The Museum of the Home, formerly known as the Geffrye Museum, is a historical museum located in East London, UK. It is dedicated to the study of the home and its history, interior design, and architecture. This museum is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors an insight into British history and culture, particularly the Victorian era.
History
The Museum of the Home was founded in 1914 and is housed in the former almshouses of the Ironmongers’ Company, which were built in 1714. The museum was originally known as the Geffrye Museum, named after Sir Robert Geffrye, the Lord Mayor of London in 1710. The museum was established to help preserve the cultural heritage of the area, and to provide an educational resource for the public.
Attractions
The Museum of the Home has several permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore the history and culture of the home. The museum’s permanent exhibitions include:
- The Geffrye Collection, which includes furniture, textiles, ceramics, and other artifacts from the 16th to the 20th centuries.
- The Garden Room, which displays a variety of plants, flowers, and other garden items from the Victorian era.
- The Period Rooms, which showcases how people lived in different eras, from the 1600s to the present day.
- The Archive and Study Centre, which houses a collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and other materials related to the history of the home.
The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions that explore different aspects of home life, from furniture and interior design to architecture and cultural heritage.
What to Expect
When visiting the Museum of the Home, visitors can expect to explore a variety of exhibits and displays. The museum offers a range of activities for visitors, including guided tours, hands-on workshops, and interactive displays. The museum also hosts a range of events, such as lectures, talks, and performances.
Tours
The Museum of the Home offers a variety of guided tours, which are available to both individuals and groups. The tours provide an in-depth look at the history of the home and its architecture, and offer visitors the chance to explore the museum’s collections in greater depth.
Admission
Admission to the Museum of the Home is free. Visitors can purchase tickets for the guided tours, which cost £7 for adults and £5 for children.
Tips for Tourists
- The Museum of the Home is located in East London, so it is best to plan your visit in advance to ensure you have enough time to explore the museum.
- The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
- The museum offers a range of activities and events, so check the website for details before you visit.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
- The museum offers a range of educational resources for schools and other educational institutions.
Practical Information
The Museum of the Home is located at 136 Kingsland Road, London, E2 8EA. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 5pm. The nearest tube station is Hoxton, which is a short walk away. The museum is also served by several bus routes.
