Dennis Severs House - London

Have not been myself but had friends who have taken the tour. First off, the hours it's open are odd and the admission price varies. It is an art piece for the senses so yes, it is "an experience." There is no electricity and it is Mr. Sever's interpretation of a fictional family and how they lived in the 18th century. So you feel the cold, smell the urine in the chamber pot, see things via candle light, etc. Personally, for first timers, I'd make sure the Sir John Sloane Museum, the Treasure Room (Sir John C. Ritblatt Gallery) at the British Library, seeing Fortum and Mason's Xmas windows, Harrod's food halls, the Oxford Street Xmas Lights, enjoying a panto, (http://www.bigpantoguide.co.uk/london.php) and a catching a performance of The Mousetrap were all on the itinerary. Great city! Have fun!

I'm sorry, I've never heard of it.

I absolutely love this place. I think the motto of the place is something like, 'you either get it or you don't'. My friend and I came out, the door closed behind us and we both burst into tears. I assume that means we 'got it'! We were almost speechless. It is really impossible to explain what it is. Bear in mind that you have to walk around the house in silence and no children are allowed. I wouldn't call it a 'fun' experience though so I wouldn't take anyone who is looking for that. I found it deeply moving and it kind of messes with your mind.

Thank you Claudia & Laura for the replies. It sounds like something I would really like. My guess is my In laws won't get it but if I can endure another trip to Harrods (I know, it's great for London virgins) they can humor me for an hour. What Laura described is exactly what I have heard from others. Guess I'll just have to check it out for myself. Thanks Claudia for reminding me of the Sir John Soane museum. That would be awesome for my mother in law. She loves that stuff..and so do I. Thanks helpline!

I finally made it there on my last visit. It has very limited hours. I went during the day on a Monday, but they also have candlelight tours. Dennis Severs was a collector and he collected all kinds of household items from the 18th century. The house is put together as if a real family is living there. If you are intrigued by the objects of daily life, then you will find it interesting. It is a little bit out of the way from the main tourist sites so plan accordingly. I generally would not put this on the list for first-timers, but I think it really depends on their interests. If you like the Sir John Soane museum, then I would think you would like this.

This brings to mind the Snowshill Manor House in the Cotswolds which is full of collectibles. The Charles Dickens home is well worth a visit and most likely will be decorated for Christmas. Most interesting is his extensive family tree-I think he had nine children so there are many descendants.

Was moved by my visit (about 6 yrs ago). It is an artist's conception of an imagined family's life in the house in the 18th and 19th century. It doesn't pretend to impart textbook information, it is not a 'historic house' museum. The experience is more as if you've managed to dream yourself into a Cruikshank drawing. If you love Hogarth's prints or Dickens' novels, or enjoy Peter Ackroyd's novels AND his history books, then this place is for you. You have to participate -- relax, adjust to the dim lights and cloying smells, pet the cat (if it's still there), and just soak it up and go with it. If you've ever wished you could put your head in under Scrooge's bed canopy while the bells rang the hours, you must go. If that would sound silly to any of your party, choose a more traditional historic venue.

Fantastic description Francis! I think I understand now. Much better than the 'Dude, it's so cool. I can't explain it' response I have gotten from my friends. I'm going to have to make it this visit.