About
The Charterhouse is one of London's best-kept secrets - a hidden medieval monastery complex with over 650 years of history. Founded in 1371 as a Carthusian monastery, it later became a Tudor mansion, an Elizabethan school, and an almshouse that continues today.
The Charterhouse offers a remarkable journey through British history, from the Black Death burial ground beneath it to its role as a refuge during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
Visitors can explore the medieval cloisters, Tudor Great Chamber with its stunning ceiling, and the chapel where Thomas Sutton is buried.
The site hosts fascinating guided tours revealing hidden corners and remarkable stories of the people who lived here, including John Wesley who preached in the chapel. The recent opening of the museum has made this extraordinary place accessible to the public for the first time in centuries.
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Plan Your Visit
⏱️ Recommended Visit Duration
📅 Best Times to Visit
Quietest: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Busiest: Saturday, Sunday
💡 Weekday afternoons for smaller tour groups
💡 Visitor Tips
- Book in advance as visitor numbers are limited to preserve the historic building
- Wear comfortable shoes - there are stairs and uneven surfaces throughout
- Allow at least 90 minutes to fully appreciate the guided tour
- The Charterhouse is a living almshouse - be respectful of residents' privacy
- Photography is allowed but be mindful during the tour
- The café serves excellent cakes and light lunches in a beautiful setting
Highlights
The Great Chamber
Magnificent Tudor room with an ornate plasterwork ceiling featuring the coats of arms of the Founding Governors. This spectacular space was created when Thomas Howard, 4th Duke of Norfolk, converted the monastery into a grand mansion. The ceiling is one of the finest examples of Elizabethan plasterwork in London.
Medieval Cloisters
Peaceful 14th-century cloisters where Carthusian monks once walked in silence. The atmospheric stone walkways surround a tranquil garden, offering a rare glimpse of medieval monastic life in the heart of modern London.
The Chapel
Beautiful chapel where John Wesley preached and Thomas Sutton, founder of the almshouse, is buried. The chapel features stunning stained glass and monuments spanning centuries of the Charterhouse's history.
The Wash House Court
Atmospheric courtyard revealing layers of history from monastic cells to Tudor additions. Archaeological investigations here have uncovered fascinating evidence of life at the Charterhouse through the centuries.
Collections
The Charterhouse collection includes architectural fragments, documents, paintings, and objects spanning 650 years. Highlights include medieval tiles, Tudor artifacts, religious items from the monastery period, and personal belongings of the Brothers (residents of the almshouse).
The site itself is the primary exhibit - a palimpsest of British history from medieval monastery to Tudor mansion to charitable foundation.
The Charterhouse Revealed
Main museum exhibition telling the story of the site from 1371 to present
📍 Museum galleries
Themes
Time Periods
Current Exhibitions
No current exhibitions. Please check the museum website for updates.