How to Plan Your Booze, Brothels & The Bard Walking Tour in London

London is a city steeped in history, culture, and plenty of scandal. If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the city, then the Booze, Brothels & The Bard Walking Tour is the perfect choice. Led by a knowledgeable guide from Historic London Tours, this intimate small-group tour is packed with fascinating insights and hidden gems that will make you see the city in a whole new light.

Overview

This walking tour explores the colorful past of two of London’s most vibrant districts – Borough and Bankside. During the approximately 2-mile (3.2km) tour, you’ll see iconic sites like Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and Winchester Palace, as well as discover unique places like a haunted pub, a former medieval brothel, and a notorious prison. You’ll also learn about the lives of celebrated artists like William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens as you stroll around the historic area.

What to Expect

The tour starts outside the exit of Borough Station, where your guide from Historic London Tours will be waiting for you with a sign. From there, you’ll head to the bustling Borough Market, one of London’s largest and oldest food markets. Your guide will give you insights into the market’s colorful history, as well as point out some of the best stalls to grab a bite to eat.

Next, you’ll walk along the River Thames, passing iconic landmarks like London Bridge, before arriving at the world-famous Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Here, you’ll learn about the life and times of William Shakespeare, as well as the history of the theatre itself.

The tour continues on to Winchester Palace, an imposing ruin tucked away in Southwark. This was once the residence of the powerful Bishops of Winchester, and your guide will tell you about the palace’s fascinating history.

As you make your way through Bankside, your guide will tell you about the colorful characters who once called this area home – including writers, artists, and notorious criminals. You’ll learn about Charles Dickens and his connection to the area, as well as visit the site of a former medieval brothel and a notorious prison.

Finally, the tour ends at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, where you can take some time to explore the museum or just soak up the atmosphere of this iconic London landmark.

What’s Included

This personalized small-group tour has a maximum of 15 people, ensuring that you get plenty of attention from your guide. The tour also includes a knowledgeable walking tour guide and all gratuities.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Borough High St, London SE1 1JX UK – specifically, outside the exit of Borough Station. Your guide will be waiting for you here, holding a Historic London Tours sign.

Start Time

The Booze, Brothels & The Bard Walking Tour starts at 11:00 AM.

End Point

The tour ends outside Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, located at 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT UK.

Book the Tour Here

If you’re intrigued by the idea of this fascinating walking tour, then you can book the Booze, Brothels & The Bard Walking Tour online at Viator via this link. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover a different side to London – book your spot on this walking tour today!

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About London: Answered!

London is one of the most visited cities in the world, with cultural and historical landmarks that attract millions of people every year. With so much to see and do, it’s no surprise that tourists have many questions before arriving in London. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about London, so you can be prepared for your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit London?

London is a great city to visit all year round, but the best time to visit is from March to May when the weather is mild, and the city is not too crowded. The summer months of June to August are peak tourist season, with many festivals and events happening, but it can be very busy and expensive. Winters are cold and rainy, but the city is lit up by festive lights, and you can enjoy ice skating and other winter activities.

2. How do I get around London?

London has an extensive public transportation system that includes the Tube (underground), buses, and trains. The Oyster Card is the most convenient and cost-effective way to pay for public transport. It’s a smart card that you can top up with money, and it can be used on all public transport in London. Taxis and Uber are also available, but they can be expensive, especially during peak times.

3. What are some must-see attractions in London?

London has many iconic landmarks that attract millions of tourists every year. Some of the must-see attractions include:

– The Tower of London
– Westminster Abbey
– The London Eye
– Buckingham Palace
– St. Paul’s Cathedral
– The British Museum
– The National Gallery

4. What is the local currency in London, and can I use credit cards?

The local currency in London is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in London, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash as some places might have a minimum spend for card payments. ATMs are widely available, and currency exchange offices can be found in major tourist areas.

5. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of in London?

London is a diverse city, and cultural customs may vary. However, some general customs to keep in mind include:

– Tipping: In restaurants and bars, it’s customary to leave a 10-15% tip if the service was good.
– Queuing: Brits are known for their love of queuing, so be prepared to line up politely and wait your turn.
– Punctuality: Timekeeping is important in London, and being late for appointments or meetings is considered rude.

6. What is the weather like in London?

London has a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in winter (December-February) is 6°C (42.8°F), and in summer (June-August) is 18°C (64.4°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so it’s always a good idea to carry an umbrella.

7. What are some good places to eat in London?

London is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines available. Some popular places to eat include:

– Borough Market: This famous food market offers a variety of fresh and delicious food and drink.
– Dishoom: A popular Indian restaurant with a Bombay cafe-style menu.
– The Wolseley: A stylish restaurant in Piccadilly serving classic European dishes.
– Hawksmoor: A steakhouse renowned for its delicious steaks and cocktails.

8. How do I stay safe in London?

Like any big city, London can have its share of crime. However, it’s generally safe, and by taking some common-sense precautions, you can prevent any mishaps. Some tips to stay safe include:

– Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
– Keep your belongings close to you in busy tourist areas.
– Take licensed taxis or use reputable ride-sharing services.
– Avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night.

9. What is the voltage and plug type in London?

The voltage in London is 230V, and the plug type is the three-pin UK plug. If you’re visiting from countries with different voltage or plug types, make sure to bring a travel adapter.

10. What is the local time zone in London?

London is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) zone. During daylight savings time (from March to October), London is in British Summer Time (BST), which is one hour ahead of GMT.

Conclusion

Visiting London can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can make the most of your trip to London. Remember to plan your itinerary, book your accommodation in advance, and be respectful of local customs, and you’re sure to have a great time in this beautiful city.