Charles Dickens Broadstairs Dickens House Museum Broadstairs Kent UK

Charles Dickens House Museum Broadstairs

Considerable care has gone into the refurbishment of the Charles Dickens House Museum in Broadstairs. The Parlour area has been reconstructed as Dickens described it (and as H. K. Browne (Phiz) illustrated it) in David Copperfield. A large selection of HK Browne, famous illustrator of the original Dickens novels, are on display here at the museum, as are pieces of furniture such as desks owned by Dickens himself. David Copperfield (DC, the author's initials reversed), was by Dickens' own admission his favourite novel, and a fair bit of autobiographical material from Dickens' own struggle in youth was poured into Copperfield's character.

The Broadstairs Dickens Museum has received numerous Dickens memorabilia over the years, and some of the most exciting pieces held here include letters written on or about Broadstairs. Victorian Broadstairs is also dipped into within the museum, with Victorian costumes, posters and photography of old Broadstairs on display.

The Dickens House Museum's links with the novel David Copperfield, specifically the character of Betsey Trotwood - Copperfield's aunt, are of course covered well in the museum. The real Mary Pearson Strong who lived here and was known to Dickens during his visits did indeed go to great lengths to see off donkeys passing her front gate. She's remembered too, by Dickens' son, as a warm character who stuffed him full of tea and cakes regularly. Find out more in the Dickens House Museum, the town's main site for exploring its close links with Dickens.

Dickens House Museum, 2 Victoria Parade, Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 1QS. Tel. (00 44) (0) 1843 861232.

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Broadstairs Charles Dickens Festival

Owner of Dickens House, Gladys Waterer, conceived the Broadstairs Dickens annual Festival and its been going strong in the town ever since. Held in late June, check the Dickens Festival webguide right for the next festival dates.

A host of Dickens and Victoriana events take place during this celebrated Dickens festivals, which has a real community feel. Events include the Grand Parade in traditional Victorian dress, beach parties, marquees, fairs and stalls. See some superb photos of previous Dickens Festivals in Broadstairs are via the festival webguide.

Broadstairs Dickens Festival, c/o Miss Sylvia Hawkes, 10 Lanthorne Road, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 3NH. Tel. 01843 861827.

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