Our lovely guides Jenny and Elaine return this spring with a new walk for us – this time, around Bermondsey.
Bermondsey is steeped in history, much of which is still visible today. As well the famous tourist attractions on the banks of the Thames, a vast area of Bermondsey is less well known despite its fascinating history. This part of South London was first put on the medieval map by a Benedictine Abbey which was constructed in 1082. In the 19th century it was the centre of London’s tanning and leather industry. The obnoxious emissions from this trade spread over West Bermondsey, but the people in the east of the area enjoyed the sweet smells billowing from the chimney of Peek and Frean’s biscuit factory. In the early 20th century Bermondsey was known as the larder of London because of its river side warehouses that received and stored vast quantities of food including flour, sugar and tea. During WW2 it suffered more bombing than any other part of London. Today it’s chic and trendy with bars, galleries and theatres. But its street names, buildings and open spaces reveal a past influenced by a monastery, industrialisation and markets. This walk will start at the Tooley Street entrance to London Bridge underground and finish close to the base of the Shard next to London Bridge Rail Station. If you’d like to join the walk sign up at our next meeting or email . The walk will cost £5 per person and we will meet at 5.45 for a 6 pm start.