Secret Islington and Clerkenwell

Secret Islington and Clerkenwell delves into this historic area’s often unknown but colourful past. It takes the reader on a fascinating journey from the time when these villages were rural communities up to the thriving, vibrant neighbourhoods they are today. You will discover what made the area initially so attractive to farmers and dairy maids, why so many monastic communities settled here in the Middle Ages, and how a 17th century waterway supplying water to Londoners was not only built in the district but is still providing water to the capital today. The book highlights the role that great revolutionary figures such as Wat Tyler, Lenin, Mazzini and Garibaldi have played in Clerkenwell as well as the contribution made by its very many immigrants, especially the Huguenots, Italian and Irish. You will discover how in the late 1800s extreme poverty and squalid living in unsanitary rookeries led to great criminal activity and how benevolent philanthropists stepped in to provide the local population with improved facilities and social housing. With tales of remarkable characters, unusual events and tucked away or disappeared historical buildings and locations, Secret Clerkenwell and Islington will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of these areas of London.

Lucy McMurdo is the author of Bloomsbury in 50 Buildings, Explore London’s Square Mile, Streets of London, London in 7 Days, Chiswick in 50 Buildings, Islington & Clerkenwell in 50 Buildings, Hampstead & Highgate in 50 Buildings and City of London in 50 Buildings. A history graduate and London Blue Badge Tourist Guide she spends many hours exploring the city and researching its hidden stories. Her career in the tourism industry has involved her in the training and examining of guides in several London universities and at Hampton Court Palace.