Historical London Tours: Booze, Brothels & The Bard in Borough
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Overview
Delve into London's lively past on a two-hour walking tour through Borough and Bankside, uncovering tales of Shakespeare, Dickens, and medieval vice. Discover hidden ruins and vibrant stories that shaped the city’s history—an unforgettable experience that blends storytelling with the atmosphere of historic London.
Booze, Brothels & The Bard: London's Bawdy Borough
2 hours • Ages 13+ • The locations of Southwark's two most notorious prisons!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating two-hour walking tour through Borough and Bankside, where history comes alive! Encounter iconic figures like Shakespeare and Dickens, explore notorious sites of medieval vice, and discover the remnants of ancient prisons and palaces. With a small group for an intimate experience, this journey through time is unforgettable.
Duration
2 hours
About
Click here to watch a sneak preview video!
Travel through a thousand years of history, meeting William Shakespeare, medieval 'Winchester Geese' prostitutes, Charles Dickens, the ghost of a nineteenth century pub landlady, and the wonderfully named Doorkins Magnificat!
On our guided walking tour we'll visit the areas around Borough and Bankside, which being outside the jurisdiction of the City of London were for centuries the site of seedy goings on. We'll learn how the area had been notorious for prostitution since the arrival of the Romans, visit the locations of Southwark's two most notorious prisons of which parts can still be seen today, take in the sights of a millennium-old market, view the remains of a medieval palace, and find Shakespeare's Globe Theatres both old and new!
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More info
The guided walking tour begins outside Borough Station, ends near to London Bridge Station, and will take around two hours. Total distance is about two miles.
Ticket sales will be limited to fifteen attendees, to ensure maximum enjoyment for everybody on the tour.
Parents can bring younger children, but it's at their own discretion on the understanding that there will be adult themes on the tour
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The tour involves a lot of walking through uneven and cobbled streets, so plan for comfortable footwear.
Bring an umbrella or rain jacket
Weather in London can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, especially in spring and fall.
Bring a notepad for notes
Take notes or questions to enhance your learning experience during the stories and discussions.
Arrive early
Arriving a few minutes early ensures you won’t miss the start and can settle in comfortably.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons, seagulls
History
This district was notorious for its taverns, theatres, and prisons from medieval times through the Victorian era, shaping London's social fabric.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving historic landmarks and maintaining the authenticity of the district’s character amid urban development.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Your feet will thank you for sturdy, comfortable shoes during the tour’s city streets.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable, especially if the weather changes unexpectedly.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the historic sights and vibrant street scenes along the route.
Notebook and pen
Jot down interesting stories and notes during the tour for later reflection.