This evening’s route takes us from the dark depths of Fleet Valley into turbulent territory outside the former city walls of modern Smithfield – via drinks in some grand pubs.

25 March is Lady Day - the start of a new year in ancient times - so what better way to celebrate than an historic pub crawl through one of London’s most interesting districts?

After a fortifying glass of something at Ye Olde Mitre, we’ll be stopping at other fine pubs along the way (all drinks at your own expense) while encountering:

• bishops, priors, monks and martyrs
• monarchs and other rulers
• merchants of meat, cloth and haberdashery
• dodgy traders, gamblers, pickpockets, assorted rogues
• a couple of famous detectives
• physicians, plague-victims and pensioners
• beasts and general beastliness

I’ll be using a radio mic system, you are welcome to bring your favourite headphones.

Depart from Ye Olde Mitre, EC1N 6JS. Arrive earlier and enjoy a drink there first.