Private Historical Pubs and Rebels Tour

Highlights

  • Learn about the area’s gruesome history

  • Put yourself in the shoes of Dickens and Sherlock Holmes

  • Learn about the role of traditional watering holes

  • Enjoy a pint of local brew at the oldest drinking holes

  • Our team will match the perfect guide to entertain all ages

Summary

Explore the bloodcurdling history of Smithfield as you tour some of London’s oldest pubs

Tour info

Duration
3 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
English
Meeting Point

The Castle Farringdon, 34-35 Cowcross St, London, England, EC1M 6DB

123 Main St, Main St, Kings County, New York, 11217, United States

Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Explore the dark and chequered history of Smithfield, home to **London’s central meat market**.

* Learn about the area’s gruesome history and enjoy a pint of local brew at the **oldest drinking holes** around. 
* Put yourself in the shoes of **Dickens** and **Sherlock Holmes** with a wander around the grounds of the historic **St Barts**, the oldest hospital in Europe. 
* Uncover the most unlikely stories of one of London’s most influential areas with your expert guide. 
* Learn about the role of traditional watering holes in the area’s history and take the chance to cultivate your palate: from stout, to cider, to traditional British ales.

**Exploring London’s Bloody Past**

Looking to quench your thirst whilst taking in London’s bloody past. In this fantastic pub tour you will have the pleasure of visiting some of the most historic drinking spots in the City of London. Enjoy some excellent locally-brewed craft beer whilst exploring the dark and chequered history of the Smithfield area. The central meat market for London, Smithfields has been in continuous operation for more than 800 years. Undoubtedly the most gruesome location in the capital, this ancient marketplace has long been a site of gory traditions: from the cattle that were slaughtered in its streets to the presence of countless heretic witches, public executions (of the likes of William "Braveheart" Wallace) and the slaying of Wat Tyler during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381\. Murder and mystery define the district, which is often referenced by London’s literary legends – the nearby St Bartholomew, more commonly known as St. Barts, is where Sherlock Holmes first meets Dr. Watson. Once described by Dickens in Oliver Twist as “the armpit of London, where animal excrement and entrails created a sea of filth”, today Smithfield thankfully operates in beautiful ornate Victorian halls - no entrails in sight!

**Hidden Smithfield** 
As you venture through these labyrinthine streets with your expert local guide, you will be going off the beaten track, journeying back in time as you explore some of Smithfield’s’ most interesting pubs and breweries. One establishment you might venture into, The Hand and Shears, dates as far back as the Middle Ages – the Lord Mayor used to open the famed St.Bartholomew's fair from outside its doors. As you make yourself at home in these traditional watering holes, your guide will regale you with tales of the city.

What’s included?

  • Two large beers or house wines during the course of the tour

  • A friendly, professional tour guide for your own private group

  • Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places

  • Addiotional food and drink, although your guide will be happy to recommend snacks along the way

  • Cost of hotel pick up/drop off. Your guide will accompany you in a taxi or by public transport

Things to know

Before you book

  • Please bring comfortable walking shoes

  • Should you require a specific pick up location, additional fees may apply and are payable locally

  • Kids under 4 are free

Before you go

  • Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes prior to the tour start time

  • Please bring waterproof clothing in case it rains

Covid Policy

  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
  • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands

Cancellation Policy

    Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

About operator:

Travel Curious, based in Shoreditch/London, researches, creates and owns immersive, cultural tours and experiences in cities throughout the world. We provide our tours and experiences as a service to the travel industry and are privileged to name some of the biggest global brands as our partners