Have you ever wondered why this area is called Bermondsey and Old Southwark? Bermondsey and Old Southwark is a place with a story dating back to the Middle Ages. It encompasses parts of Southwark, Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, and even touches upon Walworth. You are standing near the historic borough of Southwark, famous for its cathedral, the Globe Theatre, and Borough Market. The Shard London Bridge, a stunning skyscraper stands tall just across the River Thames.
The area has seen massive industrial development throughout history, primarily around the River Thames. The warehouses and docks, which were once bustling with activity, have now been converted into housing and office spaces. You might see some original buildings in the mix, but these areas have been entirely remade.
The area wasn’t always this sophisticated. During the Industrial Revolution, the area was notorious for its slums and poverty. Dickens himself described Jacob’s Island, near St Saviour’s Dock, as a place of “filth and squalor”. There is even a legend that Bill Sikes, the villain from Oliver Twist, met his end in the mud of a nearby ditch.
This spot is full of historical significance. Just imagine yourself centuries ago, walking through these streets, or even in the 19th century, witnessing the throngs of people and the smoke from nearby factories. This district is full of life and ever-changing, and you never know what you might uncover walking its streets!