We wandered into the Carlyle house knowing nothing about its history, aside from the fact that it was old.
We had our own guide for the tour, who was very knowledgeable and finished the tour knowing a great deal more about the history of Alexandria.

As part of a Holiday Candlelight Tour, I was impressed with the beauty of this home, and the fact there were young people volunteers acting as docents. One young man named Victor, in particular, was just lovely. It gives me heart to see the younger generation embracing the past in such a hands-on way.

I don't know if there is a regular fee involved with visiting this home, but there was a very reasonable cost for the tour of the four properties.

I would recommend this to anyone!

Step back in time with this historic house completed back in 1753 by the English merchant John Carlyle for his young bride Sarah. We did the candlelight tour, you get to hear the story how they lived, how it became the center of social and political life in Alexandria. 2 wives, 11 children but only 3 survived to become adults. Well preserved home. The staffs are well informed, answered all of our questions, dont forget to go to the basement, it has a little museum and a gift shop, this tour is NOT to be missed!

We visited during the Scottish Christmas Walk and they did a great job. Out in the yard they had a Revolutionary War platoon doing movements and firing their weapons. The character period doctor was very knowledgeable on medical procedures at the time and answered every question. Docents in the other rooms were excellent as well. The house gives a great representation of what it was like to be well to do citizen at the time. Carlyle House is a wonderful stop just off of King Street...highly recommended.