Queen Camilla has paid a visit to the Charles Dickens Museum, stepping into the only remaining London home of the great Victorian writer to mark its 100th anniversary. During her tour, she viewed precious artefacts, including a diamond ring worn by Dickens himself, and shared a light-hearted moment with his descendant, quipping, “I won’t nick it.”
A royal visit to a literary landmark
The Queen Consort explored the historic Georgian townhouse in Holborn, central London, where Dickens lived from 1837 to 1839. It was here that he completed The Pickwick Papers and penned the beloved classic Oliver Twist, before moving as his family expanded and his literary career soared.
As she walked through the carefully preserved rooms, Camilla admired Dickens’ writing desk, a collection of portraits and letters, and even one of the outfits he wore to meet royalty. The visit was part of the museum’s centenary celebrations, recognising its role in preserving the legacy of one of Britain’s most influential novelists.
A moment of reflection and humour
One of the most poignant moments of the visit came when Camilla was shown a diamond ring that Dickens had worn during his lifetime. Oliver Dickens, the writer’s great, great, great grandson, presented her with the treasured piece in the very bedroom where Dickens’ sister-in-law, Mary Hogarth, tragically passed away in 1837.
Mary, who was deeply cherished by Dickens, collapsed suddenly the night before and died in his arms. Heartbroken, he kept her ring as a keepsake, a symbol of the profound loss that shaped his personal life and creative work.
Holding the ring, the Queen observed, “It is rather lovely,” before jokingly reassuring onlookers, “I won’t nick it,” as she returned it to Dickens’ descendant. The remark was met with laughter, offering a moment of levity amid the sombre history of the room.
Celebrating dickens’ lasting influence
During the visit, Camilla had the opportunity to listen to readings from two of the museum’s patrons, renowned actors Miriam Margolyes and Simon Callow. The pair read extracts from Dickens’ works and personal letters, bringing his words to life for the assembled guests.
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Sandra Lynes Timbrell, chairwoman of the museum’s board of trustees, addressed volunteers and supporters, highlighting Dickens’ enduring impact on literature and society.
“Few figures in our literary history have created works that have had such a lasting impact,” she said. “Not only through their writing, but also through their ability to challenge and to reshape the social fabric of their time, or even, in a sense, to invent Christmas.”
She praised Dickens’ unique talent for storytelling, noting his ability to unite people and inspire social change. “His words have deeply influenced our understanding of charity and social responsibility,” she continued. “Their relevance endures just as strongly today as it did in their own time.”
A legacy that endures
Dickens remains one of the most celebrated writers in the English language, known for his vivid characters and sharp social commentary. His works, from Great Expectations to A Christmas Carol, continue to resonate with modern audiences, addressing themes of poverty, justice, and human kindness.
The museum, housed in the writer’s former home, preserves this legacy, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of a man who transformed literature and influenced social reform.
As Queen Camilla departed, her visit served as a fitting tribute to the enduring power of Dickens’ storytelling – a legacy that, even 150 years after his death, still holds a special place in British culture.
