Once upon a time in Portsmouth, a son called Charles was born to John and Elizabeth Dickens. He was born in 1812 during the time of the Napoleonic Wars.
Twenty-five years later he was to publish his first novel, an immediate success which launched his career.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visitor Information

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Opening Times

April - September 10.00am - 5.30pm.
Last admission 30 minutes before closing time.

The Birthplace is closed from October to April inclusive, except for the following special opening dates:

Sunday 31 October 2010 - Special Halloween opening, with readings from some of Charles Dickens' ghostly stories on the hour (11.00am to 5.00pm). Usual admission charges apply, 10.00am - 6.00pm.

Monday 6 December - Friday 10 December 2010 - Special Christmas opening. Usual admission charges apply, 10.00am - 5.00pm.

Friday 11 February 2011 - Opening to mark the birthday of Charles Dickens, with special readings. Free admission. Times to be confirmed.

Come and hear readings of Charles Dickens' work

On the first Sunday of each month (April to September), come and hear readings from a selection of Charles Dickens' works, by members of the Dickens Fellowship. The readings are 'in the style of Dickens', and take place at 11.00am and 3.00pm, lasting around 45 minutes. Included in the usual admission price, no booking required.

Admission

UB40: Holders of UB40 admitted at student rate.
Senior Citizens: Concessions for adults aged 60 or over.
Children: Under 12 - free if accompanied by a full paying adult. Max 2 admitted free.

Location Maps

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Charles Dickens Birthplace
Visit the City Museums site
Visit the Natural History Museum Site
Visit the D-day museum site
Visit the Records Office site
Visit the Southsea Castle site
Visit the Portsmouth Museum Portal site