Booze, Brothels & the Bard: London’s Bawdy Borough

Traveling through London’s Southwark district? Then this tour, focused on the area’s notorious past and its connections to Shakespeare and Dickens, offers a wonderfully frank look at a neighborhood once infamous for its saloons, prisons, and seedier side. At just under two hours and costing around $27 per person, it’s an accessible way to peel back the layers of history that define this lively part of London.

What we really love about this experience is the way it balances humor and historical insight. The guides, especially Tom Currie, pack in fascinating facts that bring Southwark’s bawdy past to life—whether it’s stories of medieval prostitutes or the remains of old prisons. One thing to keep in mind: the tour covers about two miles on foot, so it’s best suited for those comfortable walking and eager to explore on foot. If you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path look at London’s less polished history, this tour is a real winner.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and engaging guides, particularly Tom, bring the stories alive with confidence and humor.
• Rich in History: Over a thousand years of London’s less respectable history, including prisons, markets, and famous theatres.
• Concise and Intimate: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit real historical sites like Winchester Palace, Clink Prison, and the Globe Theatre.
• Value for Money: For around $27, you get a 2-hour, immersive walk through fascinating, seedy past of Southwark.
• Suitable for Ages: Not recommended for children under 13, but perfect for adult history enthusiasts.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Borough Station

The tour kicks off just outside Borough Station, on Borough High Street, where your guide stands with an “Historic London Tours” sign. This spot is central, easy to find, and sets the tone for a deep dive into London’s seedier past.

Exploring the Marshalsea Prison

One of the most famous prisons in London’s history, the Marshalsea, once held debtors and was notably Dickens’ inspiration for settings in his novels. The guide offers a quick five-minute overview, helping us picture the grim conditions and shady dealings associated with it. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s deep knowledge makes the history truly come alive.

Crossbones Garden

This haunting site is a burial ground for the ‘ Winchester Geese’—medieval prostitutes licensed to work in Southwark. The guided five-minute stop sheds light on the area’s reputation for vice, with the guide sharing stories of the women who lived and worked here. It’s a quiet but powerful reminder of the area’s bygone reputation.

The Hop Exchange & The George Inn

Next, we visit the historic Hop Exchange and the oldest surviving galleried inn, The George. Both spots are rich with stories—The George, with its centuries of history, was once a popular pub for locals and literary figures alike. The guide’s friendly chatter makes these stops feel like chatting with an enthusiastic historian over a pint.

Borough Market

The bustling Borough Market offers a modern contrast to the area’s seedy past. Here, the guide shares how this market, dating back over a thousand years, has evolved from a place of dubious dealings to a foodie’s haven. Visitors love the way the tour blends old and new, making history feel tangible and relevant.

The Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garret

A rare glimpse into Victorian medicine, this site offers a fascinating look at 19th-century surgical practices. The guide’s brief five-minute talk highlights the contrast between the area’s gritty past and its medical innovations, adding depth to the tour.

Southwark Cathedral & London Bridge

These iconic landmarks serve as a reminder of the area’s spiritual and commercial significance. The guide connects Dickens’ stories to actual locations, enriching the experience for literature buffs. As one reviewer mentioned, the guide’s friendly banter and insights helped us “feel the atmosphere” of old London.

Winchester Palace & Clink Prison

The remains of Winchester Palace and the Clink Prison are tangible remnants of Southwark’s medieval and early modern past. The short visits offer vivid snapshots of the area’s reputation for vice and incarceration, with the guide weaving in colorful stories that keep the history engaging.

The Globe Theatre & Shakespeare’s Legacy

No visit here would be complete without a nod to William Shakespeare. Visiting both the site of the original Globe and the modern reconstruction, the guide provides context about how Southwark became the birthplace of London’s theatrical tradition. Visitors particularly appreciated the detailed storytelling, as one reviewer pointed out, “It was fascinating to learn about Shakespeare’s connection to the area.”

Why the Guides Make the Difference

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s guides, especially Tom Currie, for their depth of knowledge and approachable manner. One reviewer said, “Tom’s confidence and ability to answer questions made this tour both fun and informative.” The guides’ blend of storytelling and historical facts makes the experience feel genuine and engaging, rather than just a checklist of sites.

Practicalities & Value

For just under $30, you’re getting a well-structured, two-hour walk led by a knowledgeable guide. The total distance is about two miles—perfect for those who enjoy a brisk walk and want to see several key sites in Southwark. The limited group size of 15 ensures a friendly, intimate atmosphere, where questions are encouraged and stories flow naturally.

While the tour doesn’t include entry to sites like the Globe Theatre or the Old Operating Theatre Museum, it offers excellent context and the chance to see real remains and historic sites. Many visitors appreciate this balanced approach—getting a taste of history without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Experience’s Flavor

What sets this tour apart is its authentic feel. It’s not just a sightseeing walk; it’s storytelling rooted in real history, with a focus on the neighborhood’s bawdier days. As one reviewer mentioned, “It was fun and informative, and I could really feel the atmosphere of the place.” That’s because the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling bring to life areas that might otherwise seem just like old buildings.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, literary fans, and those curious about London’s more controversial past. If you enjoy stories of prisons, old markets, and Shakespeare, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also suitable for travelers who want to combine walking, learning, and a slightly cheeky look into London’s past.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 13, given the mature themes discussed. Expect a tour that’s lively, a little gritty, and filled with stories that reveal how Southwark earned its reputation.

Final Thoughts

Booze, Brothels & the Bard: London’s Bawdy Borough delivers an authentic, engaging look at one of London’s most colorful neighborhoods. With a focus on storytelling and expert guidance, it offers a rare window into a side of London often hidden behind modern facades.

This tour provides excellent value for its price—especially if you’re eager to see real historical sites, learn intriguing stories, and walk through vibrant streets that still whisper tales of their seedy past. It’s ideal for curious travelers who love a mix of history, literature, and lively city atmosphere.

If you’re after a friendly, well-informed guide and a walk that combines London’s literary and risqué history, this experience won’t disappoint.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 13 due to mature themes related to prostitution and historical prisons.

How long is the walking component?
The total walk is approximately two miles, spread over about two hours, making it manageable for most walkers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts just outside Borough Station on Borough High Street and finishes near London Bridge Station, making it convenient for those traveling around central London.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the guidance provided by a knowledgeable tour guide. Entry to sites or additional experiences are not included.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 15 participants to ensure an intimate experience and plenty of interaction with the guide.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

Are there any notable stops I should know about?
Yes, highlights include the remains of Winchester Palace, Clink Prison Museum, Globe Theatre sites, Borough Market, and historic pubs like The George Inn.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve and pay later, providing flexibility.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot early since the tour limits attendees to ensure a quality experience.

This guided walk through Southwark is an excellent way to discover a lively, often overlooked side of London. Whether you’re into history, literature, or just love a good story, you’ll find this tour offers a fascinating, fun-packed two hours.