London Back Alleys

Anyone who knows London knows that it is a city for walking. We think of London as a big city but it really is a collection of villages and squares, each containing little nooks and crannies that most people don’t know about. One of my greatest joys when I visit is to walk the back alleys of “the town”. In my walks I have found Hen & Chicken Court (did Pepys live nearby?) and the Home of Sir Lawrence, just to name a few. A number of nice pubs can be found as well. Most people think of back Alleys as sinister places to avoid but they can yield wonderful finds. As for Back Alley, yes it does exist in London.

It was with delight that I found a website by Ivor Hoole entitled A Guide
to the alleys, courts, passages and yards of central London. These alleys have been here for centuries and they hold London’s history. Mr. Hoole writes eloquently about them and their history. His site should be required reading before any visit to London. He has taken the time to list over 400 alleys and yards and his passion for his work comes through. I have to say that it would be a pleasure to take a walk with Mr. Hoole. On your walks you will notice blue plaques on the front of homes. These show where famous people once lived. More information can be found at English Heritage and here is a map.