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

A Walking Tour of London’s Bawdy Borough

Embark on a tantalizing journey through the heart of London’s most notorious and captivating neighborhood – the Borough. This 5-star rated walking tour promises to immerse you in the vibrant and scandalous history of this area, where the lure of the tavern, the allure of the brothel, and the brilliance of Shakespeare’s words intertwine to create a mesmerizing tapestry of debauchery, drama, and literary genius.

As you step into the cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported back in time to an era when the Borough was a hub of vice and revelry, a place where the wealthy and the destitute, the pious and the profane, all mingled in a dizzying whirl of excess and indulgence. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a captivating exploration, weaving together the tales of the notorious taverns, the secretive brothels, and the larger-than-life characters who made this neighborhood their domain.

Begin your journey at the iconic George Inn, a historic watering hole that has been quenching the thirst of Londoners for centuries. Imagine the roar of laughter and the clinking of glasses as you stand in the shadow of this grand, timbered building, where Shakespeare himself is said to have enjoyed a pint or two. As you sip your own libation, your guide will regale you with tales of the inn’s colorful past, from bawdy brawls to illicit trysts.

From the George Inn, venture deeper into the Borough, where the sounds of revelry give way to the whispers of scandal. Uncover the hidden alleyways and narrow passages that once served as the hunting ground for the borough’s most infamous madams, each with her own story of power, seduction, and survival in a world dominated by men. Marvel at the ingenuity and resilience of these women as you learn about their ingenious methods of evading the authorities and catering to the desires of their patrons.

As you navigate the labyrinthine streets, your guide will transport you to the era of Shakespeare, when the Borough was a hub of theatrical activity. Discover the stomping grounds of the Bard himself, as you explore the sites where he found inspiration and where his immortal works were first brought to life. Step into the shadows of the historic Rose Theatre, where the thunderous applause and the scandalized gasps of the audience once echoed, and imagine the thrill of witnessing a performance in this hallowed space.

Throughout your journey, you’ll encounter the ghosts of the past – the colorful characters who have left an indelible mark on the borough’s history. From the notorious highwaymen who prowled the streets at night to the eccentric literary figures who made this neighborhood their home, each story will captivate and intrigue you, drawing you ever deeper into the tapestry of London’s bawdy past.

As you approach the end of your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the final resting place of one of the most beloved figures in English literature – William Shakespeare. Stand in awe before his grave, and reflect on the enduring legacy of this literary giant, whose words have transcended the boundaries of time and space to touch the hearts and minds of people the world over.

The Booze, Brothels & The Bard: A Walking Tour of London’s Bawdy Borough is a truly unique and unforgettable experience, offering a tantalizing blend of history, scandal, and literary brilliance. Whether you’re a seasoned London enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this tour promises to ignite your imagination and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich and captivating heritage of this remarkable neighborhood.

Additional Features

Additional Information

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Please bring your ticket with you to the attraction.
• Be aware that operators may cancel for unforeseen reasons.
• You need to be 18 years or older to book or be accompanied by an adult.
• Operated by Historic London Tours