Blackfriars Bridge and Doggett's Pub

Blackfriars Bridge was opened in 1899 by Queen Victoria, who was so unpopular at the time that she was heckled by the crowds at the opening. The bridge replaced an earlier one that was built in 1769. This bridge was originally named after William Pitt, the Tory Prime Minister. However, the title was so unpopular that its name was soon changed to that of the Black Friars, an order of monks that settled in London in 1279.

Parallel to the bridge ran a rail bridge and you can still see the remains of it - the red columns in the river and the insignia of the railway company.

Doggett's Coat and Badge Pub (pictured) is named after the famous Doggett's Coat and Badge race which runs from Tower Bridge to Chelsea. Started in 1715 and held annually in July, it is the oldest and longest single skulls race in the world. Racers are apprentice Thames Watermen and the prize is still a silk lined coat and badge. The winner is entitled to escort the Queen on the Thames.

The Founders Arms is so named because it was built on the site of the foundry where all the iron work for St Paul's was forged.

Did You Know?

During Victorian times, London’s foundries cast everything from locomotives to bridges and machine tools. However, their main focus was on the production of domestic and architectural items such as pavement lights and street furniture.

Look around as you wander along and you are likely to see evidence of their work.

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