A Walk Around Charles Dickens' London - Book Review

The walking tour is divided into two stages with clear, simplified maps for each stage.

The book was first published in 2001 and I tried the tour in 2008. A few changes have happened but the basic tour was still valid.

• Roman Baths used by Dickens
• The Old Curiosity Shop
• Lincoln's Inns - historic buildings where barristers train and Lincoln's Inn Fields
• Charles Dickens Museum

I didn't know there was a Charles Dickens Coffee House in Covent Garden or that there are Roman Baths tucked down a secret alley off The Strand.

I didn't get to see the Old Curiosity Shop open but I was thrilled to go into Lincoln's Inn - a private area of historic buildings, dating back to the 14th century. I've never dared walk in before but I am pleased to say no-one stopped me. I believe as long as you're respectful of the fact it's a working area for lawyers they don't mind visitors coming in.

The second half of the tour led me out of the City of London and into Bloomsbury. I was introduced to Dickens' "oasis of tranquility" just off High Holborn and I agree it was a good spot to stop and relax.

The tour ends at the Charles Dickens Museum which is well worth a visit.

If Dickens interests you, you may well want to see the temporary exhibition at the Museum of London (on till 10 June 2012): Dickens and London.

Nearby Attractions

• Coram's Fields - Children's Playground
• The Foundling Museum
• British Museum

You may well also enjoy a day trip from London to visit Dickens World.