Viator Rating : 5 (93 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.2/10 (Verified Excellent)
London
London's Bawdy Borough: Booze, Brothels & Bard Walking Tour
120
Overview
Booze, Brothels & The Bard: A Walking Tour of London's Bawdy Borough takes visitors on a journey through a thousand years of London's wild side. This walking tour explores the historic Borough and Bankside areas, once known for their less-than-respectable activities, meeting William Shakespeare, medieval Winchester Geese prostitutes, Charles Dickens, the ghost of a nineteenth century pub landlady, and the wonderfully named Doorkins Magnificat!
Participants will discover how being outside the City of London's rules allowed this area to become a haven for entertainment and other activities. The tour visits the sites of Southwark's infamous prisons, parts of which can still be seen today, as well as a market that's been around for a thousand years and the ruins of a medieval palace. The tour also visits Shakespeare's Globe, both the original site and the modern reconstruction.
The walking tour begins outside Borough Station and ends near London Bridge Station. It takes about two hours to walk the two-mile route. This experience includes a guide but does not include gratuities. The tour is limited to fifteen people to ensure a more personal experience. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Quality (10 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Instagram Factor (6 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
Explore London's wild history: Uncover the secrets of Borough and Bankside's bawdy past.
See historic landmarks: Visit sites like the Clink Prison and Shakespeare's Globe.
Walk with an expert guide: Learn from a knowledgeable guide who brings history to life.
Small group size: Enjoy a more personal experience with a limited group of 15.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the tour guide's knowledge and engaging stories.
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Many enjoyed learning about the history and hidden gems of the Borough.
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Visitors appreciated the small group size, which made the tour feel personal.
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People found the tour to be a fun and unique way to explore London.
Some reviewers noted that the weather can impact the enjoyment of the outdoor tour.
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A few people mentioned that the tour could involve a good amount of walking.
The Journey
Marshalsea Prison
Step back in time at the remaining fragment of Marshalsea Prison, a poignant reminder of the harsh realities of 18th and 19th-century debtor's prisons. Once a sprawling complex, now a small section offers a glimpse into the lives of those incarcerated, including Charles Dickens's own father, whose experiences profoundly influenced his writing. Visit this site to contemplate the social injustices of the past and connect with a literary legacy.
Cross Bones Graveyard
Reflect on the lives of Southwark's forgotten at Cross Bones Graveyard, the final resting place for thousands of the district's poorest and outcast dead, particularly 'single women' (believed to be prostitutes). This unconsecrated ground is now a poignant memorial garden, offering a space for contemplation and remembrance. Experience the power of collective memory as you honor those whose stories were once silenced.
Anchor Brewery
Raise a glass to Southwark's brewing heritage at the site of the former Anchor Brewery, a significant symbol of the area's historic beer trade. Though the original brewery is gone, the area holds the legacy of brewing in the architecture and memory of the district. Explore the surrounding streets, where echoes of the past resonate in the pubs and taverns that continue to thrive.
The George Inn
Step back in time at The George Inn, London's last surviving galleried coaching inn. Experience the atmosphere of a bygone era as you wander through its timbered courtyards and imagine the bustling activity of travelers arriving by stagecoach. Enjoy a traditional pub meal and soak up the unique ambiance of this historic landmark, a true hidden gem.
Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garret
Witness a unique and unsettling piece of medical history at the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garret, Europe's oldest surviving operating theatre. Located in the attic of St Thomas' Church, this atmospheric museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the brutal realities of pre-anesthetic surgery. Discover the remedies and instruments used in 19th-century procedures and gain a new appreciation for modern medicine.
London Bridge
Marvel at the iconic London Bridge, a symbol of the city's enduring spirit and engineering prowess. While not the original structure of 'London Bridge is Falling Down' fame, the current bridge offers breathtaking views of the Thames and the surrounding landmarks. Capture stunning photos, feel the energy of the city, and reflect on the bridge's rich history, from Roman times to the present day.
Southwark Cathedral
Discover the architectural splendor and spiritual tranquility of Southwark Cathedral, London's oldest surviving gothic church. Explore its stunning stained glass windows, admire its intricate stonework, and discover its rich history, dating back over 1,000 years. Attend a service or simply wander through its hallowed halls, immersing yourself in the cathedral's peaceful atmosphere.
Borough Market
Immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and tastes of Borough Market, a vibrant food market with a history stretching back over 1,000 years. Sample artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, gourmet street food, and exotic ingredients from around the world. Engage with passionate vendors, soak up the bustling atmosphere, and indulge in a culinary adventure.
Winchester Palace
Explore the atmospheric ruins of Winchester Palace, once one of the most prestigious homes in medieval England and the London residence of the Bishops of Winchester. Discover the remnants of its grand hall, admire the surviving rose window, and imagine the lavish banquets and political intrigue that once unfolded within its walls. Step back in time and uncover the secrets of this forgotten palace.
Clink Prison Museum
Descend into the depths of the notorious Clink Prison Museum, built on the site of what was once one of England's oldest and most infamous prisons. Discover tales of torture, rebellion, and survival as you explore the prison's dark and claustrophobic cells. This immersive museum offers a chilling glimpse into the harsh realities of medieval incarceration.
Shakespeare's Globe
Experience the magic of Elizabethan theatre at the reconstructed Shakespeare's Globe, a faithful recreation of the original playhouse. Attend a performance and be transported back to the 17th century, or take a tour and learn about the history of the Globe and the life and works of William Shakespeare. Stand in the yard where the groundlings once stood and feel the energy of the stage.
Know Before You Go
This walking tour includes the services of a knowledgeable guide. Gratuities are not included. The tour starts outside Borough Station and concludes near London Bridge Station. Please note that the tour involves approximately two miles of walking.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking. Also, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the tour is primarily outdoors. Bring an umbrella or raincoat if it's likely to rain!
Review Summary
People finds this tour highly engaging, with 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence for its entertaining coverage of London's bawdy history around Borough and Bankside. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides, small group size, and unique sites like Shakespeare's Globe and Crossbones Graveyard, though no specific negative points are noted in available Viator details.[1]
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