London: Architecture Tour of Benjamin Franklin House

The Benjamin Franklin House in London offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the architectural elegance of the 18th century. Visitors can enjoy the Georgian-style grandeur, admiring the intricate plasterwork and delicate wrought-iron balustrade of the grand staircase. But the tour delves deeper, uncovering the Craven Street Bones and Hewsons Anatomy school, and inviting guests to play Franklin’s invention, the Glass Armonica. With limited accessibility, the experience encourages questions and photography, promising an engaging and thought-provoking look into the life and innovations of one of history’s most renowned figures.

Key Points

• The Benjamin Franklin House in London is an 18th-century Georgian-style building that served as Franklin’s residence for 16 years.
• The architecture tour explores the building’s history, including the Craven Street Bones and Hewsons Anatomy school.
• Visitors can try playing the Glass Armonica, Franklin’s invention, as part of the immersive experience.
• The tour offers insights into Franklin’s daily life and scientific pursuits during his time in the house.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven floors and staircases, but guide and hearing dogs are permitted.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Benjamin Franklin House

The Benjamin Franklin House in London is a Grade I listed building that features original Georgian and Victorian architectural features, and it remains the only surviving residence of the renowned American statesman and inventor who lived there for 16 years.

This historic home offers visitors an architecture tour that explores the building’s history and Franklin’s time as a resident. Guests can discover the Craven Street Bones and Hewsons Anatomy school, as well as have the opportunity to try playing the Glass Armonica, an instrument invented by Franklin.

With its uneven floors, stairs, and lack of wheelchair access, the Benjamin Franklin House provides a unique glimpse into 18th-century life in the heart of London.

Architectural Features and Historical Significance

Constructed in the Georgian style, the Benjamin Franklin House boasts a wealth of original architectural features that transport visitors back in time to when the renowned American statesman and inventor resided there for 16 years.

The home features:

1. Elegant sash windows adorned with decorative pediments
2. Intricate plasterwork and grandiose fireplaces in several rooms
3. Beautifully preserved wood floors and paneled walls
4. A grand staircase with a delicate wrought-iron balustrade

These original elements blend seamlessly with carefully curated Victorian additions, creating a harmonious and historically significant architectural experience.

The preservation of the Benjamin Franklin House allows modern audiences to meaningfully engage with the legacy of this Founding Father and the rich history embedded within its walls.

Tour Details and Duration

The architecture tour of the Benjamin Franklin House in London typically lasts approximately 1 hour, allowing visitors to thoroughly explore the building’s captivating history and Franklin’s 16-year residence.

During the tour, guests will discover the intriguing Craven Street Bones and the Hewsons Anatomy school, both connected to Franklin’s time in the house.

Visitors also have the unique opportunity to try playing the Glass Armonica, an instrument invented by Franklin himself.

The tour provides an immersive experience, encouraging guests to ask questions and take photos throughout the journey.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about this historic landmark, the architecture tour of the Benjamin Franklin House offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Exploring Franklin’s Residence and Discoveries

Beyond the tour’s duration, visitors can enjoy the captivating details of Benjamin Franklin’s 16-year residence at the historic Craven Street house.

During the tour, they’ll uncover the intriguing Craven Street Bones and the Hewsons Anatomy school, both closely tied to Franklin’s time in the house. Guests also have the unique opportunity to try playing the Glass Armonica, an instrument invented by the renowned polymath himself.

The tour reveals several intriguing discoveries from Franklin’s time at the Craven Street house:

1. The Craven Street Bones, a mysterious collection of human remains found in the house’s basement.
2. The Hewsons Anatomy school, where medical experiments were conducted in Franklin’s time.
3. Franklin’s own invention, the Glass Armonica, which visitors can attempt to play.
4. Insights into the daily life and scientific pursuits of this remarkable Founding Father.

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Pricing, Availability, and Booking Information

From $12.97 per person, the architecture tour of the Benjamin Franklin House in London offers visitors an affordable opportunity to explore the only remaining home of the legendary Founding Father.

Guests can conveniently check availability and reserve their spots online, with the option to book now and pay later.

While accessibility is limited due to uneven floors and stairs, the tour still welcomes guide and hearing dogs, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

The tour lasts approximately one hour and allows visitors to discover the building’s history, Franklin’s residence, the Craven Street Bones, and the Hewsons Anatomy school.

Plus, guests can try playing the Glass Armonica, a unique musical instrument associated with Franklin’s inventions.

Accessibility and Visitor Accommodations

Unfortunately, the Benjamin Franklin House poses some accessibility challenges, as the floors and stairs are uneven throughout the building. Wheelchair users can’t access the tour, and the only restrooms are located in the basement, without an accessible option.

However, the tour welcomes guide and hearing dogs, ensuring an inclusive experience for visitors with disabilities.

The key accessibility considerations include:

1. Uneven floors and staircases throughout the building.
2. No wheelchair access to the tour.
3. Restrooms only located in the basement, without an accessible option.
4. Guide and hearing dogs permitted to accommodate visitors with disabilities.

Despite these limitations, the tour strives to be as inclusive as possible, welcoming visitors with various accessibility needs.

Photography and Questions Encouraged

Visitors are encouraged to take photographs throughout the tour and ask questions to deepen their understanding of the property’s history and Benjamin Franklin’s time in residence. The expert guides welcome inquiries from guests, providing detailed and engaging responses to enrich the experience. A range of photographic opportunities await, from the elegant Georgian architecture to Franklin’s personal effects and the unique Glass Armonica. The tour encourages an interactive, immersive exploration of this historic landmark.

Photography Allowed	Question Opportunities
Throughout Tour	Guided Q&A
Exterior & Interior	Artifacts & Exhibits
Artifacts & Exhibits	Franklin’s Life & Work
Glass Armonica	Building History
Guided by Staff	Encouraged

Onsite Gift Shop and Children’s Admission

The Benjamin Franklin House features an onsite gift shop where guests can browse a selection of souvenirs and mementos related to Franklin’s life and the historic property.

Plus, children under the age of 12 can enter the architecture tour free of charge.

The gift shop offers a variety of items, including:

1. Replica 18th-century glassware, such as the Glass Armonica Franklin played during his time in London.
2. Books about Benjamin Franklin’s life, writings, and inventions.
3. Unique Franklin-themed apparel and accessories.
4. Educational toys and puzzles for children.

Whether you’re looking for a special memento or a gift for a young history enthusiast, the onsite gift shop at the Benjamin Franklin House provides the perfect opportunity to take a piece of this iconic residence home with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Visitors are generally not permitted to bring food or drinks on the tour. The tour focuses on exploring the historic building and learning about Benjamin Franklin’s residence, so outside items are not allowed inside. Visitors should check with the tour organizers for any exceptions.

Is There a Cloakroom or Luggage Storage Available?

The Benjamin Franklin House does not have a dedicated cloakroom or luggage storage facility. Visitors are advised to minimize personal belongings and be prepared to carry any items with them during the tour.

Are Any Photography or Video Recording Restrictions in Place?

Photography and video recording are generally permitted during the tour, though visitors are asked to avoid disrupting the experience for others. Restrictions may be in place in certain areas to preserve the historical integrity of the house.

Do You Offer Group Discounts or Special Rates?

Yes, the Benjamin Franklin House offers group discounts and special rates. Groups of 10 or more can receive a 10% discount on tour tickets. Plus, they provide special rates for school groups, seniors, and students.

How Long in Advance Should I Book the Tour?

Guests are encouraged to book the tour at least a few days in advance, as availability may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons. Early booking helps ensure your desired tour date and time are available.

Recap

The Benjamin Franklin House in London offers a unique architectural tour that immerses visitors in the building’s Georgian-style elegance and Franklin’s renowned residency.

While accessibility is limited, the tour provides an engaging exploration of Franklin’s history and inventions, including the opportunity to experience his Glass Armonica.

With photography encouraged and an onsite gift shop, the tour offers a captivating glimpse into the life and legacy of this celebrated Founding Father.

You can check if your dates are available here: