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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241020T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241020T163000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240930T141122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240930T141131Z
UID:10000105-1729434600-1729441800@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:King's Cross to Hitchcock's Hackney
DESCRIPTION:We start this walk where some scenes from Hitchcock’s classic film ‘The 39 Steps’ were filmed and end at the studios where he first made his name. Along the way we pass through the ever changing and vibrant King’s Cross redevelopment\, join the Regent’s Canal then glimpse the ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ as the canal passes under central Islington. We explore a historic street market and cross the route of an even earlier waterway\, then rejoin the towpath to walk east. Unfolding canal scenes of locks\, basins and restored industrial buildings end at Gainsborough Studios in Hackney. \n\n\n\nI lead this walk on a voluntary basis in support of the Inland Waterways Association. Please book online  and I will take payment on the day (cash or card) to pass to them.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/kings-cross-to-hitchcocks-hackney-2
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hitchcock-Head-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241023T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241023T153000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240124T111437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250105T171855Z
UID:10000098-1729692000-1729697400@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Canonbury Tower Tour
DESCRIPTION:Canonbury Tower near Canonbury Square is a survivor of Islington’s Tudor and even earlier history. It was built in the late 16th century as an addition to an earlier manor house\, features beautiful wood panelling in some rooms\, was home to several notable people including Francis Bacon and Oliver Goldsmith\, and offers a fantastic view from the roof. Courtesy of the seventh Marquess of Northampton\, Islington Guides are now offering two tours each month\, strictly limited to 10 guests. \n\n\n\nBooking link here: https://canonburytower.eventbrite.co.uk \n\n\n\nSelect 14th March for my tour in the drop down – other dates will be led by equally knowledgeable and charming Islington Guides!
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/canonbury-tower-tour-6/2024-10-23
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_3133-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241027T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241027T131500
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240930T140121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240930T140156Z
UID:10000111-1730026800-1730034900@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:A watery wander around the Angel Islington
DESCRIPTION:A circular walk from Angel tube\, exploring the influences of water sources. Islington and Clerkenwell developed around a hilly area with an abundance of water from natural springs\, wells and the River Fleet\, all now more or less hidden. The New River – an astonishing early 17C waterworks scheme with engineering and reservoirs – and the early 19C manmade Regent’s Canal and basins followed. Meanwhile\, some of the springs had been turned into risqué pleasure gardens and a famous theatre\, then the residential boom of Georgian and Victorian squares and streets sprung up. \n\n\n\nThis walk traces all things watery\, tells of an eccentric estate owner\, an evangelical Countess and a lost cricket ground. \n\n\n\nThe walk lasts 2 to 2 1/4 hours\, starts at the Angel station and ends in a historic market near the start. \n\n\n\nPre-book only via Eventbrite here
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/a-watery-wander-around-the-angel-islington-3
LOCATION:Angel Station\, Islington High Street\, London\, N1 8XX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_1006-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241103T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241103T131500
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240930T141440Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241016T161304Z
UID:10000115-1730631600-1730639700@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:A watery wander around King's Cross and St. Pancras
DESCRIPTION:An almost-circular walk around King’s Cross and St. Pancras stations and the extraordinary\, vibrant redevelopment of what was a semi-derelict wasteland of railway lands. The area originally had a plentiful supply of water from the now-hidden River Fleet and associated lost springs and wells\, then the man-made Regent’s Canal supplied more water from the early 1800s.This walk explores how all things watery have influenced the development of the area\, from lost pleasure gardens and an ancient church by a riverbank\, to canal locks\, steam engines and gas storage holders\, then today’s inspiring water features and a tranquil nature reserve. \n\n\n\nThis walk starts outside King’s Cross Station\, lasts 2 – 2 1/4 hours and ends near St. Pancras Station. Pre-book only via Eventbrite\, click here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/a-watery-wander-around-kings-cross-and-st-pancras-3
LOCATION:Kings Cross station\, Euston Road\, London\, N1 9AL
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Somers-bridge-water-tower-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241106T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241106T131500
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240930T140328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240930T140409Z
UID:10000113-1730890800-1730898900@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:A watery wander around the Angel Islington
DESCRIPTION:A circular walk from Angel tube\, exploring the influences of water sources. Islington and Clerkenwell developed around a hilly area with an abundance of water from natural springs\, wells and the River Fleet\, all now more or less hidden. The New River – an astonishing early 17C waterworks scheme with engineering and reservoirs – and the early 19C manmade Regent’s Canal and basins followed. Meanwhile\, some of the springs had been turned into risqué pleasure gardens and a famous theatre\, then the residential boom of Georgian and Victorian squares and streets sprung up. \n\n\n\nThis walk traces all things watery\, tells of an eccentric estate owner\, an evangelical Countess and a lost cricket ground. \n\n\n\nThe walk lasts 2 to 2 1/4 hours\, starts at the Angel station and ends in a historic market near the start. \n\n\n\nPre-book only via Eventbrite here
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/a-watery-wander-around-the-angel-islington-4
LOCATION:Angel Station\, Islington High Street\, London\, N1 8XX\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_1006-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241230T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241230T163000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240930T141227Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240930T141236Z
UID:10000107-1735569000-1735576200@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:King's Cross to Hitchcock's Hackney
DESCRIPTION:We start this walk where some scenes from Hitchcock’s classic film ‘The 39 Steps’ were filmed and end at the studios where he first made his name. Along the way we pass through the ever changing and vibrant King’s Cross redevelopment\, join the Regent’s Canal then glimpse the ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ as the canal passes under central Islington. We explore a historic street market and cross the route of an even earlier waterway\, then rejoin the towpath to walk east. Unfolding canal scenes of locks\, basins and restored industrial buildings end at Gainsborough Studios in Hackney. \n\n\n\nI lead this walk on a voluntary basis in support of the Inland Waterways Association. Please book online  and I will take payment on the day (cash or card) to pass to them.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/kings-cross-to-hitchcocks-hackney-4
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Hitchcock-Head-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250314T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250314T123000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240124T111437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250105T171855Z
UID:10000120-1741950000-1741955400@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Canonbury Tower Tour
DESCRIPTION:Canonbury Tower near Canonbury Square is a survivor of Islington’s Tudor and even earlier history. It was built in the late 16th century as an addition to an earlier manor house\, features beautiful wood panelling in some rooms\, was home to several notable people including Francis Bacon and Oliver Goldsmith\, and offers a fantastic view from the roof. Courtesy of the seventh Marquess of Northampton\, Islington Guides are now offering two tours each month\, strictly limited to 10 guests. \n\n\n\nBooking link here: https://canonburytower.eventbrite.co.uk \n\n\n\nSelect 14th March for my tour in the drop down – other dates will be led by equally knowledgeable and charming Islington Guides!
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/canonbury-tower-tour-6/2025-03-14
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_3133-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250420T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250420T163000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250115T171125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T171126Z
UID:10000124-1745159400-1745166600@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Regent’s Canal – King’s Cross\, Granary Square\, St. Pancras
DESCRIPTION:A wander around the Regent’s Canal as it ambles through the stunning new developments around King’s Cross and St Pancras stations. We’ll explore the amazing architecture from the 1850s onwards as the age of steam trains ushered in the construction of this vast interchange between road\, rail and water transport. Hear about grain stores\, coal drops\, gas generation\, canal boats\, basins and locks\, and the many horses who laboured along with people. The walk starts near King’s Cross station and ends near St Pancras station\, so the route is almost circular and easy to access. \n\n\n\nI lead this walk on a voluntary basis in support of the Inland Waterways Association. Please book online and I will take payment on the day (cash or card) to pass to them.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/regents-canal-kings-cross-granary-square-st-pancras
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_4081-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250504T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250504T123000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250307T094642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250307T094644Z
UID:10000130-1746356400-1746361800@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Historic Hoxton
DESCRIPTION:Hoxton and Shoreditch today are often known as fashionable parts of east London\, areas to eat out in and go clubbing. It’s also an area of astonishing contrasts from post war estates and a park reclaimed from bombed houses\, through to surviving elegant 18C houses\, almshouses\, a radical 19C reforming local authority and road layouts dating back to the Romans. \n\n\n\nThe Gunpowder Plot was unmasked here in 1605\, an enterprising gardener successfully created the first plant hybrids in 1729\, and the first woman Mayor of Shoreditch was elected in 1936. \n\n\n\nThis walk is part of the exciting Hackney History Festival in early May https://hackneyhistoryfestival.org – do browse for a fabulous programme of talks\, walks and tours.  \n\n\n\nBooking is absolutely essential and numbers are limited for your enjoyment and safety https://www.tickettailor.com/events/hackneyhistoryfestival/1589843 \n\n\n\nThe walk will start at Hoxton Station\, last around 90 minutes and end in Hoxton Street.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/historic-hoxton-4
LOCATION:Hoxton Overground Station\, Geffrye Street\, London\, E2 8FF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Shoreditch-refuse-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250510T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250518T235959
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250401T142807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T142840Z
UID:10000126-1746835200-1747612799@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Hackney History Festival
DESCRIPTION:The first Hackney History Festival in 2024 was a huge success\, with over 1679 participants enjoyed 49 events including 24 talks\, 10 walks\, 12 guided tours\, 2 film screenings and a quiz. I offered walks in De Beauvoir and Hoxton during the festival and am doing so again this year – see separate links for more details and booking. The whole event should be fascinating so do browse the programme which has a wealth of talks and more walks by some fabulous guides.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/hackney-history-festival-2
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Shoreditch-refuse-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250517T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250517T153000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250307T100308Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250307T100324Z
UID:10000137-1747490400-1747495800@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:De Beauvoir Town - royal hunting ground to 19C residential estate
DESCRIPTION:De Beauvoir lies in today’s London Borough of Hackney and is still sometimes called ‘Kingsland’ because Henry VIII hunted here. It is distinct from but nestled up close to Dalston\, London Fields\, the Regent’s Canal\, Shoreditch\, south east Islington and Mildmay. It is also known locally as ‘the jam between the Islington and Hackney sandwich’! \n\n\n\nThis walk explores the origins of the area\, including a grand manor house from the 1600s which eventually became a ‘mad house’\, then legal wrangles leading to extensive 19C residential development of pretty streets and a stunning square. We will also hear of lost churches\, a canal basin with wharves that supplied much of the building material for today’s houses\, a factory powered by tall windmills\, the significance of horse stabling and much more. \n\n\n\nThis walk is part of the exciting Hackney History Festival in May https://hackneyhistoryfestival.org – do browse for a fabulous programme of talks\, walks and tours. \n\n\n\nBooking is absolutely essential and numbers are limited for your enjoyment and safety https://www.tickettailor.com/events/hackneyhistoryfestival/1589863 \n\n\n\nThe walk will start at Haggerston Station\, last around 90 minutes and end near the canal and Southgate Road.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/de-beauvoir-town-royal-hunting-ground-to-19c-residential-estate-4
LOCATION:Haggerston Station\, E8 4DY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/IMG_1976-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250521T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250521T153000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250105T172904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250105T172905Z
UID:10000121-1747836000-1747841400@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Canonbury Tower Tour
DESCRIPTION:Canonbury Tower near Canonbury Square is a survivor of Islington’s Tudor and even earlier history. It was built in the late 16th century as an addition to an earlier manor house\, features beautiful wood panelling in some rooms\, was home to several notable people including Francis Bacon and Oliver Goldsmith\, and offers a fantastic view from the roof. Courtesy of the seventh Marquess of Northampton\, Islington Guides are now offering two tours each month\, strictly limited to 10 guests. \n\n\n\nBooking link here: https://canonburytower.eventbrite.co.uk \n\n\n\nSelect 21st May for my tour in the drop down – other dates will be led by equally knowledgeable and charming Islington Guides!
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/canonbury-tower-tour-9
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_3133-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250528T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250528T133000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250328T121340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T121341Z
UID:10000140-1748430000-1748439000@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Historic Holborn
DESCRIPTION:Explore the hidden histories either side of busy High Holborn – Hatton Garden\, Leather Lane\, inns of law and chancery and ancient churches. \n\n\n\nHigh Holborn was originally a westward path up from a crossing over the River Fleet\, leading through green fields and connecting the mediaeval City to Westminster. The areas to either side featured bishop’s palaces\, the first church of the Knights Templar\, legal inns and ancient markets. Later\, smart residential enclaves developed\, then coaching inns\, industry\, jewellery and diamond trades thrived\, followed by extreme poverty and slums\, contrasted with Victorian temples of commerce. \n\n\n\nMore recent rejuvenation now sits by side by side with much of the old fabric of the area\, including several Grade I listed buildings. We explore them all on this wander through the alleyways and green spaces at the south-east boundary of today’s Camden borough. \n\n\n\nPre-booking essential – please click here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/historic-holborn/2025-05-28
LOCATION:Farringdon Station EC1M 6BY United Kingdom\, EC1M 6BY\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Staples-Inn.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250607T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250607T133000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240104T145834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T120407Z
UID:10000138-1749294000-1749303000@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:‘Beating the Bounds’ from King’s Cross to Farringdon
DESCRIPTION:A historic walk winding either side of the border between Camden and Islington boroughs – also the route of the now-buried River Fleet \n\n\n\n‘Beating the Bounds’ around the borders between parishes\, land ownerships and similar is an ancient tradition\, where the boundary was literally paced out and marked with stones each year. This walk traces today’s border between Camden and Islington\, with detours to explore nearby signs of previous boundaries of parishes\, vestries\, water conduits and historic landowners. \n\n\n\nAlong the way\, we’ll see varied architecture from pretty Georgian and Victorian terraces to old burial grounds\, narrow passages that were once slums and restored industrial buildings; see if we can spot historic boundary markers; meet mediaeval monks\, Tudor and Victorian philanthropists\, a dynasty of 19C architects and builders; and hear of lost wells and pleasure gardens.  \n\n\n\nPre-booking essential – please click here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/beating-the-bounds-from-kings-cross-to-farringdon-3/2025-06-07
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/IMG_0816-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250702T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250702T163000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20240104T145834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T120407Z
UID:10000139-1751464800-1751473800@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:‘Beating the Bounds’ from King’s Cross to Farringdon
DESCRIPTION:A historic walk winding either side of the border between Camden and Islington boroughs – also the route of the now-buried River Fleet \n\n\n\n‘Beating the Bounds’ around the borders between parishes\, land ownerships and similar is an ancient tradition\, where the boundary was literally paced out and marked with stones each year. This walk traces today’s border between Camden and Islington\, with detours to explore nearby signs of previous boundaries of parishes\, vestries\, water conduits and historic landowners. \n\n\n\nAlong the way\, we’ll see varied architecture from pretty Georgian and Victorian terraces to old burial grounds\, narrow passages that were once slums and restored industrial buildings; see if we can spot historic boundary markers; meet mediaeval monks\, Tudor and Victorian philanthropists\, a dynasty of 19C architects and builders; and hear of lost wells and pleasure gardens.  \n\n\n\nPre-booking essential – please click here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/beating-the-bounds-from-kings-cross-to-farringdon-3/2025-07-02
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/IMG_0816-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250706T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250706T133000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250328T121340Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T121341Z
UID:10000141-1751799600-1751808600@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Historic Holborn
DESCRIPTION:Explore the hidden histories either side of busy High Holborn – Hatton Garden\, Leather Lane\, inns of law and chancery and ancient churches. \n\n\n\nHigh Holborn was originally a westward path up from a crossing over the River Fleet\, leading through green fields and connecting the mediaeval City to Westminster. The areas to either side featured bishop’s palaces\, the first church of the Knights Templar\, legal inns and ancient markets. Later\, smart residential enclaves developed\, then coaching inns\, industry\, jewellery and diamond trades thrived\, followed by extreme poverty and slums\, contrasted with Victorian temples of commerce. \n\n\n\nMore recent rejuvenation now sits by side by side with much of the old fabric of the area\, including several Grade I listed buildings. We explore them all on this wander through the alleyways and green spaces at the south-east boundary of today’s Camden borough. \n\n\n\nPre-booking essential – please click here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/historic-holborn/2025-07-06
LOCATION:Farringdon Station EC1M 6BY United Kingdom\, EC1M 6BY\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Staples-Inn.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250803T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250803T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250718T090405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250718T091018Z
UID:10000143-1754218800-1754226000@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Undercurrent: Wandering the Walbrook
DESCRIPTION:An intriguing walk from Moorgate to Old Street exploring the lost river Walbrook and other watery undercurrents\, from the medieval to today. \n\n\n\nI 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. \n\n\n\nThough 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. \n\n\n\nAlong 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. \n\n\n\nThis 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.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/undercurrent-wandering-the-walbrook
LOCATION:Moorgate Station\, Moorgate\, London\, EC2M 6TX\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EV-museum-image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250824T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250824T163000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250516T171740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250516T171742Z
UID:10000142-1756045800-1756053000@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Four Hundred Years of the New River
DESCRIPTION:An opportunity to walk a beautiful section of the New River from Finsbury Park to Canonbury. The route takes us along part of the 400 year old waterway\, through two parks\, a nature reserve\, past two huge reservoir lakes and intriguing parts of London’s history. We guides tend to say ‘it’s not new and it’s not a river’ because it was dug by hand\, completed in 1613 and channeled vital fresh water along a winding 38 miles into London from Hertfordshire. \n\n\n\nI lead this walk on a voluntary basis in support of the Inland Waterways Association. Please book online and I will take payment on the day (cash or card) to pass to them.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/four-hundred-years-of-the-new-river
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_3105-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251010T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251010T123000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250105T173001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250105T173005Z
UID:10000122-1760094000-1760099400@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Canonbury Tower Tour
DESCRIPTION:Canonbury Tower near Canonbury Square is a survivor of Islington’s Tudor and even earlier history. It was built in the late 16th century as an addition to an earlier manor house\, features beautiful wood panelling in some rooms\, was home to several notable people including Francis Bacon and Oliver Goldsmith\, and offers a fantastic view from the roof. Courtesy of the seventh Marquess of Northampton\, Islington Guides are now offering two tours each month\, strictly limited to 10 guests. \n\n\n\nBooking link here: https://canonburytower.eventbrite.co.uk \n\n\n\nSelect 10th October for my tour in the drop down – other dates will be led by equally knowledgeable and charming Islington Guides!
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/canonbury-tower-tour-10
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251029T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251029T153000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20251028T131536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251028T131818Z
UID:10000147-1761746400-1761751800@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Canonbury Tower Tour
DESCRIPTION:Canonbury Tower near Canonbury Square is a survivor of Islington’s Tudor and even earlier history. It was built in the late 16th century as an addition to an earlier manor house\, features beautiful wood panelling in some rooms\, was home to several notable people including Francis Bacon and Oliver Goldsmith\, and offers a fantastic view from the roof. Courtesy of the seventh Marquess of Northampton\, Islington Guides are now offering two tours each month\, strictly limited to 10 guests. \n\n\n\nBooking link here: https://canonburytower.eventbrite.co.uk \n\n\n\nSelect 29th October for my tour in the drop down – other dates will be led by equally knowledgeable and charming Islington Guides!
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/canonbury-tower-tour-8
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/IMG_3133-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251123T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251123T133000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20251009T135739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T143154Z
UID:10000145-1763895600-1763904600@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Clerkenwell Crime and Punishment
DESCRIPTION:Turbulent centuries of monasteries\, vengeance\, courthouses\, prisons\, murder\, social reformers\, a bomb plot and more…. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nClerkenwell lies just outside the old City\, originally the location of the monastic houses from the late 1100s. When Henry VIII siezed these in the 1500s\, some occupants met grim fates. Over the following centuries\, the population increased greatly as London grew and people came looking for work\, and in turn the area became overcrowded\, crime-ridden and squalid. As it lay outside the City’s direct jurisdiction (part of Middlesex)\, the area attracted radicals\, rebels and criminals. The local system of magistrates\, judges and parishes in turn built prisons\, courthouses and workhouses. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nThis walk explores the nature of crime and the various punishments meted out over the centuries in this fascinating area. The route is roughly circular so we will start and end near Farringdon Station – allow 2 hours +. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMore details and booking on Eventbrite here
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/clerkenwell-crime-and-punishment-3/2025-11-23
LOCATION:Farringdon Station EC1M 6BY United Kingdom\, EC1M 6BY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Upcoming online Walks
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251128T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251128T123000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20250729T140309Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T164957Z
UID:10000144-1764327600-1764333000@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Myddelton Square and Spa Fields: a Health & History walk
DESCRIPTION:This is one of a series of free walks developed by Islington Guided Walks for Islington Council. These walks are the perfect chance to stroll at a gentle pace and appreciate some of Islington’s finest green spaces\, while hearing about fascinating and inspiring local history. They are therefore shorter and slower than many of my walks and hopefully just as enjoyable in a different way! \n\n\n\nOn this walk we will explore a beautiful Clerkenwell square built by the historic New River Company\, then wander down to Spa Green gardens and hear more history of this fascinating area. \n\n\n\nMore details and reservations (do please book ahead) for this and monthly walks in other Islington green spaces here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/myddelton-square-and-spa-fields-a-health-history-walk
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251202T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251202T133000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20251009T135739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T143154Z
UID:10000146-1764673200-1764682200@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Clerkenwell Crime and Punishment
DESCRIPTION:Turbulent centuries of monasteries\, vengeance\, courthouses\, prisons\, murder\, social reformers\, a bomb plot and more…. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nClerkenwell lies just outside the old City\, originally the location of the monastic houses from the late 1100s. When Henry VIII siezed these in the 1500s\, some occupants met grim fates. Over the following centuries\, the population increased greatly as London grew and people came looking for work\, and in turn the area became overcrowded\, crime-ridden and squalid. As it lay outside the City’s direct jurisdiction (part of Middlesex)\, the area attracted radicals\, rebels and criminals. The local system of magistrates\, judges and parishes in turn built prisons\, courthouses and workhouses. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nThis walk explores the nature of crime and the various punishments meted out over the centuries in this fascinating area. The route is roughly circular so we will start and end near Farringdon Station – allow 2 hours +. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMore details and booking on Eventbrite here
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/clerkenwell-crime-and-punishment-3/2025-12-02
LOCATION:Farringdon Station EC1M 6BY United Kingdom\, EC1M 6BY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Upcoming online Walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Steinberg-gravestone-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260503T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260503T130000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20260219T141715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T164419Z
UID:10000149-1777806000-1777813200@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Dalston\, Newington Green and Mildmay
DESCRIPTION:A walk circling the Hackney and Islington border north-east of Dalston. An amazingly diverse area including an ancient leper hospital\, a disused Jewish cemetery\, a centre for intellectual debate\, dissent and education\, the oldest terraced houses in London\, fields where Henry the Eighth hunted\, a Grade I listed church and more. We’ll also hear about the origins and story of the ‘Mildmay’ name now used on the rail line through the heart of Hackney.  \n\n\n\nThis walk is just one of the many events in the 3rd Hackney History Festival taking place across the borough this May. More information and booking link for this walk is here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/dalston-newington-green-and-mildmay
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/IMG_2334-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20260219T142244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T163842Z
UID:10000150-1778680800-1778688000@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Historic Hoxton
DESCRIPTION:Hoxton and Shoreditch today are often known as fashionable parts of east London\, areas to eat out in and go clubbing. It’s also an area of astonishing contrasts from post war estates and a park reclaimed from bombed houses\, through to surviving elegant 18C houses\, almshouses\, a radical 19C reforming local authority and road layouts dating back to the Romans. \n\n\n\nThe Gunpowder Plot was unmasked here in 1605\, an enterprising gardener successfully created the first plant hybrids in 1729\, and the first woman Mayor of Shoreditch was elected in 1936. \n\n\n\nThis walk is just one of the many events in the 3rd Hackney History Festival taking place across the borough this May. More information and booking link for this walk is here.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/historic-hoxton-5
LOCATION:Hoxton Overground Station\, Geffrye Street\, London\, E2 8FF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Shoreditch-refuse-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260529T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260529T121500
DTSTAMP:20260405T221224
CREATED:20260105T131310Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T131311Z
UID:10000148-1780052400-1780056900@lesleythompson.co.uk
SUMMARY:Islington Health and History walk: Rosemary Gardens N1
DESCRIPTION:This is one of a series of free walks developed by Islington Guided Walks for Islington Council. These walks are the perfect chance to stroll at a gentle pace and appreciate some of Islington’s finest green spaces\, while hearing about fascinating and inspiring local history. They are therefore shorter and slower than many of my walks and hopefully just as enjoyable in a different way! \n\n\n\nThis gentle walk explores leafy Rosemary Gardens and the surrounding streets and buildings. We will stroll past grassy and wilder woodland areas\, see planting to encourage wildlife\, a tree that grows beans and a football training pitch opened by Arsenal’s Arsene Wenger! \n\n\n\nCenturies ago\, archery was a popular sport here\, then the local inn’s pleasure gardens and country air attracted visitors from the City until a lead factory was built on the site. We will also learn more about the intriguing local history\, including the nearby canal\, houses and warehouses. \n\n\n\nMore details and reservations for this and monthly walks in other Islington green spaces here. These walks are generously funded by Islington Council and are free to attend\, but please do reserve in advance as they are very popular.
URL:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/events/islington-health-and-history-walk-rosemary-gardens-n1
CATEGORIES:Upcoming-walks
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lesleythompson.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/IMG_3469-scaled.jpeg
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END:VCALENDAR