A Road to Ruin Private Tour

The perfect private tour for those with a keen interest in history, London and alcohol.

The walking tour ventures through Clerkenwell, historically an area of gin and beer production. Discover an ancient drover’s road known as the road to ruin which led to riches for some and destitution for others.

Private alcohol-themed walking tour
Discover an ancient drover’s road
Qualified CIGA tour guide

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Investigate a number of fascinating buildings along an ancient Drover’s road into London including an ‘in and out pub’, a world famous inn, a brewery, two gin distilleries and even a licensed pawn broker!

During this private tour will also be investigating the relationship between Londoners and their alcohol, whether that’s making, drinking or selling it. We explore different classes of society and how the popular English past-time of drinking was interpreted by artists of the day including Georgian engraver and artist William Hogarth.

Delve into the past & investigate the relationship between different classes of society in London and what this meant for the alcohol they were able to drink. What was the impact of production and consumption of alcohol? How did artists depict society and the expectations put on the different classes.

In a time of pleasure gardens why were illegal stills and drinking dens become a necessity? Get to know what business men did to keep their workers working and their clients coming back time and time again.

Learn how we gained the expressions ‘One for the road’, ‘a Mother’s ruin’ and ‘dead drunk’.

Perfectly suitable for tea totals; no alcohol consumption involved. You have the option to end the tour at a unique pub.

Start: Angel Tube Station
End: Farringdon Station

Your Guide: Hazel Baker

A Road to Ruin Private Tour Reviews

Patrick Larvie

See the original review

June 2021

“We went on a private guided tour called Road to Ruin. Hazel was our guide and we thoroughly enjoyed our 90 minutes with her. She was very knowledgeable and entertaining and could answer all our questions. There were four of us and we all felt it was good value for money and time well spent. We would go on another of these tours at the drop of a hat. Would highly recommend.”

Andrew

“A thoroughly interesting and pleasant walk around Farringdon exploring the history of London and its relationship with alcohol. Brilliantly guided tour with a fascinating explanation and comparison of some famous Hogarth sketches. Great way to spend a Saturday morning.”

Jade

“Thank you Hazel. Fabulous alcohol themed tour. I am hooked to history of London now.”

Chloe

“Another really enjoyable social historic tour, thanks Hazel!”

Rosemarie

“Excellent! The best way to see and learn the interesting cultural aspects of London.

Ian

“Thanks Hazel for an informative and enjoyable walking tour.”