London Serial Killers – The Blood and Tears Walk

If you’re into dark stories, true crime, and a bit of spooky history, the London Serial Killers – The Blood and Tears Walk might just be right up your alley. This two-hour walking tour takes you through some of London’s most shadowy spots, where you’ll hear about infamous serial killers, grim historical events, and tales that are often left out of standard city guides. Led by Declan McHugh, author of Bloody London, it promises an engaging mix of storytelling, history, and a dash of the macabre.

What really caught our eye is how highly rated this tour is—averaging a perfect 5.0 from over 600 reviews—and the fact that 97% of participants recommend it. Two other things we love? The tour’s focus on lesser-visited East End spots and the knowledgeable, personable guide who keeps the stories captivating. On the flip side, the tour moves at a brisk pace and covers quite a bit of ground, which might be a consideration if you’re not up for a walk or have mobility concerns.

This experience is best suited for those with an interest in true crime, dark history, or horror fans looking for a different way to see London. It’s also quite popular among solo travelers and small groups, thanks to its intimate size and engaging storytelling style.

Key Points

• Highly rated and recommended by most past participants, with an average 5-star review.
• Expert storytelling by Declan McHugh, who mixes facts with humor and engaging anecdotes.
• Explore lesser-known parts of London that typical tours often overlook, adding a layer of exclusivity.
• A brisk walk covering about 2 miles keeps the experience lively and energetic.
• Ideal for dark history and horror fans but not suitable for those with mobility issues or young children.
• Cost-effective at around $27.45, providing a rich mix of stories, sites, and entertainment.

What to Expect from the Tour: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point: Church of St. Bartholomew the Great

The tour kicks off at this historic church, where Declan shares the chilling story of an uncaught serial killer who murdered two young girls, one at six and another at seven. These cases are linked through eerie similarities, and Declan’s profiling insights make the stories especially compelling. The fact that your first stop involves a story with unresolved mystery immediately sets the tone for the rest. At this point, the group gets a good introduction to London’s dark side, and the discussion about the killer’s profile sparks curiosity.

Holy Sepulchre London: Grave-Robbing and Dark Economics

Next, the tour takes you to Holy Sepulchre, where Declan discusses the sinister economics surrounding dead bodies—grave-robbing and serial killing intertwined through history. You might find this stop intriguing because it broadens the scope from just murders to the darker ways society dealt with the dead in history. The guide points out how the doctors at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital were involved, giving an added layer of dark historical detail.

Old Bailey: Courtroom of Infamous Trials

Then, you’ll visit the iconic Old Bailey, home to some notable serial killer trials. Declan recounts two particularly gruesome cases—one involving a man who was tried twice and falsely sent an innocent man to his death, and another about a killer who murdered 13 women over five years. Past reviewers have noted how engaging these stories are, with one describing the guide as “very knowledgeable” and “a top expert in serial killers in the UK.” Standing outside this historic court, you’ll get a visceral sense of the justice system that faced London’s most notorious criminals.

Printer Street: A Lighthearted Moment

The tour pauses here for a more relaxed segment, where Declan asks the group about their favorite horror movies and shares his personal recommendations, including a cult classic. This break adds a warm, human touch amidst the dark stories, and many have appreciated this lighter moment. It’s a clever way to balance the heavy material with some shared interests, making the tour feel more personal.

Red Lion Court: Victorian Serial Killer with a Global Story

The next stop tells the story of a Victorian serial killer who murdered on two continents and lived in this area. Declan teases a twisted story that sounds like it’s straight out of a movie, leaving you pondering a mystery that remains unsolved. This particular case captivates many as one that could have been a blockbuster film but, oddly, never was.

Hare Place: Jack the Ripper’s Suspect Residence

Of course, no London serial killer tour would be complete without Jack the Ripper. Here, Declan points out the very spot where one of his suspects lived, and he provides a detailed argument for why this person could be Ripper. For Ripper aficionados, this is a highlight, with Declan challenging you to profile the suspect yourself. The “Roll of Honour” question—only one in every 500 people gets it right—adds a fun, competitive element for those who love a challenge.

St. Dunstan In The West: A Creepiest Alley?

Next, you’ll step into what many describe as possibly the creepiest place on the tour—a narrow alley with a haunting atmosphere. Declan conducts a psychic experiment here, which can unsettle even the bravest. Reviewers have said that men, especially in the darker months, have found this spot quite unsettling, emphasizing that this part of the tour is not for the faint-hearted.

Royal Courts of Justice: An Intriguing Stop

This section is less about a specific story and more about the jaw-dropping legal history that the court holds. Declan keeps it interesting, giving you insights into cases and trials that will make you question what you think you know about justice and crime in London.

Portugal Street: More Serial Killers

Here, Declan discusses two serial killers whose trials took place at the Central Criminal Court—one who murdered 15 men and boys, and another, possibly the most dangerous woman in the world. These stories add to the cumulative understanding of London’s dark criminal past.

Ending at Princess Louise Pub

The tour wraps up at this Victorian-style pub, renowned for its decor. Declan shares an almost unbelievable story about a notorious British serial killer’s truly horrific behavior—something you won’t find in typical books or documentaries, because he learned it directly from the forensics head involved in the case. It’s a chilling, memorable way to conclude your evening.

How the Experience Feels: Our Take

The Blood and Tears Walk stands out because of Declan’s storytelling skill. Many reviewers have praised him as “engaging,” “knowledgeable,” and “a natural story-teller.” His blend of facts, dark humor, and interactive segments keeps the tour lively and far from monotonous. The fact that he throws in horror movie debates, personal recommendations, and audience questions makes it feel like a friendly exploration rather than a lecture.

The cost, at around $27.45, feels fair considering the depth of stories, the expert guidance, and the inclusion of visiting sites most travelers don’t see. For the price, you get a mix of entertainment, education, and a peek into London’s shadowy past that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s worth noting that the tour is a fast-paced walk covering about 2 miles, so it’s suitable for those in decent physical shape. The group size is capped at 20, making it intimate enough for questions and conversations.

Many past guests have found the tour enthralling and “the best walking tour” they’ve ever done, especially praising Declan’s passion and vast knowledge. On the other hand, some have pointed out that the tour can be intense and not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. The dark atmosphere in some spots, especially the alley, can be unsettling; the tour is not recommended for anyone in their 70s or with difficulty walking briskly.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions.
• Be prepared for a brisk pace and about 2 miles of walking—comfortable shoes are a must.
• Arrive on time, and factor in extra travel time since underground delays are common.
• If you want photos, just say “Photo” after the story—Declan is very accommodating.
• The tour starts at 7:00 pm, so plan your evening accordingly.

The Sum Up

If you’re fascinated by London’s dark past, true crime stories, or just looking for a uniquely engaging way to explore the city, the Blood and Tears Walk offers an experience that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy detailed storytelling, insider stories that aren’t in books, and a tour led by someone who genuinely loves sharing this part of history.

While it’s not suitable for those who prefer a slow, leisurely stroll or have mobility challenges, active, curious travelers will find this tour to be a highlight. The combination of dark tales, historical context, and Declan’s charismatic approach makes it a memorable way to spend an evening in London.

All in all, this tour is a fantastic option for horror fans, true crime buffs, or anyone looking to see a different side of London. Just be prepared for some creepy spots, brisk walking, and stories that might keep you up at night.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12, and it’s best suited for those able to handle dark, intense stories. Children under 12 might find some content too unsettling.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately two hours, covering about 2 miles of walking through central London.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather, as it operates in all conditions. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended due to the brisk pace.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, just say “Photo” after I finish speaking about a story or site, and I’ll gladly pause for a picture.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for teenagers, the dark and sometimes unsettling stories make it less ideal for very young children.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided walk, live entertainment, and visits to various sites. No extra charges are mentioned.

How many people usually join the tour?
The tour has a maximum of 20 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Be sure to plan ahead to avoid missing out.

If you’re after a dark, intriguing, and well-led walk through London’s shadowy history, the Blood and Tears Walk is a solid choice that many find both fun and chilling. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and maybe a flashlight for that alley!