I recently took two separate trips to London. Over the course of many years, I have done the traditional sightseeing spots that the capital has to offer. However, in more recent years I found that I've embraced the dark side. If you've read my about me, you'll know that this isn't new. I've simply hidden it up until now.
London has a huge history with a legacy dating back to just short of 2,000 years. Many of this is seeped within the walls, and that gives local historians plenty of stories to tell. On this trip, I decided to indulge into that stories that really made London. Here's what I got up to.
The Huntarian Museum
Named after renowned surgeon, John Hunter. This museum uncovers many of his works. On display you can find lots of surgical phenomenon's, from humans (of all ages) to animals (of all ages) and everything in-between (aka apparatus).
The museum is run by the Royal College of Surgeons, and it is in a very ornate old building - kind of like Buckingham Palace, but also not. The buildings that surround are also very medical. It is also adjacent to the Charles Dickens Museum - sadly we didn't visit here, but it's on the list for next time.
Old Operating Theatre
London is home to many wonderful things - one of them being the Oldest Operating Theatre in the UK. It is located in the attic of a building, with the access point being a very narrow winding staircase. Looking back - they never told you of another entrance, and it does make you wonder how the patients made their way up. I can't imagine they had an equally wonderful hoisting contraption back in the day... but I could be wrong.
If this place was free to visit, I would definitely go back, and if I lived in London, I'd be open to getting a job here... if it has another access point.
Whitechapel
On the evening of Saturday the 5th April, myself and my mum were lead around London by a gentleman called Mick Priestley who took us on a very insightful tour of Whitechapel, and the surrounding areas, as he took us in Jack the Ripper's footprints.
If you've followed my Instagram for a while, you'll know that a few years ago I did a heavy bit of research on the Yorkshire Ripper. This case was very close to home, with my friend's mum being their neighbour and former friend. However, as much as I've tried, this case is far too complex to wrap my head around. So, it was a fantastic experience to simply let someone else tell the story for me!
The Grave of Joseph Grimaldi
We all know that I've visited Highgate before, so it hasn't made it onto this list. Although, you could add it as a bonus spot if you like!
Located in Islington is a quaint little graveyard located in the surrounding the grounds of The Royal National Institute of Blind People.
Joseph Grimaldi is known for being the founding father of the clown industry. Truth be told, this isn't an industry that I know very well at all!
Despite the gloomy sound of his surname, 'Grim'aldi, Joseph Grimaldi became the most beloved comic performer of Georgian England. Born in London in 1778 to an Italian theatrical family, he made his stage debut as a child and went on to revolutionise pantomime at Sadler’s Wells and Covent Garden.
Joseph died at the age of 59 in 1837 after many years of ill health, likely caused by the intense physical demands of his performances.
Clink Prison Museum
In the museum, you'll find lots of educational sources - it's also a great place for curious children!
Cross Bones Graveyard
London's 'Cross Bones' Graveyard is located in Southwark and is the burial site of the local Sex Workers and the poor people of London. Although, I don't believe it is an active burial ground anymore.
This one is still on my bucket list. I'll be visiting London next month, but I'll be arriving on a Friday, so I'm not sure if I'll be able to pay my respects. The reason I say this is because it's open Wednesday to Friday, from 12 - 2pm!
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