Bermondsey: From the “Land of Leather” to a London Sake Brewery

Bermondsey traces its origins to the establishment of the Priory of St Saviour, but it became famous as London's centre of leather tanning. This industry required vast quantities of water, and Bermondsey's marshy landscape—drained by the Priory in the 11th century—provided the ideal environment for its development.
Our walk begins with the Guinness Trust flats, Guy's Hospital burial ground, and a striking former missionary building. We will pass the impressive former London Leather, Hide & Wool Exchange, whose ornate reliefs illustrate the processes of the leather trade.
Along the way we will see the former premises of Christy & Co., once the world's largest hat and cap manufacturer in the mid-19th century, the Fashion and Textile Museum and the contemporary art gallery White Cube.
Other highlights include St Mary Magdalen Church and its historic churchyard, where members of the Rolls family—associated with Rolls-Royce—are buried. Nearby stands the old Parish Watch House, once used by local guards to deter grave robbers, or "resurrection men", and now home to a café.
Bermondsey Square and Grange Walk mark the site of the former abbey complex. Some of the late 17th-century houses here are believed to incorporate parts of the medieval abbey gatehouse.
We will then walk beneath the railway bridge of London's first railway line connecting Spa Road, Bermondsey, and Deptford, notable for its distinctive columns.
London and Greenwich Railway - Wikipedia
After passing New Concordia Wharf, St Saviour's Dock, and Jacob's Island, we will return to the railway arches for refreshments at Kanpai London Craft Sake Brewery and Taproom. Kanpai offers a range of sake as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. KANPAI - Discover Our London Craft Sake Brewery And Taproom. Those wishing to continue afterwards may also visit Southwark Brewing Company, located next door.
Please Note
• Participation is entirely at your own risk.
• We will wait five minutes after the advertised start time before setting off.
• Once the walk has begun, I will be unable to answer phone calls or messages.