WHAT? Christmas at the London Home of Charles Dickens 

WHERE? The Charles Dickens Museum, 48-49 Doughty Street, London WC1N 2LX

WHEN? Now until 5th January  (check performance times online) 

WHY GO? For a cracking good story. Feel the spirit of Christmas past and present in the former home of Dickens, whose love of celebrating the festive season is renowned. 

What would Christmas be without his heartwarming tale, A Christmas Carol that has inspired generations?

For full-on Dickens festive nostalgia, his home (now museum) is bedecked with garlands, ribbons, twinkly lights and an enthralling programme of storytelling sessions plus the popular Dickensian Christmas Tour, guided by none other than Dicken’s old pal John Forster, no not up from his grave but convincingly performed by the museums guides.

Soak up the atmosphere of an authentic Dickens Christmas where his Dining Room is lavishly set for their sumptuous family lunch and marvel at his writing room where the pewter jug he mixed his favourite punch tipple sits ready for him alone, as apparently no-one else was allowed a sip!

Comforting and cosy, the house is a step back in history, just what world weary Londoners might crave during this hectic season.

For hardcore Dickens fans, A Christmas Carol is being performed live by award winning actor James Swanton throughout the lead up to the big day when Christmas Eve is extra special and visitors are treated to mince pies and mulled wine plus a chance to win a bumper hamper.

There’s nothing Scrooge can do about that!

IN THE KNOW Newly acquired letters that re-establish Dickens' love for Christmas are on show for the first time . They include a poignant note from his sister-in-law Georgina Hogarth lamenting that the family ‘don’t keep Christmas at all now‘ after he died in 1870.