Join us on this enlightening walking tour through Euston and Fitzrovia, where the stories of courageous women intertwine with the fascinating history of medicine. Explore their struggles, triumphs, and enduring legacies, all while immersing yourself in the captivating architecture and ambience of this remarkable London neighbourhood.
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Our journey begins at the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Hospital on Euston Road, where we learn about Elizabeth Garrett Anderson herself. As the first qualified and practising female doctor in England, her story is truly awe-inspiring, showcasing her journey from a society resistant to change to becoming a trailblazer in medicine.
We pay tribute to Louisa Aldrich-Blake, the first woman to qualify as a surgeon. Explore the challenges she faced and the triumphs she achieved in a profession historically dominated by men.
Our exploration of Fitzrovia takes us to the Wellcome Building, where we discover initiatives and programs encouraging young girls to pursue careers in science and medicine. Learn about the innovative efforts shaping the future of women in medicine.
Delve into the childhood and career of Elizabeth Garrett Anderson at the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Wing of University College Hospital. Her pioneering achievements paved the way for future generations of female medical practitioners.
At the Cruciform building, formerly the North London Hospital, we uncover an intriguing connection to Agatha Christie, the renowned mystery writer who spent time within its walls. Be captivated by the stories that emerged from this period of her life.
Prepare for a surprising twist at our next stop, General Francisco de Miranda in Fitzroy Square. Discover the unexpected tale of Margaret Anne Bulkley, who defied societal norms by assuming a male identity to pursue a medical career as a nanny. Her extraordinary journey will leave you reflecting on the lengths people go to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their passions.
We shift gears to a more modern era as we arrive at the Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, housed in a contemporary building. Here, we explore the remarkable story of a woman brain surgeon who practised during the tumultuous period of the Second World War. Learn about her exceptional contributions to medicine amidst the challenges of wartime.
Our journey into the past leads us to Cleveland Street, where the old Middlesex Hospital once stood. This was where Elizabeth Garrett Anderson began her medical training. Discover her early days as a student and the formative experiences that shaped her illustrious career.
Taking a poignant turn, we visit the John Astor Nurses’ Home to pay tribute to a nurse who lost her life while saving others. Reflect on the selfless dedication of nurses and their profound impact on the medical profession.
Finally, our expedition concludes at the Fitzrovia Chapel, the last remaining structure of the Middlesex Hospital. Marvel at its beautiful architecture and take a moment to contemplate the legacy of the remarkable women who dedicated their lives to healing and medical advancement.
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“A most interesting, entertaining, informative and energetic London Walk with Sylvia. Her extensive knowledge
of her subject ‘Women in Medicine’ was impressive and delivered in an exceedingly delightful way. My
husband and I were students at The Middlesex Hospital in the 1960’s (Medicine and Radiography) and could
add to the rivalry between The Middlesex Hospital and University College Hospital in the 60s both in medical
training and on the rugby pitch. Later combined to form Unisex Hospital and later to be renamed UCL Hospital.
The Middlesex Hospital site in Mortimer Street was sold off for redevelopment and sadly it’s beautiful facade
was not preserved/conserved. The Medical School building, apparently the original hospital building has also
been demolished. Only the wonderful Middlesex Hospital Chapel remains complete in its magnificent
splendour standing in what would have been the hospital garden.
A very enjoyable nostalgic day for us both and highly recommended.”
Susan Barnes
“A well-paced and very informative walk with the hugely knowledgeable and enthusiastic Sylvia. Learnt so much
about the struggles of women trying to make their mark in the male-dominated world of medicine… many
admirable role models!!
Highly recommend.
Susan Hassapis
“Sylvia is a fount of knowledge. She had so many interesting stories to tell about women pioneers in medicine and nursing. Some of the
original hospital buildings still stand, though many have been put to other use. It was marvellous to be able to view all the various forms of
architecture and for an hour-and-a-half be lead expertly around this aspect of London history. Would definitely recommend.”
Bridget Ann
“Excellent! This was so worthwhile, so interesting and so brilliantly delivered by Sylvia. Thank you for your wonderful storytelling, weaving the history, the architecture, the people through this near history that seems both so far away and in other ways so close to where we are now. Women in Medicine is a necessary history to understand- how we got to where we are helps us see where we need to go (and not go back to). Thank you so much for this tour- loved it! I will be back for others.”
Colette
“This walk was very informative, and visited buildings and features that you would not normally notice. The guide was also very entertaining.”
David
“This was such an interesting and informative walk. Sylvia our guide was brilliant so knowledgeable as a historian and also a brilliant storyteller. She linked all the stories together to give real feel and structure. The pace and content was just right . Saw parts of London I’d not seen before and buildings I’d not noticed ! Thought I knew something about women in medicine but learnt so much . Will be booking any walk Sylvia does!”
Lynn
“This was such an interesting subject for a guided walk. Our guide, Sylvia, was extremely knowledgeable about this beautiful area of London, which became so important in the era of women entering the medical profession for the first time. We heard in detail about how these brave women repeatedly had to battle the odds in order to achieve their aim of becoming doctors, or even being allowed to dispense medication.”
Suzie
“This was an excellent and very informative Walk. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable.”
Cora
“We had a fabulous walk with Sylvia. She was so knowledgeable about her subject and so passionate about story telling. The history of women in medicine was fascinating and I’d highly recommend it.”
Sian Healey
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