In the neighbourhood: Bishopsgate
As one of London’s most historical enclaves, it’s easy to overlook the modern attractions of Bishopsgate, City of London. Today, glass skyscrapers tower over ancient churches, while Old Spitalfields Market remains a commercial hub. Where the spectre of Jack the Ripper once haunted the streets, today’s late night vagabonds are more likely graffiti artists. There’s a wealth of activities to explore in the area, before taking respite within the glass oasis of the Bishopsgate Kitchen.
1. Ten Bells Pub
On the corner of Commercial Street and Fournier Street stands a pub known for its connections to perhaps the most notorious murderer ever. The Ten Bells Pub has been standing since at least 1752; the interior remains much the same as in the Victorian era. In 1976 the establishment became ‘The Jack the Ripper’, but the owners made the sensible decision to change it back to its original title in 1988. Inside you’ll find a famous tiled mosaic, depicting ‘Spitalfields in the Olden Time’, whilst, more macabrely, a sign opposite the bar lists Jack’s victims.
tenbells.com
2. Stone Bishop’s Mitre
London’s history often reveals itself if we look underground or upwards. The site of the old Gates of the City of London is marked today by a stone bishop's mitre (originally one of a pair), placed high on a building at the junction of Bishopsgate and Wormwood Street, facing Heron Tower. As one of the original Roman city gates, Bishopsgate followed the path of an old Roman road that went from Londinium to York.
3. Dennis Severs’ House, 18 Folgate Street
Number 18 Folgate Street is a breathtaking portrait of a family of Huguenot silk-weavers from 1724 to the dawn of the 20th century. It was the intention of the late Dennis Severs that as you enter his house, it would be as though passing through the surface of an 18th century painting. Visit Monday lunchtimes or on selected evenings throughout summer.
dennissevershouse.co.uk
4. Old Spitalfields Market
Today the 350-year-old Spitalfields Market brims with souvenirs and street food – a fitting purpose given its original license (awarded by King Charles in 1638) to sell “flesh, fowl and roots”. Designed by George Sherrin and built between 1885 and 1893, the original Victorian buildings have since been restored. Old Spitalfields is now a popular arts and crafts and food market, open all week.
oldspitalfieldsmarket.com
5. Alternative London Street Tour
The modern face of Spitalfields still retains an urban edge. On this tour, a street artist will guide you through East London to see some of the world's finest street art by Banksy, ROA, Jimmy C, Invader, Stik and more. Create your own piece of street art back at the Alternative London workshop and who knows, one day you might end up as another stop on the tour.
alternativeldn.co.uk
