Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum & Bookshop

19/10/2026

19/10/2026

Best known as the author of A Dictionary of the English Language (1755), Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), or “Sam” as he was known to his friends, is one of the most quoted people in the history of the English language and remains one of the greatest literary figures of all time.
The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum is the house where Sam’s story begins. What was once a family home is now a museum dedicated to sharing his extraordinary journey, from curious child to national celebrity.
As you explore the museum’s rooms, you’ll discover the people, places, and events that shaped his life. Walk through the same spaces he once did, and step into the world that helped make Sam the person we remember today.

The Museum and Bookshop are open daily, 10:30am - 4:30pm. The Museum is free to visit—donations are welcome.

16/10/2026

Today’s word of the day!

14/10/2026

Did you know we have a newsletter? Stay in the loop with exciting updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses from the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.
To sign up, visit our website at samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk, then click on “Blog and Latest News”.

09/10/2026

Today’s word of the day! 📖

06/10/2026

This year we are celebrating our 125th anniversary as a museum with a new exhibition on the first floor of the Birthplace. The exhibition explores what happened to the building after Samuel’s death and how it was acquired by the City Council thanks to the generous actions of Lieutenant John Gilbert in 1900.
We have some wonderful things on display, including an auction poster from the sale of the building in 1887, a 1902 guidebook to the Birthplace Museum, and a poster from Lichfield’s very first official celebration of Sam’s birthday. We also have lots of images of the museum through the years — make sure you pay us a visit to see them!
We are open daily, 10:30am-4:30pm. We are free to visit, donations are welcome.

05/10/2026

Make someone smile by sending them one of our greetings cards - available from the Birthplace Bookshop. We have lots of designs to choose from, including our popular Story Book cards.
The Museum and Bookshop are open daily, 10:30am – 4:30pm. The Museum is free to visit, donations are gratefully received.