I recommend a stop at the Charles Dickens birthplace museum in Portsmouth. Check the website for opening days and times, then call. When I arrived on Friday, groups of French students were waiting their turn to enter the small house. I was told it was closed because of the groups but when I mentioned how far I had come, they let me in.
You enter below street level into what was the kitchen and is now reception and tiny gift shop. The desk staff mention a few words about the house and direct you upstairs. There’s a sitting room, dining room, and bedrooms. Multi-language cards are available to describe each room.
The furnishings are mostly from the early 1800s. Charles Dickens and his family lived here during his early childhood. You will see attention to detail in the wallpaper and curtains. There are a few portraits of Dickens on the walls.
Tips and suggestions
Because of the small house, its best not to enter as a large group.
Photography is permitted throughout except for one item-ask for information.
Credit cards are accepted but I had to wait for staff to end a phone call for processing on the one line.
There are toilets near reception. And they looked clean.
Website: http://www.charlesdickensbirthplace.co.uk/
