Thomas Carlyle’s Birthplace

Childhood home of one of Britain’s most influential thinkers

Planning Your Visit

Facilities & access

Guided tours of the house last for 25 minutes, and the maximum capacity of groups is 15.

Large-print factsheets are available.

Pay & Display parking is available on the road, within 50m of the property.

What the Arched House lacks in size, it makes up for in cultural significance – it’s fascinating to see where this hugely influential man grew up.

Many of Carlyle’s belongings are still in situ, along with domestic items of the time, providing an authentic glimpse into Victorian life and a fascinating insight into Thomas Carlyle’s early years. There are also many photos and reproductions of paintings of Carlyle and his wife Jane, a famous 19th-century literary couple.

Factsheets in each room, along with knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff, add insight to your visit.

After your visit, enjoy a wander round the pretty village of Ecclefechan and absorb the atmosphere that nurtured the ‘Sage of Ecclefechan’. There’s a great view from the top of the village, where there’s a replica of Boehm’s statue of Carlyle on the Embankment in London.

Toilet

Touch tours are available – please book in advance.