Now, I know that the term ‘hidden gem’ gets chucked about rather liberally in London these days. But very few of the city’s spots define the phrase quite as flawlessly as this one. Sat surreptitiously on a Spitalfields side-street is a Grade II listed Georgian building. Part home, part museum, part theatrical backdrop, and part time machine; having a nosey inside this eccentric east end establishment is one of London’s most unique immersive experiences. And not just because you usually had to do so in total silence (but more on that later).
So, if you love stepping back in time, sparking your imagination, and snooping around other people’s gaffs; please allow me to point you in the weird and wonderful direction of Dennis Severs’ House.
Dennis Severs’ House
The house itself dates back to 1724, but was snapped up by Dennis Severs in 1979. Severs supposedly moved into the pad with nothing more than a candle, a chamber pot, and a bed roll. But he also possessed the ambition to create something truly special. Severs got to work, breathing new life into the formerly derelict house, filling it to the brim with all sorts of historic objects and artefacts, and transforming it into somewhat of a museum. Severs almost immediately opened his home to visitors, offering tours around the space.
The concept of the home follows the life of a fictitious family of Huguenot silk weavers. Because why not, hey? Spanning multiple centuries and generations of the Jervis (Gervais) family; the house was meticulously styled to create a multi-sensory storyline for visitors. Just before Dennis Severs passed away in 1999, he sold the house back to the Spitalfields Trust, who still look after it to this very day.
The house remains almost exactly as it was when Dennis died almost 30 years ago. Bursting at the seams with 18th and 19th century objects and astonishing interiors, the space instantly transports you back in time. With unmade beds, half-written letters, and unfinished food and drink scattered around; it truly feels as though the family have quickly popped out, and you’re having a speedy snoop inside whilst they’re gone.
There are a few different ways in which you can pay a visit to Dennis Severs’ House, most of which require you to explore the home in complete silence, in order to soak up every single scent, sound, and site. There are also more relaxed visits available where discrete conversation is permitted, and private tours are also on offer. Whichever visit you opt for, you’re sure to be in for an absolute treat.
Find out more and plan your visit to Dennis Severs’ House here.
đź“Ť18 Folgate Street, Spitalfields, E1 6BX
🚇 Nearest station is Liverpool Street
