Located in the heart of Hoxton, London, the Museum of the Home, formerly known as the Geffrye Museum, is a unique London attraction that offers a fascinating journey through the history of English domestic interiors. This history museum, housed in 18th-century almshouses, showcases a series of period rooms from the 1600s to the present day, providing a captivating insight into the way homes have been used and furnished over the past 400 years. With its focus on the home and the way people live, the museum offers a different perspective on London’s cultural heritage, making it one of the must-visit things to do in London.
History of the Museum
The Museum of the Home was originally established as the Geffrye Museum in 1914. The museum is named after Sir Robert Geffrye, a former Lord Mayor of London and Master of the Ironmongers’ Company, who built the almshouses in 1714 that now house the museum. In 2020, the museum underwent a major redevelopment and was renamed the Museum of the Home to better reflect its mission to explore and reveal the multiple narratives of home and engage with issues of belonging, inequality, and environmental sustainability.
What to See and Do
The Museum of the Home offers a range of museum exhibitions and activities that cater to all ages and interests. Here are some of the highlights:
- Period Rooms: The museum’s main attraction, these rooms showcase the changing style of English domestic interiors from the 1600s to the present day. Each room is furnished and decorated to reflect the tastes and lifestyles of the time.
- Gardens: The museum is surrounded by a series of period gardens that complement the period rooms. These gardens reflect the changing styles of urban middle-class gardens over the centuries.
- Special Exhibitions: The museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, exploring different aspects of home life and interior design.
- Workshops and Events: The museum offers a range of workshops, talks, and events for adults and families, providing opportunities to learn more about the history of homes and get involved in hands-on activities.
Visiting the Museum
The Museum of the Home is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free, although donations are welcome. Guided tours are available, offering a deeper insight into the history of the museum and its collections. The museum also has a café and a shop where visitors can buy books, gifts, and homewares inspired by the museum’s collections.
Tips for Tourists
Here are some practical tips for tourists planning to visit the Museum of the Home:
- Plan your visit in advance and check the museum’s website for the latest information on opening times and special exhibitions.
- Allow at least two hours for your visit to fully explore the museum and its gardens.
- If you’re visiting with children, check out the museum’s family activities and resources to help make your visit more enjoyable and educational.
- Don’t forget to visit the museum’s café for a refreshing break and the shop for unique souvenirs.
In conclusion, the Museum of the Home offers a unique and engaging exploration of London’s domestic history, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history, interior design, or simply looking for something different to do in London.
