Benjamin Franklin House

36 Craven Street. (Open Map)
(75)

Description

Visiting the modest house southeast of Trafalgar Square where American statesman Benjamin Franklin lived from 1757 to 1775 is only possible by taking a guided tour. The tours, which depart at noon, 1pm, 2pm, 3.15pm and 4.15pm Wednesday to Sunday (with architectural tours on Monday only), are conducted by a costumed guide who plays Polly Stevenson, the daughter of Franklin's landlord, Margaret. Unfortunately, the house is empty, with only a few items associated with Franklin on display. Franklin lived in the house while attempting to broker peace with Britain and (unsuccessfully) avert war.