Follow Clerkenwell’s hidden waters – How springs, spas and a river made Clerkenwell
By Emanuela Aru, Clerkenwell and Islington Guide
From the vanished River Fleet to holy wells, monastic precincts, spas and pleasure gardens, this walk explores how water shaped Clerkenwell across the centuries. We’ll trace the Fleet from medieval river to buried sewer, discover why this area was full of breweries, distilleries and two powerful religious houses, and see how a single well gave Clerkenwell its name.
We’ll also look at London’s first commercial aqueduct and the days when 17th–18th century Londoners came north for clean air, chalybeate waters and entertainment.
Finally, I’ll share my research from the Black Mary Project (funded by the Mayor of London and Arts Council England) and take you to the spot where Black Mary’s well once stood. According to local lore, this well was tended in the 17th century by Mary Woolaston, a free Black woman whose story has long been obscured by gaps in the historical records.
It’s a walk about water, yes – but really it’s about how water shaped settlement, work, faith and pleasure in Clerkenwell.
Dates: Saturday 6th December 11am; Saturday 13th December 11am
Starts at Farringdon Station and ends at Sadler’s wells. Duration: 2 hours.
Tickets are £15 and available here.
