Explore London’s Dark Side with the Naughty London: Unsavoury History Walking Tour

For those curious about the less-polished stories of London, the Naughty London: Unsavoury History Walking Tour offers a captivating journey into the city’s shadowy past. Priced at $22.90 per person, this 2-hour outdoor tour explores the notorious neighborhoods of Southwark, revealing tales of pirates, prisons, Tudor intrigue, and Victorian engineering. With a small group limited to 6 participants, it promises a personalized experience led by Natalie, a lively and knowledgeable guide.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, lovers of local legends, or anyone interested in discovering the darker corners of London. It’s a straightforward walk that doesn’t require special equipment—just comfortable shoes and water—making it suitable for most eager explorers. The tour runs come rain or shine, ensuring you get to uncover London’s secrets regardless of the weather.

Key Points

Price: $22.90 per person for a 2-hour outdoor walking experience
Highlights include a ship with a world record, connections to Harry Potter, and a medieval palace in Southwark
Small group size (max 6 participants) enhances the personalized storytelling aspect
Led by Natalie, a lively guide recognized for her fun, informative style
Includes tales of English ships, Scottish royalty, prisons, Tudor theatre, and Victorian engineering
Reviews praise the tour for its entertaining storytelling and historical insights

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Discover the Legendary Ship with a World Record

One of the standout moments of this tour is the chance to marvel at Francis Drake’s ship, celebrated for holding a world record. While the precise details of the record are not specified, the presence of this ship in the tour adds a tangible link to London’s maritime history. Guests get to learn how this vessel fits into the broader story of English ships and their importance in shaping London’s past.

This segment introduces visitors to naval adventures and explores the significance of England’s seafaring exploits. The ship’s connection to historical narratives is explained in an engaging way, making the story accessible even to those new to maritime history.

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The Connection Between The Bishop of Winchester and Harry Potter

A surprising highlight of the tour is the link between The Bishop of Winchester and the world of Harry Potter. While the details are not elaborated here, this tidbit demonstrates how the tour blends real historical figures with popular culture references. It offers a fresh perspective on familiar stories, making history feel lively and relevant.

Guests can expect an explanation of how this connection ties into London’s medieval past and its influence on modern storytelling. It’s a fun way to see how history and fiction intertwine in the city’s fabric.

A Medieval Palace in Southwark

The tour reveals the location of a medieval palace nestled right in the heart of Southwark. While not named explicitly, the presence of such a site highlights London’s architectural history and the significance of Southwark as a hub of nobility and power during medieval times.

Walking through the area, visitors get a sense of medieval life and the palace’s role amidst London’s darker history. It’s a reminder of how historical sites often sit quietly among modern buildings but still tell stories of royalty and rebellion.

Tales of London’s Notorious Past Along the Embankment

The route follows the embankment from Millennium Bridge to Tower Bridge, with numerous stops that bring London’s unsavory stories to life. As the guide shares tales of Scottish royalty, London prisons, and Tudor theatre, the walk feels like stepping through different historical eras.

Each stop introduces a new piece of the city’s less-glamorous history, from prison tales to villainous figures in Tudor London. The route’s design ensures a varied pace, with enough stories and sights to keep guests engaged.

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Richard III, The Princes in The Tower, and Victorian Engineering

The tour features Royal history, including the story of Richard III and the Princes in The Tower. These grim tales are woven into the larger narrative of London’s monarchy, adding depth and intrigue.

Plus, the tour touches on Victorian engineering, highlighting how technological achievements impacted the city’s dark and light moments. The stories of progress and corruption intertwine, giving a complete picture of London’s complex history.

Interested in history? Here are other past-focused experiences we've examined in London

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Guide

This outdoor-only tour begins just outside the City of London Information Centre. Guests meet Natalie, a quirky short lady known for her engaging storytelling and lively personality. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the tour covers a fair amount of ground. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and questions throughout.

Flexibility and Booking Options

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility in planning. Booking is simple, with an option to reserve now and pay later—ideal for those with unpredictable schedules. Since the tour runs rain or shine, guests should prepare accordingly but can expect an engaging experience regardless of weather.

The Guide: Natalie’s Style and Expertise

Based on reviews, Natalie is praised for providing a fun and informative experience. She is well-versed in hidden historical facts, making the stories entertaining and educational. Her ability to answer questions and keep the group engaged is a key strength, according to positive feedback.

Her personable approach and storytelling flair make the tour more memorable and enjoyable, especially in such a small group setting.

Who Should Join This Tour?

This tour appeals most to adults and teens over 16 who have an interest in London’s darker history and quirky stories. It’s ideal for those wanting a light but informative walk through Southwark’s notorious past, with plenty of fun facts and historical anecdotes.

Since it’s an outdoor walk, it’s suitable for most fitness levels, though participants should be prepared for a fair amount of walking.

Final Thoughts on the Naughty London Tour

The Naughty London: Unsavoury History Walking Tour offers a lively, entertaining glimpse into London’s darker stories. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make it a highly personalized experience. For $22.90, it delivers value for money with plenty of stories, sights, and surprises.

While it may not suit very young children or those preferring a more polished or scenic tour, it excels at revealing the city’s edgier side. Travel enthusiasts who enjoy history with a twist will find this tour both educational and fun.

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Naughty London: Unsavoury History Walking Tour

5.0

“What an enjoyable tour! I've been to the South Bank before, but Natalie helped me to see it in a new light. Looking forward to her new tours in Lon…”

— Olga, July 9, 2023