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

Booze, Brothels & The Bard: A Walking Tour of London’s Bawdy Borough offers a captivating peek into the less polished, more colorful side of London’s history. For just around $28, you’ll spend roughly two hours wandering through the historic Southwark area, visiting well-known sites like Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Borough Market, while also exploring some of London’s lesser-known, seedier past. Led by guides who clearly love sharing their knowledge, this tour manages to be both entertaining and educational, appealing to travelers seeking authentic stories rather than canned history.

What we love about this experience is its balance of famous landmarks and hidden gems. First, visiting Southwark Cathedral and the remains of Marshalsea Prison enriches your understanding of London’s medieval and literary past. Second, the visits to The Hop Exchange and Clink Prison Museum add a flavorful, gritty edge that many tours overlook, offering a glimpse into London’s boozy trade and criminal history.

A possible consideration is that, because the stops are mostly quick visits—about five minutes each—you might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to linger longer. Also, the tour is designed as a walking experience, so comfortable shoes are a must. But if you’re curious about the less polished side of London and enjoy stories that go beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour is tailor-made for you. It suits those who love history, literature, and a dash of the mischievous.

Key Points

• Unique Focus: Combines London’s literary history with its bawdy, criminal past, offering a well-rounded yet quirky perspective.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures personal attention and engaging storytelling.
• Authentic Sites: Includes visits to notable locations like Shakespeare’s Globe, Borough Market, and historic prisons.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight guides like Tom, who share colorful and detailed stories, making history come alive.
• Efficient Itinerary: Short stops (~5 minutes each) allow for a quick yet comprehensive exploration of Southwark’s hidden corners.
• Value for Money: At $27.60, the tour delivers a rich mix of history, humor, and local flavor for a reasonable price.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting at Borough High Street, the tour kicks off with a visit to St George the Martyr, the only remaining part of the once-famous Marshalsea Prison. This site is a poignant reminder of London’s darker past, and thanks to guides like Tom, we learned how the prison’s notorious reputation tied into Dickens’ stories. One reviewer mentioned that “this was a very informative tour” and appreciated the passionate storytelling, which truly brought the history alive.

Next, you’ll venture to Crossbones Graveyard & Garden of Remembrance, an evocative spot that holds the remains of many of Southwark’s outcasts. With a brief five-minute stop, the visit offers a chance to reflect on the city’s less glamorous history—something many travelers overlook. The reviewer galore appreciated the depth of knowledge, noting that “our guide was very knowledgeable and engaging,” which made the stories of these forgotten souls all the more real.

One of the standout sites is the Hop Exchange, a grand Victorian building that was once at the heart of Southwark’s brewing industry. Here, you’ll learn about London’s once-prosperous beer trade, and why this exchange is the last surviving reminder of that lively era. This site offers a taste of the local industry that fueled the city’s social life for centuries, and many found it fascinating to see this historic structure still standing today.

The tour continues to the George Inn, London’s last surviving galleried coaching inn. Sitting under its wooden beams, you get a feel for what it was like to travel through old London. A reviewer noted, “Tom shared so many colorful stories,” that the guide’s vivid descriptions really enriched this visit.

The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret is next—a rare chance to see Europe’s oldest surviving operating theatre. This stop is a real highlight for history buffs, offering a visceral look into medicine’s past. Visitors often comment on the guide’s enthusiasm and the way they bring the site’s history to life, making it more than just a museum.

London Bridge, perhaps London’s most iconic bridge, provides a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to discuss its many iterations and legends. This stop offers a practical break in the walk, and many appreciate the chance to snap photos of the river and city skyline.

Southwark Cathedral, London’s oldest surviving gothic church, adds a spiritual dimension to the tour. Its architecture and history are fascinating, especially considering its proximity to more scandalous sites. As one reviewer put it, “The guide explained the history vividly and made the Gothic architecture more accessible.”

Borough Market, with over a thousand years of history, is a food lover’s paradise. While you only stop briefly, it’s a chance to soak in the lively atmosphere and maybe grab a snack. The market’s history as a trading hub is palpable, and guides often share stories about its evolution over the centuries.

Winchester Palace’s remains tell the story of medieval London’s grandeur, and the Clink Prison Museum stands as a stark reminder of London’s criminal past—both fitting stops for this tour’s theme of London’s seedier side.

Finally, the tour culminates at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, reconstructed to resemble the original Elizabethan playhouse. This site ties the area’s literary legacy into the gritty stories you’ve heard, giving a rounded picture of Southwark’s cultural importance.

Why the Tour Works

What sets this tour apart is the passion and knowledge of guides like Tom, who don’t just recite facts but tell stories that bring history to life. Multiple reviews mention how engaging guides are, with one saying, “He shared so many colorful stories” that it felt like stepping back in time. This lively storytelling makes history both accessible and memorable.

The small group size ensures that questions are welcomed, and you can get a more personalized experience. For those who love authentic storytelling, this is a big plus. Plus, the cost strikes a good balance—offering a rich experience without breaking the bank. Compared to larger, more commercial tours, this one feels intimate and thoughtfully curated.

The itinerary is well-paced, with about five minutes at each stop, allowing a quick glance at each site without feeling rushed. This is perfect for travelers who want a broad overview without dedicating an entire day, and it offers enough flexibility to return to specific sites afterward if desired.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price-wise, at just under $28, you’re getting a compact, layered story of London’s past—covering everything from prisons and markets to literary landmarks. The value is particularly high given the variety of sites visited and the quality of storytelling.

Duration is approximately two hours, which makes it an easy add-on to a day’s sightseeing. Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk is primarily on foot and involves several quick stops. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with reviews emphasizing its accessibility.

The tour begins at Borough High Street and concludes near Shakespeare’s Globe, so it’s conveniently located near public transportation options, making it easy to include in a broader sightseeing itinerary.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular, often booked around 45 days ahead. You’ll want to plan ahead to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.

The Sum Up

This walking tour provides a well-rounded, engaging way to explore Southwark’s less polished, more intriguing past. With a focus on literary history, criminal tales, and historic sites, it appeals to travelers interested in stories that go beyond the typical London attractions. The knowledgeable guides, particularly Tom, bring history to life with colorful tales, making the experience both fun and educational.

Ideal for those who appreciate a more authentic, story-rich exploration, this tour is especially suited for visitors wanting to understand London’s rougher, more colorful side—from the prisons and markets to the iconic theatre. It’s a perfect way to see a different facet of London, especially if you enjoy learning about the city’s gritty, lively, and fascinating history.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with about five minutes at each of the 11 stops, making it a manageable and engaging experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins on Borough High Street and ends near Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre at 21 New Globe Walk, making it easy to fit into your sightseeing plans.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a guided walk led by a knowledgeable guide, with all stops being outdoor visits. No additional tickets or transportation are included, but the stops are all free to explore briefly.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves walking and quick stops, wear comfortable shoes and consider your walking pace.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 45 days in advance, as the tour is popular and tends to sell out.

What about group size?
The tour is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, making it a low-risk option for planning your trip.

This tour offers a rare chance to see London through a more colorful and literary lens, with stories that linger long after the walk ends. Whether you’re a history buff, a literature lover, or just curious about London’s seedier past, it’s a worthwhile addition to any London visit.