Handel Museum

NileGuide Expert tip:

Jimi Hendrix memorabilia is also on display

Description:

• This is the first composer museum to open in London. George Frederic Handel lived in this townhouse until his death in 1759, and it was here that he composed Messiah. Most of his organ concerts were written here, as well as "Israel in Egypt" and "Coronation Anthems." Handel settled in London in 1710 but didn't move to this Georgian house until 1723. The house has been restored to its original 18th-century styling, with furniture and fabrics accurate (though not original) to the time Handel lived here. The museum is hung with portraits and prints of Handel, his colleagues, and his patrons. On display are two harpsichords, which are played frequently by professionals when the museum is open. Precious objects include Mozart's handwritten arrangement of a Handel fugue, and furnishings such as a canopied bedroom from 1720 on loan from the Victoria and Albert Museum. Visit is by guided tour only. There are recitals every Thursday evening between 6:30 and 7:30pm and on occasional other days as well. Concerts cost £9 ($18) for adults or £7.50 ($15) for students and seniors. See the "West End Attractions" map.

• © Frommer's 2013