Deep in the shadows of the City of London’s historic marketplace lies a purple monster ready to burst through the Victorian windows – as it prepares to make its return to Leadenhall in time for Halloween.
Deep in the shadows of the City of London’s historic marketplace lies a purple monster ready to burst through the Victorian windows – as it prepares to make its return to Leadenhall in time for Halloween.
The giant six-metre tentacles have become an annual fixture in Leadenhall Market’s Halloween celebrations. The creeping limbs are in stark contrast to the magical starry ceilings, charming cobbled alleyways and listed architecture, making for an atmospheric setting for the year’s spookiest holiday.
Also back by popular demand are the City of London guides’ Burials, Bombs and Fantastic Beasts walking tours – which this year will be running two evenings per week:
Burials, Bombs and Fantastic Beasts walking tours 6.30 – 8pm
- Every Wednesday from 2nd – 30th October
- Every Thursday from 10th – 31st October
- There have been people living and working in this area since Roman times and a huge amount has happened to them! As the days draw in, take a walk on the dark side of Leadenhall with us this October to explore some of their sinister history – with witchcraft, murder and death at almost every turn.
- Tickets need to be booked in advance and are available at the subsidised price of £7 (plus fees) here.
The market will be running a social media competition to name the lurking creature – offering one lucky pair the chance to get into the spirit of All Hallows Eve by winning two places on the 31 October spooky walk. For details, visit: @leadenhallmarket
Leadenhall’s history goes back nearly 2000 years. It was built on the site of the Roman Basilica and Forum, and during the medieval period was a market selling meat, fish and herbs, continuing well into the 17th century, as a place where wool merchants baled and weighed wool – the source of the City of London’s wealth.
Situated in the centre of the City of London’s financial district, the current Grade II listed Market building, designed by Horace Jones, dates back to 1881. Its airy and light wrought iron and glass structure replaced the stone market previously created by Lord Mayor of London, Dick Whittington in the 15th Century.
It is now home to a range of boutique retailers, restaurants, cafes, wine bars and an award-winning pub, The Lamb Tavern.
For more details on Leadenhall Market, visit their website.
Leadenhall Market is owned and managed by The City of London Corporation.
