Don’t worry this walk certainly isn’t all gloom and doom. You see beautifully preserved buildings, an old cemetery that is now an intriguing park and stroll along a lovely canal. You start by seeing the nice house where Dr Barnardo was living when he realised something had to be done about the local destitute boys. Across the street is one of London’s best preserved old workhouses, and behind that is one of its most historic cemeteries. You see these before strolling along a nice canal to the Ragged School Museum. Then it’s time to head down to Limehouse via another interesting area including the spot where Barnardo had his first school, a beautiful old church, grade listed old cottages, a square straight out of Eastenders, the old street where a famous Hollywood director lived as a child, and the remnants of another workhouse. You can finish at a station or cafe, or if you don’t mind walking a bit further you can finish at an historic, charming old riverside pub.

Start Walk: Bow Road underground station
Finish Walk: Limehouse DLR station, cafe or pub
Shorter Walk Alternative: Finish at Ragged School Museum