was built in the 17th century as a merchant's residence, and Johnson lived there during his formative years in the 18th century. His time there shaped his later work as a writer and lexicographer.

The museum shows Johnson's work as central to 18th-century literary life, and visitors can experience his importance to English language and literature directly. The displays reveal how his thinking shaped the culture of his time.

Visitors find the museum easily accessible in central Lichfield and can explore multiple floors, though accessing the first floor involves stairs. There is a bookshop on the ground floor for those wanting to purchase literature and publications.

The house stands next to the site of the former Guildhall Prison, a jail that operated for many centuries. This historical neighbor provides context for city life during Johnson's time.

Location: Lichfield

Inception: 1707

Operator: Dr Johnson's Birthplace Trust (Lichfield City Council)

Address: Market Square, Lichfield WS13 6LG

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:30-16:30

Website: http://samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 52.68348,-1.82800

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:04