BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HOUSE, London – Architectural Tour – Private Guided Tour

Please do join me for a private ARCHITECTURAL tour of the BENJAMIN FRANKLIN HOUSE in Craven Street, near Charing Cross station in London. This is the world’s only remaining home of Dr Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), the Founding Father of the United States of America.

July 4th 2026 marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America, so this is a significant year to enjoy a private tour of this house that Franklin called home during his years in London. We’ll see several artefacts belonging to Franklin and learn about his time in the UK as Chief Colonial Diplomat, when his time here encompassed much more than politics.

Our Architectural Tour explores the house’s fascinating history, including its origins as a lodging house and Franklin’s long residence here from 1757-1775.

We’ll also learn about the gruesome history of the Hewson anatomy school, which was based in the house in the late 18th century.

Most of the interiors of the earlier houses on Craven Street (c. 1730-35) are panelled (see Benjamin Franklin’s parlour – below). The chief rooms, including hall and stairs, have “fielded” panels in two heights divided by a chair rail and completed with a fine moulded cornice. The upper rooms are generally finished with plain panelling. 

During the 20th century, the house served as a hotel and a base for several non-profit groups. By the end of the century, when the Friends of Benjamin Franklin House were granted the freehold to 36 Craven Street from the British government, the property was in dire condition.

We’ll hear how, in 1998, the management team, numerous organisations and many volunteers worked tirelessly on a conservation project that saved this now Grade-1 listed house from dereliction.

36 Craven Street is a Grade I listed building, which retains many of its original features, including the staircase, floorboards, wall panelling, and fireplaces.  This should be a fascinating morning as we learn more about this important building and reflect on Benjamin Franklin’s legacy.

Image credits: Main image: Portrait of Benjamin Franklin by David Martin 1767 – public domain – all other  images courtesy of Benjamin Franklin House Museum