Almshouse 14 by candlelight

A retired ironmonger attends the Boxing Day premiere of John O’Keeffe’s Aladdin; or, The Wonderful Lamp in 1788, a harlequinade staged at Covent Garden Theatre. His modest room holds small but treasured objects marking a life shaped by labour and wonder.

A governess in the 1880s, Mary, teaches children in a Paddington townhouse. In this small, dignified space, she stands surrounded not by riches, but by love. She keeps a collection of cherished mementoes—each one carefully arranged like relics of a personal gospel. At Christmastime, Mary transforms the space into a quiet sanctuary of memory.

Explore stories of Christmases past by candlelight in this immersive tour of our 300-year old restored almshouse. Limited dates and times – book now.

Access

Due to the Almshouse’s age, some parts of the building are not accessible to wheelchairs or mobility aids. If you feel confident and comfortable navigating uneven flooring and staircases and use a walking stick or cane you are still welcome on the tour. If you would like clarity on this, please speak to our staff or email bookings@museumofthehome.org.uk in advance.