Borough Market - Inns and alleys 700 years of literature explored

London, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (7 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Disposable masks - covid
  • inclusion
    Details of borough attractions

Meeting Point

I will meet you at the front of the courtyard of this historic galleried inn.

Meeting point

75 Borough High St, London SE1 1NH , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

The Crossbones gardens are a short walk from Borough Market and London Bridge tube station.

Meeting point

Union St, London SE1 1TA , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

Borough Market

We will talk about the history of the market in Borough. We will hear about the area's role in shaping England's earliest Bibles.

2

George

A classic stage coaching inn, with links to Shakespeare and Dickens. We will visit the site of the Tabard Inn, where Canterbury Tales is set, written over 600 years ago. We will also learn more about the poet Keats and the philosopher Wittgenstein and their time at Guys Hospital.

Duration 10 minutes
3

St George the Martyr

With a poet laureate in its graveyard and Little Doritt's fire place this church is rich in history. We will visit the Marshalsea Prison, that played a central role in shaping the young Charles Dickens.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance

This medieval paupers graveyard is rich in mystery and history. With over 15,000 bodies and a history back to medieval times it is a site not to be missed.

Duration 10 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
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What our experts say

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    Visit the nearby Borough Market for lunch.
  • icon
    Check out the Tabard Inn's historic charm.
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    Explore the Crossbones Graveyard afterward.
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    Bring a camera for stunning historic sites.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Join a qualified tour guide and London expert on a captivating journey through the historic streets of Borough. Discover the hidden gems that even locals are unaware of and delve into the alleys and inns that literary legends like Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Dickens frequented. This immersive tour takes you back in time, exploring the sites that have stood the test of time since medieval days. Visit the very spot where Dickens' father was imprisoned for debt, trace the steps of Chaucer's pilgrims embarking on their Canterbury Tales, and even enjoy a pint at the pub that Shakespeare himself may have frequented. Borough Market - Inns and alleys 700 years of literature explored is an essential experience for those seeking to understand the roots of English literature.

What to expect?

Embark on a 90-minute journey filled with fascinating stories and historical insights. Starting at the historic galleried inn, the tour guide will greet you and lead you to Borough Market, where you'll learn about its role in shaping England's earliest Bibles. From there, visit the site of the Tabard Inn, the setting of Canterbury Tales, written over 600 years ago. Explore a church with a poet laureate in its graveyard and Little Dorrit's fireplace, and uncover the Marshalsea Prison's impact on Charles Dickens' life. The tour concludes at Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance, a medieval paupers graveyard with a rich history dating back to medieval times. Expect an engaging and informative experience that will transport you to the heart of England's literary past.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for lovers of literature and history. Whether you're an avid reader, an aspiring writer, or simply someone with a curiosity for the origins of English literature, Borough Market - Inns and alleys 700 years of literature explored will captivate you. It appeals to both locals and visitors alike, as it unveils a side of Borough that many have overlooked. This experience is an inclusive opportunity for anyone interested in delving into the past and discovering the literary connections that have shaped England's culture.

Why book this?

Book this tour to unlock the secrets of Borough and witness its historical significance firsthand. With a fully qualified and knowledgeable guide, you can expect a tour that is not only informative but also entertaining. The expert insights will bring the stories and characters from literature to life. The small group size ensures an intimate experience and adheres to COVID safety guidelines. By joining this tour, you'll not only gain a deeper understanding of English literature but also reconnect with the vibrant city of London.

Good to know

During this tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore Borough Market, which holds an important place in England's history and is still a thriving hub of culinary delights today. You'll also visit Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance, a site that carries the weight of thousands of stories and provides a unique perspective on London's past. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves walking through the historic streets of Borough.

Reviews

Guests who have experienced Borough Market - Inns and alleys 700 years of literature explored rave about the incredible depth of knowledge and passion displayed by the tour guide. Many appreciate how the tour brings the history of literature to life and reveals hidden aspects of London's past. Travelers describe the experience as both educational and enjoyable, with the perfect balance of storytelling and historical insights. Visitors have left with a newfound appreciation for the literary giants who walked these streets centuries ago. Join this tour and become immersed in the literary history of Borough, leaving with a deeper understanding and a sense of connection to England's iconic literary heritage.

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