The best of London 2 - Samuel Johnson's house

Samuel Johnson was a giant of his age. This was a man who befriended the painter Joshua Reynolds, tutored the actor David Garrick, attended sermons by John Wesley and had his life documented by James Boswell. Mementos of his interactions with the great of London society are on view at his house on Gough Square.

Most importantly, this is the man who in 9 years single-handedly compiled the first comprehensive dictionary which fully illustrated the proper usage of the English language.

It was here that he wrote entries like "OATS: a grain which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people."

A priceless first edition of the dictionary is on view here. You can read some rare examples of his letters (most were burnt after his death), admire some portraits and engravings, examine odd artefacts like a brick from the Great Wall of China and Reynolds' walking stick, then go around the corner to his local pub, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese.

Although I think I got more out of visiting his boyhood home in Lichfield more, no literary tour to London would be complete without seeing where the landmark dictionary of the English language was assembled. Especially when you consider 2009 is the 300th anniversary of his birth!

INFO Dr Johnson's House is well signposted when walking around the City and can be found at 17 Gough Square off Fleet Street. Chancery Lane (Central line) is the nearest tube stop. The house is open 11-5 Mon-Sat, closed Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays. Entry for adults in Summer 2000 is £4.50.