All's Well that Ends Well in Clerkenwell

Join this lunchtime talk to discover how water shaped 900 years of health in Clerkenwell - monastic wells, New River, spas & a health centre

From the Clerks’ Well at the 12th century St Mary’s nunnery that gives the area its name, to Berthold Lubetkin’s 20th century vision that ‘nothing is too good for ordinary people’ via the Jacobean New River Project and the Georgian spas gardens,

During this talk, Carolyn Paul will explore the area now called Clerkenwell, starting from the time it was occupied by religious institutions built on land donated to them by rich landowners. The land was rural, ideally situated on the bank of the River Fleet, well supplied by natural wells and springs and close to the City of London. These religious communities supported both the spiritual and physical health of the local population.

Discover changes due to the remarkable New River project completed by Hugh Myddelton in 1613 as a response to the demand for an improved water supply to the ever-expanding population of the London. From the end of the 17th century this part of Islington became famous for the ‘medicinal’ water of its spas and the associated health benefits of leisurely walks in the pleasure gardens, musical performances and other recreational activities in an area sometimes referred to as the ‘New Tunbridge Wells’.

Uncover further changes due to industries such as brewing and distilling that helped to fuel the rebels, rioters and reformers populating the area throughout the 18th and 19th century. And, find out why Berthold Lubetkin and Tecton’s avant-guard Finsbury Health Centre was opened as part of the radical ‘Finsbury Plan’, including public baths and laundries alongside conventional medical services.

About the speaker:

• Carolyn Paul is a member of the City of London Guide Lecturers Association.

What to expect:

• The talk will last approximately 50-60 minutes followed by Q&A.

IMPORTANT: This talk will be taking place in-person only at The London Archives.