The murders of Jack the Ripper with a pub

Discover the shadows of Victorian London on the Jack the Ripper tour, where history, mystery, and a touch of local charm come together. Starting at the Aldgate Station, this 2-hour walking experience takes you through the very streets where Jack the Ripper committed his infamous crimes in the late 1800s. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Valery, who gets rave reviews—you’ll visit the alleys and buildings linked to the murders, finishing up with a round of drinks at a historic pub tied to the story. For a price of $233, it’s an intimate, active way to learn about one of London’s most enduring mysteries.

What makes this tour special? First, the detailed storytelling and local insights help you see the area far beyond what a bus or car tour could offer. Second, the included drinks at a historic pub give a lively finish to an already memorable walk. We love how it’s tailored for groups of friends and active travelers who prefer exploring on foot rather than staying on a bus, making the experience more authentic and engaging.

A possible consideration? The tour is relatively short—just two hours—so if you’re hoping for a deep dive into the entire Ripper saga, you might want to supplement this with additional research or visits. Also, the price might seem a bit steep for some, but considering that drinks are included and the guided storytelling is personalized, many find it offers good value for the immersive experience.

This tour suits history buffs, true crime fans, or anyone interested in Victorian London’s darker side. If you enjoy stories brought to life by passionate guides and prefer exploring on foot in a manageable group size, this experience will hit the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic Walking Tour: Get up close to narrow streets and alleys linked to Jack the Ripper’s crimes.
• Expert Guide: Learn detailed stories and historical context from a knowledgeable guide, like Valery.
• Inclusive Experience: Enjoy drinks at a historic pub, which is included in the price.
• Focused Duration: Just 2 hours, perfect for a quick yet immersive glimpse into Victorian London’s dark past.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Perfect for those who prefer walking and exploring in small groups.
• Legally Accessible & Easy to Join: Mobile tickets make booking and joining straightforward.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Aldwych Tube Station

The journey begins at the historic Aldwych Station, where your guide will set the scene with stories about London’s 19th-century slum conditions and the seedy East End. This initial stop offers a glimpse into the environment that shaped Victorian London—a city of stark contrasts, with wealth and poverty living side by side. Walking toward the streets where the Victorian sex trade flourished, you’ll start to understand the gritty backdrop of the Ripper’s reign of terror.

Walking Through Spitalfields and the Crime Scenes

Next, the tour moves into Spitalfields, an area rich in history and atmosphere. Here, you’ll visit the sites of the murders of Mary Ann Nichols and Catherine Eddows—two of Jack the Ripper’s victims—getting a sense of the grim reality faced by women in that era. The guide will point out where these crimes unfolded, highlighting alleyways and buildings that seem unchanged despite the passage of more than a century.

A highlight is passing through the historic pub, the 10 Bells, which had a dual role—serving drinks and hosting workers. This pub’s connection to the victims and the local community adds a tangible dimension to the story. As you listen to tales of the brutal killings, you’ll appreciate how these dark episodes are woven into London’s fabric.

Notable Landmarks and Surprising Sights

The journey includes a quick stop at 30 St Mary Axe—the iconic Gherkin skyscraper—adding a dash of modern London to the Victorian narrative. While the Ripper’s crimes belong to the past, this contrast reminds you how the city has evolved, yet still holds onto its history in alleyways and stories.

The Finale: Drinks at the Historic Pub

The tour wraps up with a visit to a local pub associated with the story. This isn’t just about having a drink; it’s about experiencing a piece of London’s layered history firsthand. The included beverages allow you to reflect on what you’ve seen and heard, socializing in a space that’s part of the story itself.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Unlike larger, more generic bus tours, this experience’s focused walking approach means you see the very streets where history happened. We loved the way the guide contextualized the crimes within the Victorian social landscape, making the stories more compelling and human. The small group size, capped at 20, ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere—crucial for such a dark, layered topic.

The inclusion of drinks is a thoughtful touch—sharing a local brew or a pint in a historic pub makes the experience feel genuine and relaxed. As one review notes, Valery’s storytelling is vivid and engaging, often showing photos to help visualize how the area looked in the past, which enriches the experience further.

Cost and Value

At $233, this tour is on the pricier side for two hours, but consider that drinks are included and the storytelling is personalized. If you’re a true crime enthusiast or enjoy history presented by passionate guides, many find the price justified by the memories and knowledge gained.

Practical Details

• Duration: Just about 2 hours—perfect if you’re tight on time but want a meaningful experience.
• Meeting Point: Starting at Aldwych Station, easy to reach from central London.
• Time: The tour begins at 7:00 pm, ideal for an evening activity.
• Group Size: Limited to 20, ensuring a comfortable, engaging experience.
• Tickets: Mobile tickets make it simple to join—just show up ready for an active walk.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, true crime fans, and those who love guided storytelling. If you appreciate authentic, on-the-ground exploration rather than a drive-by overview, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also great for groups of friends looking for a memorable night out with a mix of education and entertainment.

However, if you prefer longer, more in-depth explorations or are sensitive to violent historical details, consider whether a brief two-hour walk suits your interests. Also, since drinks are included, those looking for a completely sober experience might want to plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s generally suitable for most adults, the dark themes might not be appropriate for young children, especially given the graphic nature of some stories.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves walking through narrow streets and alleyways, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s active but not strenuous.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially since the tour is capped at 20 travelers.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are included in the tour fee, providing a relaxed finish to the walk.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Will I see actual crime scenes?
You’ll visit sites associated with the murders, but these are public streets and buildings. It’s about the historical connection rather than actual crime scene preservation.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The description doesn’t specify accessibility, so check with the provider if you have mobility concerns.

Can I bring a camera or phone?
Absolutely—photos are encouraged, and the guide often shows pictures to help visualize historical scenes.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour is on foot from the starting point; no transport is included.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for walking are best. London weather can be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella if needed.

All in all, this Jack the Ripper tour offers an engaging glimpse into Victorian London’s dark side, with a lively finish over drinks. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who want to combine history, storytelling, and a touch of local culture in a small-group setting. If you enjoy authentic experiences that bring history to life, you’ll likely find this tour well worth the modest investment.