Bankside : A Walk in the "Outlaw Borough"

Welcome to Bankside, where the Thames whispers secrets of Tudor theatre, bustling markets, and clandestine corners. Our walking tour invites you to journey through the ages, exploring the stories of this historic district.

Hear about Tudor England, where Bankside was alive with the sights and sounds of Elizabethan theatre, where, at the Globe Theatre, Shakespeare's immortal words echoed through the air, captivating audiences with tales of love, betrayal, and redemption.

But Bankside was not just a stage for theatrical exploits—it was also a hotbed of vice, crime and indulgence that accompanied the acting profession. In the shadowy alleys and dimly lit taverns, the underbelly of London thrived, offering refuge to gamblers, rogues, and ladies of the night. We'll peel back the layers of Bankside's darker side and visit a pauper's graveyard with a tragic history for its inhabitants.

Amidst the chaos and clamour, Bankside was also a place of healing and hope. We'll pause to admire Guy's Hospital, which has served the community for centuries. As well as looking at the origins of the Old Operating Theatre.

And let us not forget Bankside's intimate ties to the brewing trade, where alehouses and breweries once dotted the riverbanks, filling the air with the heady aroma of freshly brewed beer. We'll raise a toast to John Harvard, the namesake of Harvard University, who had links to the brewing industry business right here on Bankside. And see the inspiration for Chaucer, whose Canterbury Tales immortalised the pilgrims setting forth from the area.

London Bridge, spanning the Thames, serves as a poignant reminder of Bankside's connection to the heart of the city. As we visit this historic span, we'll reflect on its importance as a lifeline for trade, travel, and cultural exchange throughout the centuries and how heads on spikes acted as a warning to visitors to the city.

Along the way, a few movie locations will get a mention as well.

Whether you're a seasoned history buff or simply curious about the secrets of London's past, our walking tour promises to be an unforgettable exploration of Bankside's fascinating heritage.

The tour will start at the Duke Street Hill exit of London Bridge tube station. When you exit (and there are two of them), we'll meet under the overpass, which you can't miss.

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