Smithfield Uncovered: Rebels and Retribution

Smithfield is one of London’s most fascinating areas, rich with history, dramatic stories, and remarkable architecture. The neighborhood is home to some of the city’s oldest institutions, including its oldest parish church and hospital, and has long been a site of conflict, violence, and rebellion. Over the centuries, many rebels have challenged those in power in Smithfield, often meeting a grim fate, leaving behind a legacy of resistance and intrigue. Walking through this historic district, visitors can uncover the layers of its past, from medieval times to more recent events, revealing a neighborhood shaped by struggle, resilience, and remarkable human stories.

On this tour, we will follow in the footsteps of queens, revolutionaries, monks, murderers, and merry-makers. Highlights include a notorious execution site, a Black Death burial ground, surviving World War One shrapnel damage, and a Tudor architectural gem. If open, the tour may also include a visit inside the historic St Bartholomew the Great church, providing further insight into Smithfield’s enduring significance. For those unable to attend on scheduled dates or preferring to explore independently, a self-guided option is available through a downloadable Google map featuring over 300 historic locations highlighted on the blog and Instagram. Additional blog posts and Instagram reels provide context, stories, and hidden insights, ensuring a thorough and engaging experience of this captivating part of London.