Poplar

The derelictlondon.com website is now in its 15th year and following a sellout of all dates since 2013 so far Paul Talling is giving a handful more tours of his favourite derelict sites in the Limehouse and Poplar area before the area becomes even more regenerated.As well as what is left of the dereliction this tour focuses as much on hidden sites of interest, social history and change in the area.This tour views the exteriors of sites covered in the Derelict London book such as the decaying premises of a Victorian sail makers & the refurbished art deco Poplar Baths. Other sites include the remains of St Saviours Church which survived the Blitz but not a recent fire, the Limehouse Accumulator tower built in 1869 for regulating one of the first hydraulic power systems. We pass some 1970s graffiti proclaiming that "George Davis is Innocent", numerous derelict shops and industrial units, redundant pub & shop signs in odd places and stories of the mysterious Black Ditch which is featured in Paul's other book London's Lost Rivers.Highlights along the way also include stories of London's original China Town, the 1951 Festival of Britain, visiting the first purpose built pedestrian shopping centre in the UK (with a toilet & refreshment break) and even a short stroll along the Limehouse Cut.This is a circular tour (lasting approx 4 - 4 1/2 hrs) which ends up back at Limehouse Station (unless of course you wish to join Paul for a pint or two in a friendly local pub).We stop for a food and drink break when in Poplar. Dogs are welcome. The tour does not involve trespassing on private property.By purchasing a ticket for a walk you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions: Although public liability insurance is held the organiser shall not be held responsible for accidents, injury, loss or damage to persons or property as a consequence of participation in Paul Talling's walks.Ticket holders are responsible for their own safety while taking part in a walk. The guide is responsible for showing ticket holders sites of interest but not to steward ticket holders across roads etc.The tour goes ahead regardless of the weather. No refunds due to inclement weather are given. The walk will depart promptly at the advertised time & will not wait for late-comers. In the event that a ticket holder misses the walk no refund will be given. You are strongly urged to check TFL for weekend engineering works that may affect your journey. Once a ticket has been purchased the agency is unable to offer a refund.