Old London Bridge and the stone alcoves in Victoria Park

Old London Bridge and the stone alcoves in Victoria Park

“Old London Bridge”, begun in stone in 1176, replaced previous wooden structures dating back to Roman times and, with various rebuilding and repairs, spanned the River Thames until it was replaced in 1831.

After the old bridge was demolished, its parts and materials were re-used, lost, or in some cases scattered acrossLondon. Two of the stone alcoves, which have been termed “recesses”, “refuges” or “shelters”, can now be found in Victoria Park, just beyond our borough’s border.

This evening’s talk will cover the Old Bridge and its alcoves.

Our speaker, Benedict O’ Looney, runs an architecture studio in south London, working on new build and conservation projects. His restoration of shopfronts, including the Doulton ceramic, Beaux Arts, Findlater’s Corner shop, at the south end of London Bridge, has stimulated his research into Old London Bridge. Other work includes the renovation of Grade ll listed Peckham Rye Station, and of Richmond Station.

Benedict has taught architecture history and sketching. He is chairman of Southwark’s Conservation Areas Advisory Group, and a member of the Victorian Society’s Southern Building Committee

Meet at the Pembury Centre, Block A, Atkins Square, Dalston lane, E8 1FA, 7pm for a 7:15 start. The event will finish by 9pm.

The event costs £5 for Hackney Society members, £10 for guests, plus booking fees. Please book in advance using this page.

picture: Benedict O'Looney

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher The Hackney Society