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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Chris Schalkx

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.

Price from: £4
Minimum age: Any
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.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

ASAI Bangkok Chinatown

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2 miles]

A hyper-smart design hotel on the fringe of Chinatown, within walking distance of legendary street eats and kaleidoscopic temples, but out of earshot from roaring tuk-tuks and rowdy market vendors.

Official star rating:

Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.1 miles]

A fabulous five-star with the atmosphere of a boutique stay, with both the glitz and glamour of Phloen Chit and the serenity of Lumphini Park within walking distance.

Official star rating:

Ariyasom Villas

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.1 miles]

Beautiful, intimate boutique hotel in a 1940s villa surrounded by tranquil, lush gardens with a relaxing spa. Excellent location for sightseeing nd shopping.

Official star rating:

Bangkok Publishing Residence

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.4 miles]

A charming, family-run boutique stay in Bangkok’s atmospheric Old Town, with all the mod-cons of a well-appointed five star. Min age 15.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Bicycle tours of Chinatown

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[2.1 miles]

Bicycle tours through the back-alleys of Chinatown and Bangkok’s rural suburbs offer a fascinating peek into the daily lives of the city’s residents.

Best for ages: 13+ | £20 | 3-5 hours

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Boat tours of Bangkok

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From fancy river cruises to public transport boats, seeing Bangkok from its many waterways gives you a whole new perspective of the city and lives of the locals.

Best for ages: 4+ | £3 | 30+ minutes

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Grand Palace

Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[4 miles]

Thailand’s most famous cultural site is a glittering complex of jaw-dropping magnificence dating back to 1782. This former seat of power of Siamese kings houses the Emerald Buddha – Thailand’s palladium.

Best for ages: Any | £11

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

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Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Lumphini Park

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When you feel the need to escape Bangkok’s oppressive traffic fumes, Lumphini Park is a lush central oasis and a fantastic place for a stroll. Go early morning and late afternoon when locals come for sports and you’ll find elderly ladies practicing sword fighting and Tai-Chi.

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Bangkok’s Creative District

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Bangkokian Museum

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