Gangster Tour of Londons East End Led by Actor Vas Blackwood

Discover the Gangster Secrets of London’s East End for Just $37.06

The Gangster Tour of London’s East End, led by actor Vas Blackwood, offers an engaging journey into the city’s criminal past. Priced at $37.06 per person, this 2-hour walking experience captures the gritty atmosphere of Whitechapel and beyond, revealing stories about notorious gangsters like the Kray Twins and Lenny McLean. The tour is highly recommended, with a rating of 5.0 from 322 reviews and 98% of participants suggesting it to others.

Starting in Whitechapel, this tour is perfect for those interested in London’s underworld, gangster history, and film locations. The mobile ticketing makes access easy, and the small group size—max 40 travelers—ensures a personalized experience. While the tour is packed with stories and sights, it involves moderate physical activity, so comfortable shoes are advised.

This experience is well-suited for fans of crime history, British cinema, and lively storytelling. Keep in mind, the tour runs over two hours and does not include hotel pickup or food, focusing solely on the area’s crime lore and film spots.

Key Points

• Guided by Vas Blackwood, a well-known actor associated with gangster films
• Two-hour walking tour starting at Whitechapel Rd
• Visit real crime locations and film sites linked to London’s underworld
• Learn about the Kray Twins, Ronnie and Reggie, and their notorious reign
• Enjoy engaging storytelling and banter from a charismatic guide
• Moderate physical activity, suitable for most able travelers

Starting Point in Whitechapel’s Gritty Heart

The tour begins in Whitechapel, the area famous for Jack the Ripper and the East End gangsters of the 1950s and 60s. This neighborhood’s alleys and backstreets set the perfect scene for stories of London’s criminal underworld. Vas Blackwood, known for his roles in “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” and “Only Fools and Horses,” greets participants at the starting point on Whitechapel Rd.

From this central location, the tour’s pace is lively yet manageable. The guide’s background in film and TV adds an authentic flavor, as he shares both factual history and colorful tales. The route is designed to give a genuine sense of the area’s past, with visits to key landmarks and filming spots.

Exploring Whitechapel’s Crime and Film Landmarks

The walk includes visits to iconic locations like Repton Boys Club, where the Kray twins learned boxing, and the Blind Beggar pub, famous for its links to the Kray twins and Ronnie Knight. This pub is a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into the East End’s rough-and-tumble atmosphere.

Vas Blackwood narrates stories about Lenny McLean, a bareknuckle fighter turned actor, and Barbara Windsor, who married a Kray associate. The stories are lively, combining historical facts with Vas’s personal flair, making each site come alive with tales of gangster rivalries, loyalty, and violence.

Behind the Scenes at “Lock, Stock” Filming Locations

A standout feature is the behind-the-scenes look at filming locations from “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.” This segment offers film buffs a chance to stand where iconic scenes were shot, connecting London’s criminal history with its cinematic portrayal. Vas Blackwood’s Hollywood experience enhances this part, making it a fun and insightful stop for movie fans.

The Kray Twins and Their East End Reign

The Kray Twins—Ronnie and Reggie—dominate the story of London’s organized crime in the mid-20th century. The tour covers their rise to power, their tactics, and their eventual downfall. Vas explains how they bullied rivals and gained celebrity status, with stories about their public appearances and violent escapades.

The Repton Boys Club is a key location tied to their early days, helping visitors understand how their criminal careers started. The tour also mentions Ronnie’s murder of a rival at the Blind Beggar pub, a pivotal event that cemented their fearsome reputation.

Notorious Figures: Ronnie, Reggie, and Lenny McLean

The tour dives into the lives of famous London gangsters like Lenny McLean, known as the “Guv’nor,” who pivoted from bareknuckle fighting to acting, and Brown Bread Fred, a nickname that hints at the darker side of Cockney crime. Vas’s storytelling makes these figures real and human, blending their violent histories with their cultural impact.

Local Legends and Cockney Criminals

Beyond the Krays, the tour shares stories of local Cockney criminals, including Brown Bread Fred and others who left their mark on London’s criminal map. Vas Blackwood’s engaging delivery makes these tales entertaining and educational, giving a fuller picture of the East End’s rough-and-tumble past.

Visiting Crime Hotspots and Notorious Sites

Participants get to walk through neighborhoods associated with London’s criminal history, such as the alleys and backroads linked to gang activities. The tour emphasizes sites like Repton Boys Club and the Blind Beggar pub, where visitors can imagine the scenes of past crimes and legendary conflicts.

Vas Blackwood’s Storytelling Style and Character

Vas Blackwood’s reputation as a skilled raconteur is a highlight. Known for his roles in cult films and TV, he mixes humor, serious insight, and theatrical flair, keeping the group entertained throughout. His knowledge is praised as unsurpassed, with reviews often mentioning his engagement, banter, and authenticity.

He effortlessly transitions between storytelling and history, making complex tales accessible and fun. His ability to connect with the group, share local insights, and deliver stories with enthusiasm and humor makes the tour memorable.

Locations from “Lock, Stock” and Other Films

A personal favorite part is the visit to filming locations from “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.” Vas points out where iconic scenes took place, giving fans a tangible connection to London’s cinematic history. This segment combines film appreciation with local lore, making it ideal for movie buffs.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Timing

The tour departs at 2:00 pm from Whitechapel Rd and is scheduled for approximately 2 hours. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and plenty of interaction. With near public transportation, getting to the meeting point is straightforward, although hotel pickups are not included.

The tour runs over the scheduled time in many cases, with reviews mentioning it extends beyond two hours, which adds value. However, travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking and standing.

Booking, Cancellation, and Overall Value

Booking in advance is recommended, with the tour typically booked 44 days ahead, indicating its popularity. The price of $37.06 is considered an excellent value for such an in-depth, entertaining experience. The free cancellation policy allows for flexible planning, with cancellations accepted up to 24 hours before the start.

The tour’s focus on London’s underworld combined with film locations and a charismatic guide makes it a distinctive addition to any London itinerary. Its high ratings and glowing reviews attest to its appeal, especially for those interested in gangster history and British cinema.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to history buffs, film fans, and anyone curious about London’s darker side. The engaging storytelling, combined with site visits and film location insights, creates a lively, authentic experience.

While most people can participate comfortably, those sensitive to strong language or violent stories should be aware of the tour’s gritty content. The physical activity level is moderate, making it accessible for most travelers with a reasonable fitness level.

Final Thoughts on the London Gangster Tour

The Gangster Tour of London’s East End led by Vas Blackwood offers a fascinating glimpse into London’s criminal past with an engaging guide at the helm. Its high ratings, value for money, and unique stories make it a compelling choice for fans of crime history and British cinema.

The mix of real locations, film sites, and Vas’s lively narration creates an experience that’s both educational and entertaining. It’s an excellent way to explore London’s hidden stories, with the added bonus of meeting a charismatic guide who brings the East End’s gangster legends vividly to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $37.06 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Whitechapel Rd in London.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers will enjoy it, those sensitive to violent or strong language content might want to consider the gritty stories.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is Vas Blackwood known for?
Vas Blackwood is known for his roles in “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” and “Only Fools and Horses,” and his storytelling makes the tour lively and authentic.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, it is near public transit options, making access straightforward.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through alleys and streets.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The combination of authentic gangster stories, film locations, and Vas Blackwood’s engaging narration makes it a unique, lively experience in London.