London’s five best historic houses

Step back in time and discover what life was like for the rich, powerful and downright posh at these incredible historic houses.

With London being home to some of the country’s most iconic historic properties, why not make a weekend trip to the capital and discover these top cribs? Bag the cheapest train tickets to London Paddington when you plan ahead and continue your journey to these awesome houses on foot or local transport.

Ham House and Garden

Rumoured to be one of the most haunted houses in Britain, Ham House is an atmospheric Stuart mansion located on the banks of the River Thames in Richmond. Built in 1610 and transformed into the house we see today by Elizabeth Murray, Countess of Dysart, who lived there during the 17th century, Ham House has not only lived through civil and world wars, but has largely escaped interfering hands, and the residence retains much of its original appearance.

Filled with an excellent collection of paintings, furniture and textiles, Ham House is an impressive property with a beautiful walled garden, well worth exploring.
nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house-and-garden

Keats House

Formerly known as Wentworth Place, Keats House in Hampstead is most famous for being home to English poet John Keats, from December 1818 to August 1820. It was in this gorgeous property that he wrote some of his greatest poems including ‘Ode to a Nightingale’. Now, Keats House is a museum and literary centre where you can explore the poet’s life and work through original manuscripts, artefacts and exhibitions.
keatsfoundation.com/keats-house-hampstead

Benjamin Franklin House

The world’s only remaining home of Benjamin Franklin resides in London at 36 Craven Street. Famous for his investigations into electricity and for helping to draft the US Declaration of Independence and Constitution, it’s of no minor significance that London is able to pay homage to the great man’s life work. The doors to this historical property first opened to the public back in 2006 and is to this day a cracking museum that highlights the tumultuous times in which he lived.
benjaminfranklinhouse.org

Kenwood House

First built in the 1600s, and significantly developed and modified throughout the following centuries, Kenwood House reopened to the public in 2013 and has finally been restored to reflect its magnificent Georgian heritage. Home to a world-famous art collection, acres of beautiful grounds and a café that serves top notch cakes, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy during a day trip to Kenwood.
english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/kenwood

Strawberry Hill House

Prepare to be wowed by the awesome architecture of Strawberry Hill House, which wouldn’t look out of place in a fairy-tale kingdom. This incredible Georgian gothic castle first came about when, in 1747, it was bought by eccentric Earl and author Horace Walpole. It now houses many famous paintings and artworks while also hosting fun events for visitors throughout the year.
strawberryhillhouse.org.uk