The "Harlots and Strumpets and Tarts Theatrical Walking Tour" invites visitors to step back in time and explore the seedy underbelly of 18th-century London’s sex trade. Guided by costumed actors, the immersive experience delves into the hidden alleyways and discreet establishments frequented by the city’s elite, shedding light on the narratives of high-class courtesans and streetwalkers whose stories are often overlooked. From dramatic re-enactments to vivid historical details, this captivating tour promises to transport guests to a world where societal attitudes and the plight of those struggling to survive collide in a way that challenges our modern-day perceptions.
Key Points
- A theatrical walking tour that explores the stories of 18th century London’s sex workers, including harlots, strumpets, and tarts.
- Tour guide and actors in costume bring these historical narratives to life through drama and comedy.
- Tour takes visitors on a journey through the streets of Covent Garden and Charing Cross, showcasing locations linked to the infamous sex trade.
- Visitors can hear the firsthand accounts of high-class courtesans and street walkers, uncovering their plight and societal attitudes of the time.
- The tour provides a unique and informative experience, shedding light on a often overlooked aspect of London’s past.
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Tour Overview
This theatrical walking tour takes visitors on a journey through 18th century London’s thriving sex trade, bringing the stories of harlots, strumpets, and tarts to life through drama and comedy.
A costumed tour guide and actors guide guests through the historic streets of Covent Garden and towards Charing Cross Station, sharing tales of the women who worked in this notorious industry.
Participants will meet high-class courtesans and streetwalkers, learning about their experiences and the societal attitudes of the time.
The tour highlights how these women’s stories are often overlooked, giving them a voice through this unique theatrical experience.
Itinerary
The tour starts at Covent Garden tube station, where visitors embark on a guided exploration through the historic neighborhood. Guests will spend the first hour following the tour guide through the streets of Covent Garden, learning about the area’s connections to the 18th century sex trade. After this, the group will continue their journey towards Charing Cross Station, encountering more locations and stories related to the thriving sex industry of the time. The tour culminates at the Nell Gwynne Tavern, providing an opportunity for an optional stop at this historic pub.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Covent Garden Guided Tour | 1 hour |
| Walk towards Charing Cross Station | 1 hour |
| End at Nell Gwynne Tavern | – |
Tour Highlights
Visiting locations linked to the 18th century sex trade in London’s West End forms a key part of the tour. Guests will meet the women who worked in the sex industry, from high-class courtesans to street walkers, and hear the stories of these often unheard voices.
The tour takes participants to sites associated with the vibrant yet scandalous underworld of the sex trade, bringing these historical narratives to life through the costumed actors and the guide’s engaging storytelling.
Whether it’s exploring the hidden alleyways and discreet establishments frequented by the city’s elite, or uncovering the plight of those struggling to survive on the streets, the tour offers a unique glimpse into this captivating and complex aspect of London’s past.
Inclusions
The guided historical walking tour includes costumed actors and a guide who bring the stories of 18th century London’s sex trade to life through drama and comedy.
Guests will visit locations linked to this infamous industry in the West End, meeting the women who worked as high-class courtesans and street walkers. Visitors will hear the stories of these women, whose voices are often not given the recognition they deserve.
The tour also includes an optional stop at a historic pub, though drinks aren’t included. With a duration of approximately 2 hours, the tour requires a minimum level of fitness to be on one’s feet continuously throughout the experience.
Important Information
Visitors should note the tour’s duration of approximately 2 hours, requiring a minimum level of fitness to be on one’s feet continuously throughout the experience. Photography is allowed, but filming is prohibited. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or children under 18.
The important details at a glance:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Approx. 2 hours |
| Fitness Level | Minimum required |
| Photography | Allowed |
| Filming | Prohibited |
| Accessibility | Not suitable for mobility impaired, wheelchair users, or children under 18 |
This theatrical walking tour through 18th-century London’s sex trade promises a captivating and informative experience for those who meet the tour’s requirements.
Getting to Covent Garden
Conveniently, the tour begins at the Covent Garden tube station, situated in the heart of London’s West End.
From here, the guided exploration of the area’s 18th-century sex trade commences. Attendees will find the station’s iconic piazza and market just a short walk away, setting the stage for the immersive journey into London’s past.
The central location allows easy access, as the tour winds through the neighborhood’s historic streets and alleyways. Guests can anticipate an engaging introduction to the district’s rich history before delving deeper into the world of harlots, strumpets, and tarts that once thrived in this bustling part of the city.
Guided Tour of Covent Garden
As the tour begins, the costumed guide leads participants through the bustling Covent Garden piazza, regaling them with captivating tales of the area’s notorious 18th-century sex trade.
The guide points out discreet doorways and hidden alleyways, once home to brothels and bawdy houses.
Dramatic re-enactments by costumed actors bring to life the stories of high-class courtesans, street walkers, and infamous madams who once plied their trade in the district.
Listeners are transported back in time, picturing the colorful characters and scandalous happenings that once defined this vibrant part of London.
The tour winds through the charming cobblestone streets, offering a unique glimpse into the seedy underbelly of the city’s past while maintaining an informative and tasteful tone.
Exploring Charing Cross Station
From Covent Garden, the tour makes its way towards Charing Cross Station, where the guide points out the former sites of notorious brothels and bawdy houses that once thrived in the area.
The guide regales the group with tales of the ‘ladies of the night‘ who prowled the streets, plying their trade in the shadows of the imposing railway terminus.
Visitors learn about the elaborate system of codes and signals used by the sex workers to attract clients, as well as the harsh realities of their daily lives.
The tour pauses at a particularly infamous hotel, now long gone, where the group can almost feel the ghosts of those who sought pleasure and escape within its walls.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Religious Sensitivities?
The tour’s subject matter may not be suitable for those with religious sensitivities, as it delves into the historical sex trade. Those seeking a more reverent experience may find another tour better aligned with their preferences.
Can the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Nearby Restaurants?
The tour guide can provide recommendations for nearby restaurants, as the tour takes place in the vibrant Covent Garden area, known for its diverse dining options. However, the recommendations would not be part of the tour itself.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour company offers discounted tickets for seniors and students. They can save a few pounds on the standard tour price by presenting valid ID when purchasing tickets. Discounted rates are subject to availability.
Is the Pub Stop Included in the Tour Price?
The pub stop is not included in the tour price. The tour itinerary indicates it’s an optional activity, and the cost of any drinks at the historic pub is not covered by the tour fee.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Larger Private Groups?
Yes, the tour can be customized for larger private groups. The tour company offers private tour options that allow for group sizes, itinerary, and duration to be tailored to the group’s needs and interests.
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Recap
The ‘Harlots and Strumpets and Tarts Theatrical Walking Tour’ offers a captivating journey through London’s 18th-century sex trade.
Guided by costumed actors, visitors explore the hidden alleyways and discreet establishments that once catered to the city’s elite.
Through dramatic re-enactments, the tour sheds light on the societal attitudes and plight of the high-class courtesans and street walkers, whose narratives have often been overlooked.
