The Old Curiosity Shop: A Dickensian Relic in Central London
Step into a Tudor-era timbered cottage steeped in Dickensian lore, nestled amidst the vibrant heart of modern London.
Nestled at 13-14 Portsmouth Street in London, The Old Curiosity Shop is a quaint, timber-framed building dating back to around 1567. Though its direct connection to Charles Dickens' novel is debated and the name was added later for commercial reasons, it remains one of central London's oldest surviving structures. Once a Dickens-themed gift shop, it now operates as a unique shoe store, embodying a slice of Tudor England amidst modern surroundings.
A brief summary to The Old Curiosity Shop
- 2es, 13-14 Portsmouth St, London, WC2A 2ES, GB
- +442074059891
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the timber-framed exterior and surrounding historic streets.
- Combine your visit with nearby Lincoln’s Inn Fields and the London School of Economics for a rich historical and academic experience.
- Check ahead for shop opening times as it operates as a boutique shoe store and may have limited hours.
- Look closely for the Gothic lettering above the doorway that proclaims its Dickensian fame.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Old Curiosity Shop location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Old Curiosity Shop
A Timeless Tudor Cottage Amidst Modern London
The Old Curiosity Shop stands as a striking wood-beamed cottage on the corner of Portsmouth Street, with an upper floor that juts slightly over the pavement, evoking the charm of Tudor England. Built circa 1567, it is among the oldest surviving buildings in central London, offering a rare glimpse into the city's architectural past. Its timber framework reportedly includes wood salvaged from old ships, adding to its historic character. Despite the encroachment of towering modern buildings and the nearby London School of Economics, the shop retains a quaint, almost storybook presence.Legend and Literary Associations
Though popularly linked to Charles Dickens’ 1841 novel "The Old Curiosity Shop," the building’s association is more symbolic than factual. The name was appended in the late 19th century by a bookseller to attract customers, rather than reflecting the original inspiration for Dickens’ work. Nonetheless, it has become a cherished literary pilgrimage site for Dickens enthusiasts, immortalized in Gothic lettering above its doorway. The shop’s Dickensian fame was amplified by Victorian fascination with the Elizabethan era and the rise of literary tourism, despite the lack of direct historical evidence connecting the building to the novel’s narrative.Evolution Through the Centuries
Over the decades, the shop has undergone various transformations. It once functioned as a dairy on a royal estate granted by King Charles II and later became a Dickens-themed gift and antiques shop catering to tourists by the early 20th century. The building remarkably survived extensive wartime bombings and the urban redevelopment that reshaped much of the surrounding area. Recent restorations in 2023 addressed structural issues, ensuring the preservation of this historic edifice for future generations. Today, it operates as a boutique shoe store, blending its storied past with a contemporary retail function.An Atmosphere of Curiosity and History
Visitors to The Old Curiosity Shop experience a sense of stepping back in time, surrounded by the echoes of literary history and Tudor craftsmanship. The shop’s small, intimate interior contrasts with the bustling modern city outside, offering a tranquil retreat for those intrigued by London’s layered past. Though the shop itself is not a museum and does not feature extensive historical displays, its very presence invites reflection on the interplay between myth, commerce, and heritage in one of the world’s great cities.Preservation Amidst Change
The building’s survival through centuries of change is a testament to London’s complex urban fabric. While neighboring properties have fallen to collapse or redevelopment, The Old Curiosity Shop remains a steadfast emblem of the city’s resilience and cultural memory. Its timbered façade and Gothic signage continue to attract visitors seeking a tangible connection to Dickensian London and the Tudor era, despite the shop’s current commercial focus diverging from its literary origins.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Though the authenticity of its Dickensian claim is debated, The Old Curiosity Shop has become an iconic symbol of London’s literary heritage. It represents the Victorian era’s romanticization of the past and the enduring appeal of Dickens’ storytelling. The shop’s story reflects broader themes of urban preservation, tourism, and the ways in which history is curated and commercialized. For visitors, it offers a unique opportunity to engage with London’s layered history in a setting that blends fact, fiction, and folklore.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
St Clement Danes Church
0.3 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
The Old Watch House
0.4 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
Bow St
0.4 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
190 High Holborn
0.4 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Prince Henry's Room
0.5 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Strand
0.5 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Sicilian Avenue
0.5 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
Covent Garden
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Covent Garden, London's historic shopping center, where vibrant markets, exquisite dining, and captivating performances await every visitor.
Staple Inn
0.5 km
Explore Staple Inn, a historic Tudor building in London, showcasing stunning architecture and a serene courtyard amidst the city's vibrant life.
Temple Church
0.5 km
Medieval fortress of faith where crusading knights shaped English law and history.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.5 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Victoria Embankment
0.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Victoria Embankment in London, a beautiful riverside promenade perfect for leisurely strolls and iconic views.
Covent Garden, street shows
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Covent Garden, where street performances, shopping, and history come together in the heart of London.
Huntfun Covent Garden
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Huntfun Covent Garden, a premier tourist attraction in London filled with unique shops, local stalls, and street performances.
Unmissable attractions to see
Peacock Theatre
0.1 km
A dynamic West End venue dedicated to contemporary dance and innovative performances in a historic yet modern setting.
Lincoln's Inn Fields
0.2 km
London’s largest historic square blending centuries of legal heritage, dramatic history, and tranquil green space in the heart of Holborn.
Sir John Soane's Museum
0.2 km
Explore the extraordinary preserved home and collection of Sir John Soane, a masterpiece of architecture and eclectic art in central London.
Aldwych Theatre
0.2 km
Experience timeless elegance and captivating performances at London’s historic Aldwych Theatre, a West End treasure with Art Deco charm.
The Seven Stars
0.3 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
Drury Lane Gardens
0.3 km
Discover a historic and tranquil pocket park in Covent Garden, blending Victorian heritage with modern play spaces in central London.
Freemasons Hall, London
0.3 km
Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.3 km
Explore the historic legal heart of London at Lincoln's Inn, where centuries of law, architecture, and tradition converge in a serene urban oasis.
Fortune Theatre
0.3 km
Experience intimate West End theatre magic at the historic Fortune Theatre, London’s charming post-WWI gem with a rich cultural legacy.
St Mary le Strand Church
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite Baroque beauty and rich heritage of St Mary le Strand Church, a tranquil sanctuary and landmark in the heart of London’s Strand.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.3 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
0.3 km
Experience London's oldest theatre site, where 350 years of theatrical history come alive in a stunning 1812 West End landmark.
Novello Theatre
0.3 km
A classic West End theatre on Aldwych, home to Mamma Mia! and a refined Edwardian auditorium with excellent sightlines and intimate charm.
Mamma Mia!
0.3 km
Experience the joyous ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre, a timeless West End celebration of love and laughter.
Hidden London - Aldwych Station
0.3 km
Step into London’s hidden past with exclusive tours of Aldwych Station, a disused Tube shelter rich in history and wartime stories.
Essential places to dine
Sarastro
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Margot
0.3 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.4 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Balthazar
0.4 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.4 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Circus
0.5 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Chez Antoinette
0.5 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
0.5 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.6 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.6 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.6 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.6 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Store X
0.3 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
not just a shop
0.3 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Twinings - The Strand
0.4 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.5 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.5 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.5 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.5 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.6 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.6 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Good
0.6 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
0.6 km
Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
Floral Street
0.7 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Russell Street
0.3 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Plume Wine Bar
0.4 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.4 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.4 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.5 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Beaufort Bar
0.6 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
0.6 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.6 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Mrs Riot
0.6 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Upstairs At Rules
0.6 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
The Escapologist Bar
0.7 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
Prelude by Oriole
0.7 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.7 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.7 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.7 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.4 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Proud Late
0.6 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Roxy
0.6 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.6 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.8 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
0.8 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Heaven
0.9 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.9 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Club49Soho
1.0 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.0 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
The Penthouse London
1.0 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
1.1 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
Sophisticats Soho
1.2 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
1.2 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
