Benjamin Franklin House

Prior to being opened as a museum, human remains of over 15 bodies were found buried in the basement of Benjamin Franklin House. Tests show that these remains were buried here at the same time that Benjamin Franklin was living in the house. It is believed that one of Franklin’s close friends, anatomist William Hewson, was responsible for the bodies although it is also likely that Franklin knew about them.

What to see at Benjamin Franklin House

This hidden gem is an interesting small museum.

There are two ways to experience the house, either by taking one of the architecture tours that run on Fridays or by taking one of the popular historical experience tours that run on weekends (and some Tuesdays).

The historical experience tours are a cross between a guided tour and a theatre performance. The experience consists of actors in historical dress; Polly Hewson (the daughter of Benjamin Franklin’s landlady) is the show’s main character but there are also actors playing other characters including Benjamin Franklin and his wife, Deborah. The experience provides an interesting insight into the historic events that led to the United States’ declaration of independence.

The house has fascinating exhibits about Franklin’s work and his historical contributions to both science and politics plus an interesting display about the bones that were discovered in the basement of the house.

Visiting Benjamin Franklin House

Benjamin Franklin House is located on Craven Street just around the corner from Charing Cross station and a five-minute walk from Trafalgar Square. It is a one-minute walk from Charing Cross railway station, a five-minute walk to Embankment tube station and a three-minute walk to Trafalgar Square.

The architectural tour is free to visitors with a valid London Pass.

It is a small museum that most visitors can see in a one-hour visit.