Murder and a Pint!
Prologue.
I’m not normally one to partake in a “busman’s holiday”. Before you ask, I fall into the category of those who once investigated these matters, not committed them! Just thought I’d clear that one up right out of the gate.
Today, we are exploring the Historic Pubs of East London's Jack the Ripper Era. If you're a fan of history, true crime, and a good pint, then you'll love exploring the historic pubs of East London. The notorious serial killer terrorized the area in the late 1880s, and visiting the pubs where he and his victims may have frequented adds an eerie and intriguing layer to your visit in this now vibrant part of the city.
Jack the Ripper is the nickname given to an unidentified serial killer who was active in the Whitechapel area of East London between 1888 and 1891. The name "Jack the Ripper" originated from a letter written by someone claiming to be the murderer that was published at the time. The letter was addressed to the Central News Agency and signed "Jack the Ripper."
Jack the Ripper is believed to have murdered at least five women, all of whom were sex trade workers, in a brutal and gruesome manner. The murders took place between August and November of 1888, and the victims were Mary Ann Nicholls, Annie Chapman, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes, and Mary Jane Kelly. The murders were never solved, and the identity of Jack the Ripper remains one of the greatest unsolved mysteries in criminal history.
Pubs to Visit on Your Jack the Ripper Pub Crawl
Ten Bells: This historic pub, located on Commercial Street, dates back to the 1700s and is thought to have been a favorite of Jack the Ripper's victims. Today, it's a popular spot for a pint and a bite to eat, with a menu that features classic pub fare. On tap, you'll find a rotating selection of cask ales and craft beers, as well as a wide selection of wines and spirits. Must-try menu items include the fish and chips, the Ten Bells burger, and the Ploughman's lunch.
The Water Poet: This charming pub, located on Folgate Street, has a long history dating back to the 1600s. It's believed that Jack the Ripper may have spent time here, and today it's a great spot for a drink and a relaxed atmosphere. On tap, you'll find a rotating selection of cask ales and craft beers, as well as a wide selection of wines and spirits. Must-try menu items include the pie of the day, the Water Poet burger, and the sausage roll.
The Princess Alice: This pub, located on Whitechapel Road, is named after the tragic story of the Princess Alice steamboat disaster that took place in the River Thames in 1878. Today, it's a lively spot for a drink and a bite to eat, with a menu that features traditional pub fare. On tap, you'll find a rotating selection of cask ales and craft beers, as well as a wide selection of wines and spirits. Must-try menu items include the Sunday roast, the fish and chips, and the Princess Alice burger.
The Coach and Horses: This historic pub, located on Crispin Street, is thought to have been a favorite of the local working-class population in the late 1800s. Today, it's a charming spot for a drink and a meal, with a menu that features classic pub fare. On tap, you'll find a rotating selection of cask ales and craft beers, as well as a wide selection of wines and spirits. Must-try menu items include the steak and kidney pie, the scotch egg, and the Coach and Horses burger.
The Rose and Crown: This historic pub, located on Houndsditch, has a long history dating back to the 1600s. It's believed that Jack the Ripper may have spent time here, and today it's a great spot for a drink and a relaxed atmosphere. On tap, you'll find a rotating selection of cask ales and craft beers, as well as a wide selection of wines and spirits. Must-try menu items include the pub's famous fish pie, the Ploughman's lunch, and the Rose and Crown burger.
Best Walking Route
To experience all of these historic pubs in one walking tour, start at the Ten Bells on Commercial Street and head southeast on Whitechapel Road until you reach the Princess Alice. From the Princess Alice, head southeast on Whitechapel Road until you reach the Coach and Horses on Crispin Street. Finally, head north on Houndsditch until you reach the Rose and Crown. This route will take you past all of the historic pubs and through the heart of the East End, giving you a glimpse into the history of the area and the time of Jack the Ripper.
Visiting the historic pubs of East London's Jack the Ripper era is a must-do for fans of history and true crime. Not only will you get to experience a piece of London's past, but you'll also get to enjoy a drink and a meal in some of the city's most charming and atmospheric pubs. Go off piste from time to time as well. There are hundreds if not thousands of east end pubs to wander into. So put on your walking shoes, that deerstalker hat you thought you’d never wear and grab a map. Get ready to explore the haunted and fascinating world of Jack the Ripper or if you’re hungry “Jack the Chipper”!
Please leave a comment if you have a moment, I do love to hear from you.
Live Well,
Mark
