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Keats House: The Romantic Poet’s Sanctuary in Hampstead

Step into the Regency home where John Keats penned timeless poetry and found love, surrounded by tranquil gardens and literary history.

4.5

Keats House, located at 10 Keats Grove in London’s Hampstead, is the historic Regency villa where Romantic poet John Keats lived from 1818 to 1820. This beautifully preserved museum offers visitors a glimpse into Keats’s life, his creative process, and his love story with Fanny Brawne. The house features period furnishings, original manuscripts, and a tranquil garden where Keats wrote some of his most famous poems.

A brief summary to Keats House

  • 10 Keats Grove, London, NW3 2RR, GB
  • +442073323868
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Wednesday 11 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-1 pm
  • Friday 11 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Check opening days carefully; the house is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
  • Attend one of the volunteer-led tours on Thursday, Friday, or Sunday afternoons for deeper insights.
  • Spend time in the garden, a peaceful spot that inspired some of Keats’s greatest poems.
  • Tickets are purchased on-site by card only; no pre-booking is required.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground Northern Line to Hampstead station, then enjoy a 15-20 minute walk through leafy Hampstead to Keats House. The walk is mostly flat but includes some gentle inclines. No ticket required for the walk; Underground fares vary by zone.

  • Bus

    Bus routes 24, 46, and 168 serve the Hampstead area. Alight at South End Green and walk approximately 10 minutes to Keats House along Keats Grove. Buses run frequently, with single fares around £1.75 using contactless payment.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from central London to Keats House typically takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £15-£25. Drop-off is available near the entrance on Keats Grove.

Keats House location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about Keats House

A Historic Home of Literary Genius

Keats House, originally known as Wentworth Place, was built between 1814 and 1816 as a pair of semi-detached Regency villas set in a common garden. John Keats moved into the eastern half in December 1818, living there for just 17 months during which he composed some of his most celebrated works, including 'Ode to a Nightingale' and 'To Autumn.' The house was also where Keats met and fell in love with Fanny Brawne, his neighbour, marking a poignant chapter in his life. Despite his brief residence, the house remains deeply imprinted with his presence and legacy.

Architectural and Interior Charm

The house retains much of its original Regency character, with elegant yet modest architectural features such as tall Georgian windows and a whitewashed frontage. Inside, rooms are carefully restored to reflect the period, furnished with items that belonged to Keats, including his sofa and bed. The interior is designed to evoke the atmosphere of early 19th-century Hampstead, focusing on historical authenticity rather than opulence. Exhibitions include letters, manuscripts, and personal effects that provide insight into Keats’s daily life and creative struggles.

The Garden: Inspiration and Tranquillity

The garden at Keats House is a peaceful retreat that inspired much of Keats’s poetry. It is famously known as the spot beneath a plum tree where he wrote 'Ode to a Nightingale.' Visitors can stroll through this serene green space, reflecting on the natural beauty that fueled the poet’s imagination. The garden also hosts occasional music recitals and events, adding a cultural dimension to the visitor experience.

Preservation and Public Access

Threatened with demolition in 1920, Keats House was saved through fundraising efforts and opened as a museum in 1925. It is now managed by the City of London Corporation as a registered charity dedicated to preserving the house as a memorial to Keats. The museum offers volunteer-led tours, exhibitions, and educational programs that celebrate Keats’s life and the wider Romantic literary movement. Accessibility features include an induction loop and an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities.

Cultural Significance and Visitor Experience

Keats House stands as a testament to the enduring power of Romantic poetry and the importance of literary heritage. It draws poetry lovers, historians, and cultural tourists alike, offering a tangible connection to one of England’s greatest poets. The museum’s intimate scale allows visitors to experience the personal side of Keats’s life, from his creative triumphs to his struggles with illness and love. The house’s location in leafy Hampstead also invites exploration of the surrounding historic village and nearby cultural sites.

Events and Engagement

Beyond its role as a museum, Keats House hosts a lively program of events including poetry readings, workshops, and special exhibitions that delve into Keats’s work and his contemporaries. These activities enrich the visitor experience, making the house a vibrant cultural hub that continues to inspire new generations.

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