This is the fascinating story of a much loved London common whose stories echo a 1000 years of British history as it changed from a sleepy village along a Roman road to a country retreat for London's upper classes to finally a people's park, a vibrant metropolitan green space.
It's full of fascinating stories all told by a seasoned TV tour guide. Hear stories about ...
How the common was once split due to a dispute by landowners
How greedy Claphamites simply tried to claim the common as their own
The movement to end slavery
The site of ancient churches, grand old mansions
Learn of the pond where Benjamin Franklin did a crazy experiment
The hospital started and run by only women (except the gardener. He was male)
Where people lived deep underground to escape the Blitz
Stage coaches and the highwaymen
Art deco houses
Firefighters and World War 2 bombs
The Temperance movement statue that nearly broke London Bridge
Bandstand
An old Roman road, tunrnpikes and milestones
Clapham’s rich heritage of sport
The tour is suitable for people who are new to the history of the area and no prior knowledge is assumed. The walking pace is medium. The tour will go ahead even if it is raining so please come suitably attired.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts just over 2 hours and covers about 1.5 miles. Some of the walk may be over grass or mud.
Who is the tour guide?
Loona Hazarika was born 2 miles away from Clapham Common so know this piece of land very well.
He's been giving guided tours of London since 2006. he has made multiple appearances as a historian on national TV documentaries. He's also a voice actor and you might hear his voice on radio or on some audio guides in some far flung part of the plant. He holds a masters degree from the University of Cambridge.
(You can read some of his reviews below.)
How much does this tour cost?
It's free but all donations go to Royal Trinity Hospice. We recommend a donation of £10-£15.
Can I just turn up?
Please book a ticket on eventbrite to guarantee your place as places are limited.
If you have any queries please contact Loona on 07812 218 288 or email him at loona@letsdiscoverlondon.com
We have a whole lot of other tours and you'll find details here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/our-guided-walks-and-virtual-tours-coming-up-soon-1784829?
