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12th May 2023

Architecture of the Almshouse

Join an expert guide to explore the grounds of the Grade I-listed Charterhouse and discover 650 years of architecture from the Black Death to the present day.

Originally a medieval monastery on the edge of the City of London, the Charterhouse was transformed into an opulent Tudor mansion before Thomas Sutton founded his almshouse charity there in 1611. The Charterhouse continues to provide homes for a community of ‘Brothers’, single men and women over 60 in financial and social need.

Book this special tour to learn how the historic buildings weathered the Reformation, a devastating fire, and changing tastes in architecture, and how they continue to serve the needs of the community in the 21st century.

12th May 2023

Charterhouse Square Tours

Step off the busy streets into Charterhouse Square, an oasis on the edge of the City of London. This short tour introduces the architecture of the square including the evocative remains of a Carthusian monastery and a landscaped garden with a surprising history hidden beneath the surface.

After the tour, discover the stories behind the remarkable Charterhouse buildings in our free museum and historic chapel.

10th March 2023

Garden Tour

Led by the Charterhouse gardeners, this is a rare opportunity to enter the enchanting secret gardens of the Charterhouse. Hidden away for more than 650 years, the Charterhouse gardens are now revealed in all their glory. Enclosed by this historic former monastery and Tudor palace is an oasis of calm and great beauty where a collection of courtyard gardens gradually unfold, cleverly reflecting different moods and providing colour and interest throughout the seasons. Garden tours last 60 minutes.

24th January 2023

Brothers Tour

Tour duration: Up to 90 mins. Come and discover more about the Charterhouse with a behind the scenes tour led by one of the resident Brothers.  These tours are given from the perspective of each individual Brother and therefore no two tours are the same. They provide an in-depth look at the long history of the site and the lifestyle of the Brothers through the centuries and are a unique opportunity to learn more about the nuances of this fascinating historical gem hidden in the heart of London.

13th January 2023

Charterhouse Tour

Tour duration: 60 mins. Join us for a professional guide led tour to see the highlights of the Charterhouse, taking in the evocative remnants of the medieval monastery and the courtyards of the Tudor mansion. Discover Thomas Sutton’s charity and life at the Charterhouse today in these historic surroundings, including the Great Hall where the Brothers sit together to eat their meals.

Charterhouse tours cast new light on well-known stories from British history including the plague, religious Reformation, Tudor intrigue and the Blitz, and introduce our visitors to the unique heritage of one of London’s hidden gems – living the nation’s history since 1348.