Travel bucket list idea:
Jim Thompson’s House
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
Last updated: 04 April, 2024
The Jim Thompson House is the former home of the eponymous American entrepreneur who founded the Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company and played a pivotal role in reviving the industry.
Thompson mysteriously disappeared in the jungles of Malaysia in 1967 and left behind this landmark complex of six traditional Thai-style houses.
Now a museum, the site is in fine condition, with much of Thompson’s extensive art and antiques collection on display throughout, making it one of Bangkok’s must-do attractions.
Make sure you stop by the shop – there are plenty of pretty things on offer, from Jim Thompson silk to beautiful handmade souvenirs.
Logistics
Price from: £4
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
Jim Thompson House is a short (albeit sweaty) stroll from Siam Square and just minutes from BTS National Stadium. It’s at the very end of Soi Kasem San 2 on the left. Despite the sign, most people have difficulty locating it. Go right to the end of the soi.
To arrive in style, take a river taxi to or from the house along the nearby Khlong Saen Saeb canal.
Tours of the house are guided (compulsory), although you can wander some of the property independently. There are excellent rotating art exhibitions – check the website for details.
Food at the on-site café-restaurant is tasty and the setting is gorgeous – it’s one of the most tranquil spots in Bangkok – although obviously it’s more expensive than the nearby street food.
When to do it
The house is open all year round, seven days a week. It’s best to get here early in the morning as tour numbers are strictly limited.
