Jailbirds of Old London

"When a woman gives way to vice, she sinks far lower than a man..."

Ready for the 'anging?

London has a long, dark legacy of trial, punishment and execution. The stories and grisly ends of Jack Sheppard, Captain Kidd and many other male criminals of London lore are well known and documented.  But what about the women? Join us on a journey to discover four of the lesser-known female felons of London's past.

From the Old City of London to the bustling West End, allow your Guide, Miss Adeline Venture,  show you the places that crimes and executions took place in the 1800's and early 1900's, and introduce you to the women responsible for them!

You will hear stories and dramatic re-enactments** of...

• ...A 22 year old 'Criminal Mastermind'...
• ...A 'poisonous' domestic servant...
• ...A murderous foster carer...
• ...A cunning courtesan...

We will also examine how female criminals were perceived and treated during this period, the influence of class and race, and whether things have changed much today in the criminal justice system, and in society as a whole.

Walking Tour lasts 2-2.5 hours. Meet outside The Old Bailey Central Criminal Court and finish on The Strand near the Savoy Hotel. 

Please note - distances between stops can be up to 17 minutes of walking. There are no stops on this tour. It is your responsibility to make sure that you have reasonable fitness to take part.

**CONTENT TRIGGER WARNING - contains themes of murder, abuse, child abuse, violence and sex. We include dramatic reenactments of executions that may be triggering to some.**