If you enjoy discovering a different, intriguing side of the capital, The London Archives in Clerkenwell is well worth a visit this autumn.
With exhibitions, talks, tours and behind-the-scenes events taking place throughout October and November, there’s plenty going on for anyone who’s curious about the capital’s fascinating past.
One of the main attractions is Londoners on Trial: Crime, Courts and the Public 1244–1924, an exhibition exploring almost 700 years of the city’s criminal and legal history. From medieval courts to the early twentieth century, it reveals some of the people, cases and controversies that have shaped the city. If you’d like to get more from the exhibition, curator-led tours are taking place from 7 to 10 November.
There’s also Spotlight on Medieval London, a free display running throughout October and November. It brings together fascinating medieval material, including illuminated manuscripts and fifteenth-century watercolours. It’s a great reminder that the capital’s history stretches back far beyond the familiar Victorian streets and landmarks we tend to associate with the capital.
The London Archives programme gets particularly interesting towards the end of October. Talks include the extraordinary 1441 trial of Eleanor Cobham, accused of necromancy and treason, while Searching for Sancho explores the remarkable life and work of Ignatius Sancho through literature and music. There’s even a chance to visit the conservation studio and discover how fragile historical documents are carefully preserved.
November brings more opportunities to look behind the scenes, including a tour of the enormous archive facility, which contains around 100 kilometres of archival storage. There are also talks covering subjects as varied as the Frost Fairs and early coffeehouses, and the fascinating history of Harlequin FC before the rugby club settled in Twickenham.
If you’re new to archival research, free introductory tours can also show you how to explore the collection, while the Open Saturday on 7 November is ideal for those who can’t visit during the week.
The Archives have everything you might be interested in and then more! Londoners on Trial, Spotlight on Medieval London, the trial of Eleanor Cobham, Searching for Sancho, the Frost Fairs, Harlequin FC: it’s all there.
And when you’ve finished exploring the capital’s past, why not enjoy some Italian hospitality? The London Archives is just a 15-minute stroll from Luce e Limoni Italian restaurant!
You’ll find us at 91-93 Gray’s Inn Road, Chancery Lane, London WC1X 8TX
Call Us 020 724 23382 | Email Us flavours@luceelimoni.com
