Why a Booktrail?
Do you know what the oldest house in the capital is?
The Oldest House in London
What you need to know before your trail
LONDON’s old buildings hold a wealth of clues to the city’s rich and vibrant past. The histories of some, such as the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey, are well documented. However, these magnificent, world-renowned attractions are not the only places with fascinating tales to tell. Down a narrow, medieval lane on the outskirts of Smithfield stands 41–42 Cloth Fair – the oldest house in the City of London. Fiona Rule uncovers the fascinating survival story of this extraordinary property and the people who owned it and lived in it, set against the backdrop of an ever-changing city that has prevailed over war, disease, fire and economic crises.
Travel Guide
London
This is the oldest private home in the city of London, but its outward appearance gives few clues to its fascinating and ancient heritage. In fact, most people are unaware of its existence. It hides in plain sight at 41 – 4 Cloth Market – a narrow street sandwiched between the glass and iron splendour of Smithfield Market and the high walls of Bart’s Hospital.
Cloth Fair’s Smithfield entrance yields an unpromising view but anyone who cares to venture a little further down the street will be rewarded. Victorian brick quickly gives way to ancient stonework as the magnificent Church or St Bartholomew the Great looms into view….
The inhabitants of this house have been through the trials and tribulations from the city such as the Great fire, the plague, and revolutions of varying disguise.
Streetview Maps
A) London - The Oldest House
B) London - The Oldest Church
Booktrail Boarding Pass: The Oldest House in London
Destination: London Author/Guide: Fiona Rule
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