Imagine weary travelers seeking respite on the Thames’s edge. This is the story of The Ferryman’s Seat. It’s more than just a stone slab. The Ferryman’s Seat is a relic from a time before bridges dominated London’s skyline.
Before 1750 London Bridge was the only way to cross the Thames. Ferrymen were essential for transport. They were called “Wherrymen”. Their water taxis were “wherries”. The Ferryman’s Seat provided a resting spot for these hardworking individuals. They waited for passengers.
The Ferryman’s Seat we see today is on Bankside. It is near Shakespeare’s Globe. This is the last of its kind. Similar seats once dotted the South Bank. They served as early cab ranks. This one survives.
The Ferryman’s Seat is made of flint. Its age is debated. Some believe it dates back to the 12th or 13th century. The plaque on The Ferryman’s Seat explains its purpose. It says it was for the convenience of Bankside watermen. They ferried people across the river.
Consider the scene back then. The south side of the Thames had a wild reputation. It was known for brothels and theaters. This area was a bit lawless. The seat stands on Bear Gardens. This street is named after the Davies Amphitheatre. It was London’s last bear-baiting pit.
Notable figures likely used these ferry services. Imagine William Shakespeare or Samuel Pepys. They might have hailed a wherry. They would have relied on the ferrymen.
The Ferryman’s Seat might seem unremarkable. It is just a chunk of stone. But The Ferryman’s Seat represents a vital part of London’s past. It reminds us of the river’s importance. It highlights the lives of the ferrymen. These men connected the city before bridges took over.
Next time you pass The Ferryman’s Seat consider its history. Think of the watermen waiting for their fares. Remember the bustling river traffic. Appreciate this small piece of London’s rich past.