Handel & Hendrix in London
The Basics
Initially established as the Handel House Museum in 2001, the institution began life at 25 Brook Street: the address where George Frideric Handel lived for 36 years (and where he composed many of his most popular works, including theMessiah oratorio). Prior to its opening, the interior was restored and outfitted with furniture that skewed as closely to the 18th-century originals as possible. Today, its collection features manuscripts, instruments, and other items owned by Handel. In 2016, the museum expanded with the opening of the Hendrix Flat at 23 Brook Street, which features 1960s decor. Visitors can now explore the lives of both musicians in one visit.
Handel & Hendrix in London is included in the London Pass program. It’s also possible to book tickets and tours online in advance of your visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
Weekly guided tours are held on Friday afternoons and can be booked in advance.
The museum has full access and facilities for visitors with disabilities; disabled parking is also available on Brooks Mews.
In order to protect the heritage building, avoid wearing stiletto heels or leather-soled shoes.
Entry to the museum is free for all children on Saturdays.
Handel & Hendrix in London hosts a yearly composer-in-residence program.
How to Get There
The joint museum is conveniently located in Mayfair, in Central London’s West End. If traveling by Tube, take the Central or Jubilee line to Bond Street station or the Victoria, Central, or Bakerloo line to Oxford Circus station. The museum can also be reached by numerous bus lines as well as on foot, by bike, or by taxi.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
Handel & Hendrix in London is open Monday–Saturday, 11am–6pm (last entry to the museum is at 5pm). In addition to its regular visiting hours, the institution also hosts an array of talks, live music performances, guitar lessons, and other events; it’s worth researching its calendar before you visit.
The Hendrix Flat
Centuries after the baroque composer lived on Brook Street, another luminary moved right next door: Jimi Hendrix, who lived at 23 Brook Street (the residence of his girlfriend Kathy Etchingham) on and off from 1968 to 1969. Today, the renovated apartment is outfitted with Hendrix’s former possessions and Swinging Sixties–style interiors.