Broadstairs holds a special place in the heart of Charles Dickens. Dickens first visited Broadstairs in 1837 and over the years, became a frequent visitor, developing a deep affection for the town. He rented a holiday home, Bleak House, which later became a setting for his novel of the same name. The town and its inhabitants left an indelible mark on his work, influencing characters, settings and even plotlines.
Today, the Dickens House Museum provides an insight into to Dickens’ relationship with Broadstairs. The museum preserves the memory of Dickens’ time in the town, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in his world and gain insight into the bond between the literary genius and the coastal retreat that he held dear.
Despite it being called the Dickens House Museum, the museum is not in Dickens’ former home, although the building still has a strong connection with Dickens. Charles Dickens a regular visitor to this cottage, which was his inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield.
Bleak House, Dickens’ former home in Broadstairs, is no longer open to the public and it is now used as a bed and breakfast, which means that while you can’t visit Dickens’ actual seaside home, you can stay there.
![The Dickens House Museum in Broadstairs was the home of Mary Peason Strong, a friend of Charles Dickens who was the inspiration for Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield. (Photo: Rob Farrow [CC BY-SA 2.0])](https://englandrover.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/dickens-house-museum-geograph.jpg)
What to see at the Dickens House Museum
The museum offers a glimpse into the life and works of one of England’s greatest novelists and it provides a tangible connection to the author’s creative journey and the inspiration he drew from this picturesque coastal town.
The museum’s collection includes Dickens’ writing desk and personal artefacts encompassing manuscripts, letters, rare editions and original artwork, shedding light on Dickens’ literary genius and the creative process behind his novels.
Visiting the Dickens House Museum
The Dickens House Museum is on Victoria Parade, right near the beach and close to the heart of the town centre. From here most other points of interest in Broadstairs are no more than a five minute walk away.
The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from Easter to early November and the admission charge is £4.50.
If you enjoyed your visit to the Dickens House Museum, you may also want to visit the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum in Portsmouth and the Charles Dickens Museum in London.
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Bleak House
As of January 2021, Bleak House is under new ownership as a private residence. After many years of neglect, it is being restored to its former glory.
15 October 2023