In the Footsteps of Jack London
Jack London Walking Tour
Explore Edwardian London through the Writings of American Author Jack London
Join us on a unique walking tour led by horror writer and qualified London guide David Turnbull. This journey retraces the 1902 footsteps of American author Jack London, who delved into the depths of London’s East End to expose the stark realities faced by the city’s impoverished during the grand coronation preparations for Edward VII.
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David Turnbull, with his expertise in both horror literature and London’s darker historical narratives, guides you through the very paths walked by Jack London. From sleeping rough in the West End to seeking a fabled free breakfast on the smoke-enshrouded Surrey side of the Thames, you’ll experience the city as London did—through the eyes of an out-of-work American sailor immersed in the sprawling slums.
The tour begins at the iconic Waterloo Bridge, where London crossed from the relative opulence of the West End into the industrial heart of Lambeth. Here, amidst the backdrop of smoking factory chimneys and the echoes of the Edwardian era’s social reformers, you’ll gain insights into the lives that struggled beneath the weight of societal neglect.
As you walk along Waterloo Road to the former location of the Salvation Army Social Block, affectionately known as ‘the Peg’ to those it sheltered, David will share tales of the sights, sounds, and smells that inspired Jack London’s groundbreaking social study, “The People of the Abyss.” The journey doesn’t just trace London’s physical route but also his emotional and intellectual voyage as he penned one of the most influential exposés of urban poverty.
The tour doesn’t shy away from the era’s complexities, touching on the other notable figures of the time such as George Orwell, who followed in London’s footsteps with his own explorations of destitution in “Down and Out in Paris and London.” You’ll visit significant landmarks such as the Royal Waterloo Hospital, St. John’s Church, and the sites of historical pubs where the fabric of the local community—warts and all—was woven.
Wrapping up at the Old Vic, where Jack London’s journey both clashed and coincided with the temperance movement led by Emma Cons, the tour concludes with reflections on London’s lasting legacy, not only through his written works but also through his profound impact on future generations of writers and social reformers.
This walking tour with David Turnbull is not merely a historical recount; it’s an immersive experience that brings to life the societal contrasts and literary echoes of Edwardian London through the lens of one of its most poignant chroniclers.
Jack London Walk Reviews
Christine
Fantastic tour. David is amazing as tour guide and he is very knowledgeable. Can’t wait to attend another of his tours.
Nazima
Brilliant walk! Absolutely loved learning so many interesting facts about Jack London and his time in England, his links to Jack the Ripper case, Salvation Army and so on. David Turnbull took our group around back of Waterloo Station showing all the hidden gems and providing photos of how the place looked in Edwardian times. We learnt so much and throughly enjoyed the walk despite pelting rain from time to time!
Anon
Interesting and informative walk. Highly recommend it. Our guide had an amazing knowledge of his subject. Have now ordered more of Jack London’s novels
Eva
A very interesting tour around Waterloo by a very knowledgeable guide. The tour follows the footsteps of Jack London around Waterloo, where the novelist spent time in 1902, which led to the writing of ‘People of the Abyss’
Glynis
Very interesting and engaging. I learned a huge amount. Would highly recommend David’s walks.
Sylvester
A very interesting walk and talk given by David. As I didn’t know that much about Jack London, this was a great insight into his life in London, and learning that he any well have been an inspiration for George Orwell. I greatly recommend this walk and talk.
