“I will dunk you in the river…and then reveal my mystery…”
John Constable, Southwark Mysteries
Southwark…Most know it today for the tourist destinations of Borough Market, Southwark cathedral, London Bridge, The Globe, among others. But behind the bustling Bankside streets there is a much more sordid and dark history.
For over two millennia ‘south of the river’ has always been a wild place of debauchery and vice. From the Roman occupation, through to the Medieval and Elizabethan eras and right up to the 20th century, Southwark has rightly earned its as a "Foul dene, rather than a Fairy garden" unknown, 17th century. We know the men behind this history: Shakespeare, Sir Francis Drake, King Henry VIII, the Bishops of Winchester.
But what about the women?
After all, as the Church believes, where there is sin…there is a woman!
Enter: "Lydia Clamydia". Your local Roman Whore Guide, who is here to correct this imbalance! Lydia has left her long slumber in the spirit world to guide you through Southwark’s HERstory and bring to life Southwark’s colourful past. As she guides you along the river and through the backstreets, you will be introduced to among others:
A Pagan Goddess who inspired orgies…
An infamous Brothel owner…
A very unlucky Nun…
A Winchester goose or two…
A supernatural entity that curses men who offend her!…
A Victorian working class heroine or two…
Starting at Southwark Cathedral and ending on Red Cross Way, you will visit some of the lesser known spots of the area and have an opportunity to see Southwark from a new, feminist-focussed perspective. Stories will be brought to life with humorous theatrical interludes. Expect drama, spoken word, and, at times, gentle audience participation!
At the end of the journey, you will have the option to join your Guide for a tipple in a local Edwardian pub to digest what you have seen, heard and learned!
This walking tour last approximately 1.5 hours and is predominantly flat, with one set of descending steps. There are no toilet or rest stops en route.