What's on in the area

Charles Dickens' Birthplace

1 May - 30 Sep 2010 (various dates)

Cost: £3.50; seniors £3; concessions & children £2.50

Hours: May-Sep: daily 10am-5.30pm
Dickens' birthday 7 Feb 10am-5pm

One of Britain's most famous authors, Charles Dickens began life in Portsmouth in 1812, where he stayed for just three years. The interior of the house in which he was born and is now set in the Regency style of the era.

The parlour, dining-room and bedroom where he was born are authentically furnished to replicate the Dickens' family abode, while an exhibition room holds valuable memorabilia such as the author's snuff box, inkwell and paper knife, and even the couch on which he died in his house in Kent.

The grown-up Charles Dickens returned to Portsmouth three times, to research background information for his novel Nicholas Nickleby, and later to give public readings of his works.

Please note: the house is closed from October to April inclusive, except for 7 February, Dickens' birthday.

Charles Dickens' Birthplace