Jack the Ripper Walk with Fish and Chips

Explore the dark streets of Victorian London on the Jack the Ripper Walk with Fish and Chips, a compelling 2-hour and 15-minute tour priced at $40.27 per person. Starting from Aldgate Station, this tour guides you through 12 real murder sites in Whitechapel, enhanced by rare photos, newspaper clippings, and detailed crime scene insights. It’s perfect for those interested in true crime history and Victorian London, with the added bonus of enjoying authentic fish & chips near where Annie Chapman met her end.

This tour is designed for visitors who appreciate historical storytelling backed by visual references, combined with a casual walk through the East End’s notorious past. With a maximum group size of 35 travelers, it maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing for closer engagement with the guide and the rich history of London’s most infamous serial killer.

While the itinerary covers many key sites, note that some stops include free admission (like the walking and street visits), with a few locations such as Petticoat Lane Market and The Ten Bells not including entry costs. The tour also involves moderate physical activity, so it suits those with average mobility. Overall, it offers a balanced mix of history, storytelling, and cultural exploration, punctuated with a taste of traditional London fare.

Key Points

• Authentic walk through 12 actual murder sites linked to Jack the Ripper
• Includes fish & chips at a historic venue, Poppies, near Whitechapel
• Guided by knowledgeable local guides, with detailed visuals and rare photos
• Tour duration of 2 hours 15 minutes, partly walking and storytelling
• Starts at Aldgate Station and ends near Liverpool Street Station
• Maximum group size of 35 travelers for a personalized experience

Starting Point in the Heart of London’s East End

The tour begins at Aldgate Station, a central spot in London’s historic East End. From there, the guide takes you to the outside of St Botolph’s Church, famously called the Prostitutes Church because women once solicited around the island. This initial stop sets the scene for the poverty, crime, and crowded streets of Whitechapel in 1888.

The meeting point is convenient for public transport, making it easy to access from most parts of London. The tour proceeds on foot, covering key streets and landmarks linked to Jack the Ripper’s infamous crimes.

Exploring the Crime Scene at Aldgate Square and Mitre Street

The walk moves to Aldgate Square, where descriptions of Whitechapel’s squalid living conditions in 1888 come alive. The guide explains the harsh realities faced by residents, setting the tone for the grisly story.

Next, the group visits EC3A 5BU, near Mitre Street, the location where Elizabeth Stride—also called “Long Liz”—became one of Jack the Ripper’s victims during the double event. Here, the guide discusses the first victim, Elizabeth Stride, and her murder, providing context with visuals and historical details.

The Boundary of London: Petticoat Lane and Gunthorpe Street

The tour then approaches Middlesex Street, historically known as Petticoat Lane Market. This street marked the boundary between the City of London and the Metropolitan Police area, an important detail considering the different police forces involved at the time.

Moving on to Gunthorpe Street, the site where Martha Tabram was found murdered on August 7, 1888. She’s considered by many experts to be Jack the Ripper’s most likely first victim. The guide points out the viewing spot from Wentworth Street, explaining the significance of this location in the killer’s timeline.

From Thrawl Street to Hanbury Street: The Victims’ Last Moments

Continuing along Thrawl Street, opposite the Frying Pan Pub, the guide details the last drink Mary Ann Nichols had before her murder in Bucks Row. This site is crucial as Nichols was the first of Jack the Ripper’s confirmed victims.

Moving into Hanbury Street, the tour visits the backyard of 29 Hanbury Street, where Annie Chapman was murdered. The guide shares insights into her final moments, with visuals that depict the crime scene, helping visitors understand the gruesome details.

Wilkes Street and the Dear Boss Letter

Next, the journey takes you into Wilkes Street, where Puma Court is located. Here, the Dear Boss letter, mailed during the murders, is discussed, revealing how the killer taunted police and the press. The guide explains the letter’s significance and how it influenced the public’s perception of the case.

The Ten Bells and Christchurch Graveyard

The tour stops outside The Ten Bells, a pub favored by Mary Kelly, another of Jack the Ripper’s victims. Across the street lies Christchurch Graveyard, known as Itchy Park, used as a daytime sleeping area for the homeless. The guide shares stories of the area’s gritty history and its connection to the Ripper’s story.

Visiting Old Spitalfields Market and the London Fruit & Wool Exchange

The next stops include Old Spitalfields Market, a historic marketplace still bustling today. Opposite the market, the London Fruit & Wool Exchange is where the group examines the infamous letter sent to George Lusk, head of the Whitechapel Vigilance Group, adding a layer of mystery to the case.

The Final Stop and Closure at the Murder of Mary Kelly

The tour concludes behind the London Fruit & Wool Exchange, at the site of Mary Kelly’s murder, Jack the Ripper’s last victim on November 9, 1888. From this point, it’s a short walk of about 5 minutes to Liverpool Street Station, making it convenient for onward travel.

The Fish & Chips Experience at Poppies

A distinctive feature of this tour is the inclusion of authentic fish & chips at Poppies, a historic London eatery in Whitechapel. Visitors enjoy this classic meal near where Annie Chapman’s tragic final moments unfolded, adding a comforting and authentic London flavor to the experience.

The fish & chips are part of the tour package, offering a casual break and a taste of local tradition amidst the dark tales of Whitechapel.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging Storytellers

Based on reviews, guides like Jenny and Lindsey excel in sharing their extensive knowledge of Jack the Ripper and Victorian London. They use visuals, newspapers, and photos to make the story more tangible, creating a fluid and descriptive atmosphere.

Guests praise their customer communication and storytelling, which makes the experience informative and engaging without feeling rushed. Their expertise enriches the walk, making each stop meaningful.

Practicalities and Group Size

The tour operates with a maximum of 35 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size where questions and discussions are welcomed. It departs from Aldgate Station and ends near Liverpool Street Station, making it easy to access public transportation.

Physical stamina is recommended, as the tour involves walking through historic streets and some uneven surfaces. The tour features a modest duration of just over two hours, allowing enough time for narration and exploration without fatigue.

Booking, Cancellation, and Value

This mobile ticket tour is often booked 5 days in advance, indicating steady interest. The price of $40.27 includes the guided walk, visuals, and fish & chips, making it a worthwhile experience for those interested in dark history and London’s past.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for planning. It’s a good choice for visitors wanting a structured, immersive experience with a food component, set within the historic streets of Whitechapel.

Jack the Ripper Walk with Fish and Chips: An Honest Wrap-up

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Jack the Ripper’s crimes, combining historical storytelling with visual aids and a taste of London’s culinary tradition. Visitors keen on learning about the case’s details and seeing the actual sites will find it engaging and educational.

The inclusion of fish & chips at Poppies adds a cultural touch that complements the dark history. The guides’ expertise and the tour’s well-planned stops make it a recommended activity for enthusiasts of true crime and Victorian London.

However, those with limited mobility should consider the walking involved. The tour’s rich content, moderate pace, and detailed storytelling make it a compelling way to experience London’s notorious past in an accessible format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is designed for adults and older teens interested in history and crime stories. The content involves some dark and potentially disturbing details.

How long is the walk, and what is the physical demand?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, with walking through historic streets. Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to uneven surfaces and outdoor walking.

Does the tour include entry to any museums or buildings?
No, most stops are outdoor or street-side sites; some stops like Petticoat Lane Market or The Ten Bells do not include entry fees.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What’s unique about this tour compared to others?
The combination of authentic crime sites, rare visuals, and the fish & chips experience at a historic eatery makes this tour stand out. It offers a vivid, story-driven exploration of Jack the Ripper’s case within the actual streets of Whitechapel.

This detailed review highlights why the Jack the Ripper Walk with Fish and Chips remains a compelling option for those interested in London’s darker history, with the added charm of traditional British cuisine.