Bankside : Exploring the Outlaw Borough

Welcome to Bankside, where the Thames whispers secrets of Tudor theater, bustling markets, and clandestine corners. Our walking tour invites you to journey through the ages, exploring the rich tapestry of this historic district where every cobblestone tells a story.

Step back in time to the vibrant days of Tudor England, where Bankside was alive with the sights and sounds of Elizabethan theater. Imagine the thrill of attending a performance at the Globe Theatre, where 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 clamor, Bankside was also a place of healing and hope. We'll pause to admire Guy's Hospital, a beacon of compassion and medical expertise that has served the community for centuries. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a leading healthcare institution, Guy's Hospital stands as a testament to its part in the community.

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 we'll pay homage to Chaucer, whose Canterbury Tales immortalized the bustling markets and vibrant street life of medieval London.

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.

But Bankside's allure extends beyond the pages of history—it has also played a starring role on the silver screen, serving as a backdrop for films and television shows from gritty crime dramas to romantic comedies.

Join us as we take a journey through the ages, where history and legend intertwine to create a tapestry of tales that will intrigue and inspire. 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.