Charles Dickens is one of the most celebrated authors in English literature. He is best known for his vivid depictions of London and its people in the 19th century.
Many of his novels, including “Oliver Twist,” “David Copperfield,” and “Great Expectations,” are set in the city. But where did Dickens live in London? In this article, we will explore the places he called home and how they influenced his writing.
Early Life
Dickens was born on February 7, 1812, in Portsmouth, England. His family moved to London when he was just a child, settling in the Camden Town neighborhood.
They lived in a house on Bayham Street, which is still standing today. However, they only stayed there for a short time before moving to other parts of the city.
Residences
Throughout his life, Dickens lived in many different parts of London. Some of his most famous and influential works were written while he resided at these locations.
48 Doughty Street
In 1837, Dickens moved into a house at 48 Doughty Street with his wife Catherine and their children. This was the first home that Dickens owned and it is now known as the Charles Dickens Museum. It is open to visitors who want to see how the author lived and worked during this time.
While living at Doughty Street, Dickens wrote some of his most popular novels including “Oliver Twist” and “Nicholas Nickleby.” The house has been preserved as it would have looked during Dickens’ time there.
Tavistock House
After leaving Doughty Street in 1851, Dickens moved to Tavistock House in Bloomsbury with his family. This was another home that he owned and it was here that he wrote some of his most acclaimed works such as “Bleak House” and “Little Dorrit.”
Tavistock House was also the location of Dickens’ private theater where he performed plays with his family and friends. The house has since been demolished, but a plaque marks the site where it once stood.
Gad’s Hill Place
In 1856, Dickens purchased Gad’s Hill Place in Kent, just outside of London. This was a home that he had admired since childhood and he was thrilled to finally be able to own it. He lived there with his family until his death in 1870.
Dickens wrote several novels while living at Gad’s Hill including “A Tale of Two Cities” and “Great Expectations.” The house is still standing today and is privately owned.
Conclusion
Charles Dickens lived in many different parts of London throughout his life. Each location had an impact on him and influenced his writing in different ways. From his first home on Bayham Street to Gad’s Hill Place, Dickens’ residences provide a glimpse into the life of one of England’s most beloved authors.