1. D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum

The birthplace of a legend

The writing of D.H. Lawrence, born here in 1885, was deeply influenced by his working-class background. His father, Arthur Lawrence, was a coal miner – uneducated and physically robust – while his mother, Lydia Beardsall, had been a former schoolteacher and was from a slightly more refined background. This contrast between his parents created tension in the household, with the values of each parent often at odds.

The third of five children, Lawrence observed a range of familial relationships, rivalries and maternal favouritism. He was himself particularly close to his mother, and their intense bond is often seen as a major influence on his psychological and literary themes. It was this mix of class conflict and emotional intensity which laid the groundwork for his exploration of the human need to live passionately and authentically, which features so strongly in his works.

The museum is open to the public and you can find out more about visiting on our Museum webpage.

The Lawrence family

Life in Lawrence's first family home

In this video, Museum and Collections Officer, Carolyn Melbourne talks about what life was like for the Lawrence family in the Victoria Street house.