Giant tentacles are snaking their way out of Leadenhall Market’s Victorian windows ready to catch visitors unawares, as part of the iconic Market’s 700-year anniversary Halloween celebrations.
The monster six metre appendages appeared today in the run-up to Halloween – in time for half term – alongside a family treasure hunt, a Museum of London pop up and a new series of atmospheric walks around the cobbled walkways, run by City of London guides.
Treasure Hunt and Book Nook: Parents looking for half term inspiration can download a self-guided treasure hunt from the Leadenhall Market website – spotting hidden secrets within Leadenhall Market’s stunning architecture in return for a £5 gift card from Waterstones in the Market. Halloween themed books are also available in the two new book nooks placed in the market – visitors can rest, read and then return the books for others to enjoy.
Museum of London’s Windows into History: As part of the Leadenhall 700 celebrations, the Museum of London are taking over the windows of 43 –45 Leadenhall Market from today to give visitors an insight into iconic moments from Leadenhall’s history. From alternative currencies to royal proclamations, discover 4 objects from the museum’s collection that highlight life at the market over the past seven centuries.
City of London Guided Walks: As the days draw in, Leadenhall Market’s dark side will be revealed in the ‘Burials, Bombs and Fantastic Beasts’ walking tours, taking place on Wednesday 20th and 27th from 6.30pm – 8pm. Although Leadenhall Market itself dates back to 1321, there have been people living and working in this area since Roman times and the walks will explore some of their sinister history – with witchcraft, murder and death at almost every turn. Tickets need to be booked in advance and are available at the subsidised price of £7 (plus fees) from Eventbrite.
2021 marks the 700th anniversary of Leadenhall Market, which dates back to 1321 and is situated in what was the centre of Roman London. Located in the centre of the City of London’s financial district, the market was originally a meat, poultry and game market but is now home to 35 boutique retailers, restaurants, cafes, wine bars and an award-winning pub, The Lamb Tavern.
For more details on how Leadenhall Market will be celebrating its 700th anniversary this year, visit www.leadenhallmarket.co.uk. Visitors to the market – past and present – are being asked to share memories via the Market’s social channels using #Leadenhall700 @LeadenhallMkt.