Sin & Salvation: River Thames Bike Tour

Discover London’s shadowy past on the "Sin & Salvation: River Thames Bike Tour." This captivating 3.5-hour journey explores the medieval Southwark neighborhood, uncovering tales of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, notorious brothels, and bear-baiting rings. Participants gain exclusive access to a secret graveyard, revealing eerie epitaphs and symbols. The tour culminates at a historic riverside pub, where guests can relax with a drink while enjoying breathtaking views of the River Thames. Uncover the hidden secrets that lurk along the storied banks of the Thames.

Key Points

• The bike tour explores the medieval Southwark neighborhood, focusing on Shakespeare’s London and its notorious brothels, bear-baiting rings, and taverns.
• Participants gain exclusive access to a secret graveyard, where they learn about the macabre practices and eerie epitaphs of the 17th century.
• The tour visits the historic send-off location of the Mayflower ship, providing insights into the hardships faced by the early settlers and their lasting impact.
• Cyclists enjoy a scenic ride along the River Thames, covering a distance of 13 km at a moderate pace.
• The tour concludes with a visit to a charming riverside pub, where participants can relax and enjoy a pint while taking in the panoramic views of the river.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The "Sin & Salvation: River Thames Bike Tour" offers a captivating 3.5-hour journey through the historic neighborhoods along the River Thames.

Priced from Kč 1,933 per person, the tour covers 13km at a moderate pace, starting from 189 Hercules Road in London.

Guided in English, the tour provides access to a secret graveyard and the historic send-off location of The Mayflower ship.

Participants can enjoy a Thames-side beer at a historic pub.

The tour includes a hand-built British bicycle, a local guide, and optional equipment.

It’s suitable for individuals 15 and older who can ride a bike solo.

Exploring Shakespeare’s London

As the tour begins, participants explore the rich history of Shakespeare’s London around the medieval Southwark neighborhood.

They explore the bustling streets where the famous Bard’s Globe Theatre once stood, learning about the colorful characters and debauchery that shaped this vibrant district.

The guide shares vivid tales of the Bankside’s notorious brothels, bear-baiting rings, and taverns that were the backdrop for many of Shakespeare’s plays.

Vivid tales of Bankside’s notorious brothels, bear-baiting rings, and taverns that shaped Shakespeare’s work and 16th-century London.

Participants gain a deeper understanding of how this gritty, yet culturally significant area influenced the legendary playwright’s work and the complex social fabric of 16th-century London.

The Secret Graveyard Unmasked

Where does the tour next lead participants? To an exclusive secret graveyard, where gritty tales and haunting history await.

Riders gain access to this off-limits location, uncovering:

• Chilling accounts of 17th-century burials

• Eerie epitaphs etched on weathered tombstones

• Mysterious symbols and folklore surrounding the site

• Insight into the macabre practices of the era

• Stories of those laid to rest in this hallowed ground

This somber yet captivating stop offers a unique glimpse into London’s darkest corners, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the city’s complex past.

The Mayflower’s Historic Departure

Next, the tour leads participants to the historic send-off location of The Mayflower ship.

The group will visit the departure point from which the famous pilgrims set sail for the New World in 1620. This significant site provides a glimpse into the hardships and uncertainties these early settlers faced.

Riders will gain a deeper appreciation for the courage and resolve required to embark on such a perilous journey. The guide shares captivating stories about the Mayflower’s voyage, highlighting the remarkable determination of the pilgrims and the lasting impact of their historic crossing.

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Raising a Glass at the Historic Pub

After exploring the historic sites along the River Thames, the tour concludes with a visit to a charming riverside pub.

Here, guests can enjoy a refreshing pint of beer or a soft drink alternative while taking in the scenic views of the iconic river.

The pub boasts:

• A cozy, traditional atmosphere with original wooden beams and fireplace

• Panoramic windows offering breathtaking vistas of the River Thames

• A selection of local ales, craft beers, and non-alcoholic beverages

• Friendly staff ready to share the pub’s rich history and anecdotes

• The perfect spot to relax and reflect on the tour’s captivating journey.

Bicycle, Guide, and Additional Inclusions

The tour provides participants with a hand-built British bicycle, ensuring a comfortable and authentic cycling experience.

Experience the authentic charm of British cycling with a hand-built bicycle tailored for your comfort.

A knowledgeable local guide accompanies the group, offering insights into the area’s history and culture. Optional accessories like helmets and tweed caps are available, adding to the vintage flair.

In case of inclement weather, a rain poncho is provided. The tour also includes a pint of beer or a soft drink alternative at a historic pub, allowing participants to savor the local atmosphere.

Snacks and additional drinks are also included, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Participant Eligibility and Tour Logistics

Who can participate in this bike tour? The tour is suitable for individuals 15 years and older.

All customers must be able to ride a bike solo. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants should be prepared.

The tour contains historical content that may be disturbing to some. Participants should consider this before booking.

• Suitable for ages 15 and up

• Customers must ride bikes solo

• Tour operates rain or shine

• May contain disturbing historical content

• Book with these considerations in mind

Customer Testimonial and Tour Rating

One verified booking from a GetYourGuide traveler in China rated the "Sin & Salvation: River Thames Bike Tour" a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. The review praised the tour’s engaging historical content and seamless organization.

| Rating | Reviewer Location | Date |

| — | — | — |

| 5/5 | China | May 16, 2023 |

The feedback highlights the tour’s ability to provide an immersive experience, blending insights into London’s past with the thrill of cycling along the iconic River Thames. This positive endorsement underscores the tour’s appeal and quality, making it an enticing option for those seeking a unique and memorable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle on the Tour?

While participants can bring their own bicycles, the tour provides hand-built British bicycles for customer use. This ensures a consistent experience and allows the guide to oversee the safety and comfort of the group.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Physical Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for people with physical disabilities as all customers must be able to ride a bike solo. The tour operates in all weather conditions and contains historical content that may be disturbing to some.

What Happens if It Rains During the Tour?

The tour provides a rain poncho if needed, ensuring participants can continue the tour comfortably in wet weather. The tour operates in all weather conditions, allowing visitors to explore the city’s highlights regardless of the weather.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Customers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour includes a complimentary pint of beer or soft drink alternative, as well as snacks. Bringing additional items is permitted but not required.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a specific minimum or maximum group size. It’s available as a private group option, allowing customers to book the tour for their own exclusive group. The regular tours accommodate participants on an individual basis.

The Sum Up

The "Sin & Salvation: River Thames Bike Tour" offers a captivating exploration of Shakespeare’s London. Participants journey through the medieval Southwark neighborhood, uncover eerie secrets in a hidden graveyard, and culminate their experience at a historic riverside pub. This immersive 3.5-hour tour provides an ideal blend of culture, history, and scenic views, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: