Regular readers of my humble efforts will know that I do like London and its history. I heard that there was going to be a talk in an historic London area, so I signed up and looked forward to it with some enthusiasm.
Last Sunday, the author and London guide, Jack Chesher, graced Tower Hamlets Town Hall with his presence. Armed with a wealth of knowledge about London and possessing a great sense of humour, he spent an hour captivating the audience as part of the ‘Writeidea Festival.’
Jack kicked off by introducing his two books: ‘A Guide for Curious Wanderers’ and ‘The Hidden Corners for Curious Wanderers.’ He announced that he would happily sign any copies people had brought along or those they could buy on the spot. In a lovely touch, he mentioned that the illustrator of his books was a longtime friend from his school days.
As a fan of his books for some time, I can attest to Jack’s ability to retell the history of various locations and buildings in a way that is both engaging and informative. His talk was no exception. He regaled us with amusing anecdotes from his adventures as a London guide, and before we knew it, we were whisked away on a virtual tour of some choice locations. The hour flew by.
As the talk drew to a close, the floor was opened for questions. One query that piqued my interest was about which London location Jack would choose to live in if money were no object. After some thoughtful consideration, he revealed two contenders: Spitalfields and Clerkenwell. While both are lovely choices, I must admit they’re not quite my cup of tea. (I am just glad he didn’t mention where I live as I would hate it to become popular if you know what I mean).
The talk, as already mentioned, was at Tower Hamlet Town Hall. The building incorporates the façade of the old Royal London Hospital. It was here that John Merrick, known as the ‘Elephant Man’ was admitted in the 1880’s. In the 1890’s Edith Cavell, pioneer of modern nursing worked.
Whitechapel Road! A place where history and modernity collide like two overzealous drug addicts fighting over a bag of chips. (Yes, this really did happen, and I witnessed this strange event unfolding as I made my way to the event)! As I walked past them, with them launching some course language at each other, I started to question my life choices of wearing a Donegal tweed blazer, lambswool jumper, pink shirt and tan county brogues! I was however glad that I went with Mrs Orange therefore didn't take one of my Brompton bicycles with me.
Once the haunt of the infamous Jack the Ripper, in its heyday, Whitechapel was the epitome of Victorian London, with its cobbled streets echoing the footsteps of countless characters, both shady and respectable. Today, it’s a lively mix of markets, curry houses, and the odd hipster café, proving that even the darkest past can have a bright future.
One day, I will try and book myself and Mrs Orange on one of his walking tours. They are very popular and are sold out very quickly. In the meantime, I will keep reading his books and blog. They occasionally provide some interesting locations to cycle to and investigate further on one of my Brompton bicycles.
Until next time, stay safe out there people!
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