History of Horror Walk

A guided walk exploring the history of horror and its relationship to London’s West End. Gothic novels and their theatrical and cinematic interpretations, the writers, the actors, the directors, from silent shockers through the horrors of the Hammer era to modern day classics such as Last Night in Soho.

Step into the shadowy corridors of London's West End with David Turnbull, a horror writer and qualified London tour guide, on our "History of Horror in the West End" walking tour. This spine-tingling journey delves into the chilling depths of gothic horror literature and its indelible mark on cinema and theatre. From the fog-laden tales of Dracula to the split personalities of Jekyll and Hyde, and the haunting allure of The Portrait of Dorian Gray, explore the streets that inspired these timeless nightmares.

Our tour unravels the macabre threads that bind classic gothic novels to their adaptations on both stage and screen. Discover the origins of Penny Dreadfuls, the birth of horror in silent cinema, and the Londoners who transformed into the monstrous icons of Universal Studios. Learn about the city's role in shaping stories of iconic villains and victims—from the werewolves that roam its alleys to the notorious Necktie Strangler.

As we navigate the West End's eerie backstreets, David will introduce you to the lesser-known horrors that lurk in London’s literary history, such as the forgotten bestseller that outsold Dracula and became one of the first horror tales visualised on film. The cultural impact of these stories is immense, offering a lens into the fears and fascinations of society across different eras.

Highlights of the tour include visits to key filming locations that brought these ghoulish tales to life, including the legendary Hammer House—the beating heart of the studio that catapulted Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing to stardom. Engage with the controversies and artistic inspirations behind the novels and their cinematic renditions.

By the end of the tour, you'll not only gain insights into the spectral history of London's entertainment district but also leave with a curated list of must-read novels and must-watch films to continue your exploration of the horror genre. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of fear and fiction, where every corner tells a story, and every shadow could hide an untold horror.

Start: Charing Cross Station

Duration: 90 mins

End: Piccadilly Circus

Host or Publisher David Turnbull from London Guided Walks