London: Cloak & Dagger Walking Tour with Costumed Guide

Summary

Walk London’s shadowy past from Borough Market to the Clink

You’ll step straight into London’s murky history with a costumed local guide who brings old scandals and punishments alive around Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral, and the infamous Clink Prison Museum. Expect laughter, shivers, and maybe a pint at the George Inn as you trade stories with fellow travelers.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’d feel like to meet a ghost from London’s past? I didn’t, not really — but then we’re standing outside the George Inn and this figure in full old-time garb just appears. Our guide (he called himself Mr. Fenton, though I’m still not sure if that was his real name) had this way of talking that made you forget about your phone and start noticing things — like how the air near Borough Market carries both warm bread and something a bit sour underneath. He pointed out a spot where people used to dump waste right into the street. I laughed, but honestly, it made me look at my shoes.

We wound through narrow alleys behind Southwark Cathedral, where the stones felt cold even through my jacket. There was this moment when a woman in our group asked if the cathedral bells ever kept people up at night back then — Mr. Fenton just grinned and said, “You’d be lucky if bells were all you heard.” The stories got darker as we neared the Clink Prison Museum; he described punishments so vivid I swear I could almost smell smoke and damp straw. Someone tried to lighten the mood by asking about modern crime rates (classic tourist move), but he steered us right back to tales of thieves and cutpurses.

I didn’t expect to feel so much walking over London Bridge — you can see the city lights flicker off the Thames now, but our guide kept reminding us what used to float by in those waters. Not always pleasant stuff. By the time we circled back to the George Inn, I was half-expecting another character to pop out from behind a barrel. Instead, we got pints of ale (included in the tour), which tasted better than any history lesson I’ve had before. Still think about that first sip while everyone swapped their favorite gruesome detail from the walk…

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore London's dark historic sites

• Meet at George Inn entrance
• Discover George Inn history
• Explore riverside life near London Bridge
• Visit Borough Market history
• Learn about Southwark Cathedral mysteries
• Discover crime and punishment nearby
• Return to George Inn for ale

Top questions

Where does the Cloak & Dagger Tour in London start?

The tour starts at The George Inn Yard, 77 Borough High St, London SE1 1NH.

How long does the Cloak & Dagger Tour last?

The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is there a guide included on this London walking tour?

Yes, a local guide in full costume leads the experience.

What attractions are visited during this tour?

The route includes Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral area, Clink Prison Museum vicinity, London Bridge area, and returns to The George Inn.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The tour is not recommended for children aged 12 and under due to content.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed.

Does this tour include public transportation?

No transport is included but public transportation options are nearby.

Is lunch or food included on this tour?

No meals are included; however, you may enjoy ale at The George Inn after returning.

What’s included

Your evening includes a guided walk led by a costumed local expert who shares stories at each historic stop—plus time inside atmospheric spots like Borough Market and around Southwark Cathedral before finishing back at The George Inn for an ale with your group.