Did you know that the London Borough of Southwark’s story stretches back to Roman times? It began as a crucial spot because the Romans built a bridge across the Thames here in 43 CE.
Southwark’s location made it a vital hub. Roads converged here creating a key point for entering London. Over time, Southwark transformed from a market town in early Saxon days. It became a place of inns, theatres and even less savoury spots.
Think of Geoffrey Chaucer’s pilgrims. They set off for Canterbury from the Tabard Inn located on Borough High Street. Imagine Shakespeare’s plays. Many were first performed at the Globe Theatre in Bankside. A reconstruction of the Globe stands near the original site today. The George built in 1676 is London’s last galleried inn.
After the Reformation St Mary Overie Priory turned into Southwark’s parish church. Later in 1905, it became Southwark Cathedral. Nearby, Guy’s Hospital opened in 1726. It became a major teaching hospital. St Mary Magdalen Church in Bermondsey dates back to the late 16th century.
Southwark gave rise to some interesting phrases. “The state of bedlam” comes from the Hospital of St Mary of Bethlehem. It was founded in 1247 for the mentally ill. “To be in the clink” comes from the Clink Street prison. Charles Dickens’ family spent time in Marshalsea prison. His character Little Dorrit was born there and married in St George the Martyr Church.
Dickens had many connections to Southwark. Eckett Street in Jacob’s Island was the home of Bill Sikes in Oliver Twist. Other famous Southwark residents include Charles Babbage Mary Wollstonecraft and Michael Caine.
Southwark has many educational and cultural spots. There is Dulwich College Dulwich Picture Gallery and Tate Modern. You can find HMS Belfast and a Golden Hinde reconstruction along the riverfront. Southwark is where the Mayflower began its journey to the New World.
Much of Southwark’s architecture is post-World War II. However, some Victorian buildings remain. London Bridge City is a development along the riverfront. Newer buildings include Peckham Library City Hall and the Shard.
Southwark connects to Tower Hamlets via the Rotherhithe Tunnel and Tower Bridge. The Elephant and Castle is a major crossroads for several bridges. The most recent London Bridge was built in 1973 replacing one that was sold to Lake Havasu City Arizona. The Millennium Bridge links Southwark to the City of London.
Southwark has a history of welcoming different cultures. Flemish weavers Dutch pottery makers and Irish labourers all made their home here. More recently people from Africa the Caribbean and Turkey have arrived.
Today ethnic minorities make up a third of Southwark’s population. This borough covers 11 square miles and is home to over 288000 people. Southwark is a place of constant change, with a rich past and a vibrant present.