Lee Jackson’s Dirty Old London

Author Lee Jackson guides us through the underbelly of the Victorian metropolis, sharing tales of how past Londoners struggled to stem a rising tide of pollution and dirt. An illustrated talk, viscerally evoking a Victorian London filled with filth, from toxic smog to rotting heaps of household rubbish, dung-filled streets, and, worst of all, the 'monster cesspool' of the River Thames. Followed by a chance to view The Barking Stink’s short animated films illustrating Barking’s own stenches and scented heritage stories.

Lee Jackson is a well-known Victorianist, author and creator of a pre-eminent website on Victorian London. His publications include Dirty Old London:The Victorian Fight Against Filth and Palaces of Pleasure. He is a historian with an abiding interest in social history and geography.

The Barking Stink is a new heritage project by Thames Festival Trust, a scented history created to explore Barking Creek’s rich industrial past. Focussing on historical smells, from fragrant fisheries to noxious factory fumes, The Barking Stink project will engage children and young people in the heritage of where they live, via animated films, a pop-up exhibition, talks, walks and workshops.