The World of Virginia Woolf: A Tour of Woolf's London

Virginia Woolf, an iconic figure of 20th-century literature, was deeply influenced by the city she called home for much of her life. London, with its bustling streets and historic landmarks, features prominently in Woolf's writings and indeed shaped her as a writer. Join us as we embark on a virtual tour of locations in London associated with Virginia Woolf.

Bloomsbury

Our tour begins in Bloomsbury, an area of central London where Woolf lived with her husband Leonard and other members of the influential Bloomsbury Group. The group, which included artists, writers, and intellectuals, frequently met at the Woolfs' home at 46 Gordon Square. Today, a blue plaque marks the house, commemorating its significance in literary history.

The British Museum

A short walk from Gordon Square will take us to The British Museum, a location often visited by Woolf and featured in her works. The museum, with its vast collection of world art and artefacts, served as a source of inspiration for Woolf's writing.

The River Thames

The River Thames and its surrounding landmarks are recurring motifs in Woolf's works. In her novel "Mrs Dalloway," the protagonist Clarissa Dalloway walks along the river, and in "To the Lighthouse," the river symbolizes the passage of time. Several bridges over the Thames, such as the Waterloo Bridge and the Tower Bridge, appear in Woolf's writings, offering vivid imagery of the city's landscape.

Monk's House

Although not in London, Monk's House in Rodmell, Sussex, was Woolf's country retreat and her home for over twenty years. It is here that Woolf wrote many of her famous works. Today, the house is a National Trust property and is open to visitors who can explore the charming garden and writing lodge that Woolf loved so much.

Celebrate Woolf and her work by wearing one of our A Room of One's Own book bags and wear your story.”