THE BENDIGO STORY

Learn about the incredible life of William 'Bendigo' Thomson,
Nottingham's first sporting superstar in a walking tour of the City Centre
About this Event

The Bendigo Story is a guided walk that celebrates the life and times of William ‘Bendigo’ Thompson, Nottingham’s legendary Prize-Fighter and All England Champion. Bendigo was Nottingham's first sporting superstar, if not the country's

Born in Nottingham England during the early 1800’s, despite being illiterate and poor, his physique and agility as a prize fighter brought him success. His outspoken character and record in the ring attracted a massive fan base, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who wrote a verse to the fighter. He went on to become the undefeated Champion of England and is credited with introducing the ‘southpaw’ boxing stance.

His reputation was known throughout the world and the city of Bendigo in Australia is named after him. Bendigo was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991.

This guided tour is led by a trustee of the Bendigo Heritage Project. You will be taken to a number of significant and historic locations, where you will learn about his life and what Nottingham was like during his time.

The tour lasts approximately two hours and is along pavements and involves no steps. It is a walking tour that is suitable for wheelchair access

Total walking time is an hour and we have chosen a route that will include some interesting features and buildings too. The walk will finish up at St Mary’s Church in the Lace Market, where you will receive a complimentary copy of the Heritage Book and the opportunity to seek refreshment at a local pub.

The Bendigo Story is registered with Visit Britain, the corporate website of the UK Tourism Industry. We have the Industry Standard mark meaning we follow government and industry COVID-19 guidelines. A Risk Assessment is in place and a process to maintain cleanliness and aid social distancing.

Pre-booking is encouraged to ensure your place.

Private Tours are available (even at short notice). Contact Alan at [email protected] or message 07910663233

Supporters at the Bendigo Banner on Bath Street

All our tours start in Nottingham's famous Old Market Square

Your Tour Guides are Jevon Patrick and Alan Dawson.

They will have these umbrellas to make it easier to spot them. The umbrellas are blue in recognition of Bendigo's chosen sash colour of 'birds eye blue'.

Your tour guides Jevon and Alan with a maquette of Bendigo, who makes an occasional appearance at events.