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Undercurrent: Wandering the Walbrook
August 3 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
An intriguing walk from Moorgate to Old Street exploring the lost river Walbrook and other watery undercurrents, from the medieval to today.
I am leading this walk on behalf of Islington Museum – who are currently running an exhibition about lost waterways – and Clerkenwell & Islington Guides. It’s a fascinating route from Moorgate to Old Street, uncovering the secrets of the lost River Walbrook and the watery history still shaping the city today.
Though one of London’s smallest lost rivers, the Walbrook once meandered through Finsbury and St Luke’s before flowing into the Thames. Dammed by the Roman city wall, it flooded the area to form the marshy Moorfields. Today, it runs silently beneath our feet – diverted into sewers – but its presence still leaves ripples across the modern landscape.
Along the way, you’ll hear stories of medieval wells, a Georgian swimming pool, Victorian innovations in sanitation, a church slowly sinking into soggy ground and more. It’s a journey through time, tracing how water shaped the lives, buildings, and streets of this corner of London.
This event is free as part of a series events supporting the Undercurrents exhibition at Islington Museum. There is an additional date on Wednesday 13th August at 11am led by my colleague Sue. Numbers are limited and pre-booking is essential – click to pre-book for either date.
