London Serial Killers - The Blood and Tears Walk

London, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (710 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

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    Other
    Local guide
  • inclusion
    Other
    Professional guide
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    Other
    Live entertainment
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    Other
    Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

I meet you directly opposite the ONLY exit at Barbican underground station, just 6 metres (20 feet) away from the only exit. Look for the black and red sign, saying 'The Blood and Tears Walk', on my rucksack on the ground.

Meeting point

Underground Ltd, Aldersgate St, Barbican, London EC1A 4JA , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

We end at the wonderful 'The Princess Louise' pub 208 High Holborn, Holborn, London WC1V 7EP. Holborn underground station (Central and Piccadilly lines) is only 60 seconds away from that pub.

Meeting point

125 High Holborn, London WC1V 6AN , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1
Church of St. Bartholomew the Great

The sad story of an uncaught serial killer who first murdered a 6 year-old girl, then 7 years later murdered a 7-year-old girl inside Barbican Station! Your Guide, Declan, discusses the similarities between the cases and profiles the Killer.

Duration 8 minutes
2
Holy Sepulchre London

The sinister economics of dead people. Grave-robbing and serial killing. Clue: The Doctors at St Bartholomew’s Hospital were happy to deal with real low-lifes.

Duration 5 minutes
3

Old Bailey

The most famous court in the world: The Central Criminal Court. Otherwise known as The Old Bailey. Two serial killers who had their trials here. Firstly, one who appeared here TWICE and who sent an innocent man to his death before later confessing his multiple murders of women. Then the grim background to another who murdered 13 women and caused terror for over FIVE years. Later in the Tour I talk about two other serial killers whose trials were here. One who murdered 15 boys and men; and the other serial killer who is perhaps the most dangerous woman in the world.

Duration 8 minutes
4

Printer St

A ‘lighter’ moment on the Tour… Declan wants your vote on the scariest horror movies of all time. Declan reveals the 'Top Ten' votes from 23 years of the Tour, including a film in the 'Top Ten' that most of you simply do not know. Even more intriguingly, the film has been recommended by 2,000 men, but not one single woman! Also Declan's personal recommendation: a total cult classic horror film, 60 years old, that practically none of you will have seen. And it's free to watch on YouTube.

Duration 6 minutes
5

Red Lion Ct

Hear a dramatic, immersive account of a little known Victorian serial killer who murdered on two continents and lived here. This true-life story, with a number of twists, would be perfect for a Movie, and yet the Movie has never been made. The story ends with a question, based on what you will have just heard, which very, very few people can get right...

Duration 10 minutes
6

Hare Pl

It's Jack the Ripper time. We visit the place, just off Fleet Street, where my Jack the Ripper suspect lived, and hear a detailed account of precisely why I think this man was Jack the Ripper. (He has an entire chapter in my 'Bloody London' book. Let's see how good you are at profiling... Also In this Jack the Ripper section of the tour is the toughest question of the entire tour. Get this particular question right and you are on the 'Roll of Honour' of 'The Blood and Tears Walk'. Only one person out of every 500 people who attends the Tour can get this question right!

Duration 15 minutes
7
St. Dunstan In The West

The narrow, dingy, isolated alley we enter here may just be the creepiest place you have been to in your entire life. And I am not kidding... We conduct a psychic experiment here - it's a murder scene - and you hear about a pair of devious serial killers who operated around here. If you are psychic, you will NOT like this place. I have had tough men be shaken by the atmosphere in here, especially in the dark months. Warning: This is NOT a nice place. And you will feel it.

Duration 10 minutes
8
Royal Courts of Justice

This is your section. I am not going to spoil what that means, but it is unfailingly interesting, and sometimes mind-boggling and jaw-dropping.

Duration 5 minutes
9

Portugal St

I mentioned them earlier. These are two other serial killers whose trials were at the Central Criminal Court. One who murdered 15 boys and men. The other serial killer may well be the most dangerous woman in the world.

Duration 7 minutes
10
Princess Louise

We end at the wonderful Princess Louise pub, famous for its wonderful Victorian decor. However, after the final serial killer story of the Tour, you may hesitate to enter this pub! I will tell you about a well-known British serial killer's truly horrible piece of behaviour. I can guarantee that you simply won't know of this, despite all the books and documentaries about this person. What I will tell you isn't in those books and documentaries. How do I know the information? Because it was told to me by the Head of Forensics involved in the case of this serial killer. He came on my Tour! After this final story, Declan will sell copies of his best-selling book 'Bloody London' for £10 cash or Paypal. Declan signs each book with a personal message.

Duration 6 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
    A maximum of 20 people per booking
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Children are 12-14 years old. Adults are 15+.
  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Don't attend if you are feeling unwell and have a temperature with a new persistent cough
  • Additional information
    I would seriously consider choosing a different Tour if you have mobility/significant health issues. It’s a fairly brisk pace – it has to be to cover 10 serial killers in two hours - and we cover 2 miles (3.2 km). And in Summer it can be hot all through the two hours. Truthfully (and quite apart from the subject matter), this Tour will not be suitable for everyone because of the distance and the reasonably fast pace. This Tour is also not recommended for people in their 70s because, as I said, it's quite fast-paced and we cover about 2 miles =3.2 kms.
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    MINIMUM age is 12 years. This is strictly enforced.
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather condition so dress appropriately
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    You MUST add 20 minutes extra travelling time, due to constant Underground train delays
Provided by City Secrets Walks

What our experts say

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    Dress appropriately for the weather.
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    Visit the Princess Louise pub for a drink.
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    Arrive early to avoid Underground delays.
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    Consider reading Declan's book for more insights.
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    Be prepared for a brisk walking pace.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Join the captivating and bone-chilling journey through the dark underbelly of London's history with the Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk. Led by the expert guide, Declan McHugh, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. Declan is not just knowledgeable about London's notorious serial killers, but also an expert on serial killers from around the world. Prepare to dive into the minds of these monsters and uncover the shocking details of their heinous crimes.

What to expect?

During the Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk, you can expect to be gripped by chilling stories and disturbing accounts of some of the most infamous serial killers in history. Declan will take you on a journey that explores the psychological motivations behind their crimes and the eerie locations where they operated. You'll gain valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the world of serial killers.

Who is this for?

This tour is for anyone fascinated by the macabre and intrigued by the darker side of history. Whether you're a true crime enthusiast, a psychology buff, or simply looking for a unique and captivating experience in London, this tour is for you. Please note that the tour is suitable for individuals aged 12 and over due to the chilling and disturbing nature of the stories shared.

Why book this?

Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the haunting history of London's serial killers. With over 472 5-star reviews and an 'Excellent' rating on Viator, this tour has proven to be a favorite among visitors. What sets this tour apart is Declan's in-depth knowledge and expertise, making each story more compelling and engaging. Additionally, by choosing the 'Tour plus Book' option, you'll receive a personally signed copy of Declan McHugh's best-selling book, 'Bloody London,' which delves even deeper into the city's grim past.

Good to know

For the Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk, the meeting point is directly opposite the Barbican station. You'll easily spot Declan with his black and red sign saying 'The Blood and Tears Walk.' The tour lasts approximately 120 minutes, taking you to various significant locations, such as the Old Bailey and St. Dunstan In The West. It's important to note that some parts of the tour can be unsettling, so be prepared for a spine-chilling experience. After the tour, make sure to grab a copy of 'Bloody London' for further exploration of the dark secrets lurking within the city.

Reviews

Participants of the Serial Killers: The Blood and Tears Walk have left glowing reviews, praising Declan's expertise and storytelling abilities. They have described the tour as an eye-opening and spine-tingling experience that delves deep into the psyche of serial killers. Many have commended Declan for his captivating narration and the way he brings the stories to life. If you're a fan of true crime or enjoy exploring the dark side of history, this tour is highly recommended by those who have experienced it firsthand.

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