Staryy Angliyskiy Dvor, or the Old English Yard, is a small history museum in a 15th-century building on Ulitsa Varvarka in Moscow. The house was granted to English merchants by Tsar Ivan IV and later became a centre for English trade and diplomacy in Russia. Inside, preserved architecture brings the building’s past into view, and the music chamber is a highlight for its clear acoustics. Take an excursion if you want more context about the house and its role in Russian-English relations.
A house granted to English merchants
The building dates to the 15th century and first belonged to Ivan Bobrischev, a courtier under Grand Duke Ivan III. With no heirs, the house became government property in the 16th century.
English interest in trade with Russia grew after Richard Chancellor found a northern sea route to the country. The Muscovy Company was founded in London in 1555. Tsar Ivan IV granted English merchants the house, along with trading rights and customs privileges. It became a centre for English trade and diplomacy in Russia.
From trading house to museum
English merchants bought another building in 1636, after which the original house became known as the Old English Yard. Trade between Russia and England stopped in 1649, following the execution of Charles I.
The building now houses a history museum. Its rooms and architectural details connect the visit to the house’s changing role. The music chamber is noted for its acoustics, with sound remaining clear against the stone surfaces. The building is small, and its low doorways and stairs call for care as you move through it.
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Where is Staryy Angliyskiy Dvor?
It is at Ulitsa Varvarka, 4А, Moscow.
What is the museum about?
The museum is in a 15th-century house that became a centre for English trade and diplomacy in Russia.
Is there a guided visit?
Excursions are available and can give more detail about the site’s history.
