Booze, Brothels & The Bard: A Walking Tour of London's Bawdy Borough

London, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (78 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Walking tour guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

We meet outside the exit of Borough Station. Please aim to arrive five minutes early as the tour will start on time. If you aren't able to make the tour or you will be late, please message me on +44 7783 401 129 so that I know whether to send you our live location on WhatsApp.

Meeting point

Borough High St, London SE1 1JX , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

St George the Martyr

The only remaining part of the Marshalsea Prison

Duration 5 minutes
2

Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance

The final resting place for thousands of Southwark's outcast dead

Duration 5 minutes
3

The Hop Exchange

The largest extant reminder of Southwark's beer trade

Duration 5 minutes
4

George

London's last surviving galleried coaching inn

Duration 5 minutes
5

Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret

Europe's oldest surviving operating theatre

Duration 5 minutes
6

London Bridge

The world famous and iconic London Bridge

Duration 5 minutes
7

Southwark Cathedral

London's oldest surviving gothic church

Duration 5 minutes
8

Borough Market

A one thousand year old food market

Duration 5 minutes
9

Winchester Palace

The remains of one of the most prestigious homes in medieval England

Duration 5 minutes
10

The Clink Prison Museum

The site of the notorious Clink Prison

Duration 5 minutes
11

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

The reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre

Duration 5 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Historic London Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit Borough Market for lunch nearby.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for great photo ops.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • icon
    Arrive early to join the group on time.
  • icon
    Check out the Old Operating Theatre after!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step back in time and embark on a captivating journey through the fascinating history of London's bawdy borough. Introducing "Booze, Brothels & The Bard: A Walking Tour of London's Bawdy Borough," a two-hour immersive experience that will transport you through a thousand years of scandalous tales, iconic figures, and hidden gems. This walking tour will take you through the vibrant areas of Borough and Bankside, where seedy goings-on and intriguing stories have shaped the city's history.

What to Expect?

Prepare to be enthralled as you walk in the footsteps of literary legend William Shakespeare, encounter medieval Winchester Geese prostitutes, and even cross paths with Charles Dickens himself. This unique tour will unravel the secrets of Southwark's notorious past, where prostitution has thrived since Roman times. Visit the remnants of two infamous prisons, witness the hustle and bustle of a millennium-old market, explore the remains of a medieval palace, and discover both the original and modern incarnations of Shakespeare's Globe Theatres.

Who is This For?

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Shakespeare aficionado, or simply someone with an insatiable curiosity for the hidden stories of a city, this walking tour is perfect for you. It caters to every adventurer seeking a deeper understanding of London's rich past. Join fellow explorers from all walks of life, as this tour is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all who wish to delve into the captivating history of the bawdy borough.

Why Book This?

This isn't your typical touristy walking tour; it's an immersive experience that transports you back in time. Led by expert guides who possess a wealth of knowledge and a passion for storytelling, "Booze, Brothels & The Bard" promises a truly unforgettable adventure. Uncover the hidden underbelly of London's history, where scandal and intrigue lurked around every corner. From the fascinating tales of prostitutes to the ghostly presence of a pub landlady, this tour offers a unique perspective on the city's past. Prepare to be captivated by the vivid narratives, atmospheric locations, and the opportunity to step into the world of literary greats.

Good to Know

This walking tour commences outside Borough Station and concludes near London Bridge Station, covering a distance of approximately two miles. To ensure an intimate and enjoyable experience for all participants, ticket sales are limited to fifteen attendees per tour. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as you'll be strolling through the historical streets and absorbing the ambiance of the bawdy borough. Don't forget to bring your camera, as there will be plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way.

Reviews

Previous attendees have raved about their experience on the "Booze, Brothels & The Bard" walking tour. One delighted customer exclaimed, "This tour exceeded all my expectations! The guide's storytelling skills brought history to life, and I felt as though I had traveled back in time. Truly an enchanting experience!" Others praised the knowledgeable guides, the carefully curated itinerary, and the unique insight into London's scandalous past. Join the ranks of satisfied travelers who have discovered the hidden gems of the bawdy borough and left with a newfound appreciation for London's captivating history.

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