An Islington Local History Centre lunchtime talk
Join archivists from Islington Local History Centre to plunge into Clerkenwell’s history – ranging from the sacred to the profane. Focusing on two locales, the Clerks’ Well and Islington Spa, you will have the opportunity to view maps and archival material that tell the story of these aquatic sites of significance.
The Clerks’ Well, an ancient holy well that gave the area its name, dates to at least the 12th century. Used by biblical performers, nuns and members of the public, the well supplied fresh water to the area for hundreds of years. It suffered from contamination and was closed in the 19th century until its rediscovery in 1924.
Initially a rural retreat from the City of London, Islington Spa was built around an ancient well-spring and became a health resort and pleasure garden in the late 17th century. Famed for its medicinal waters, Islington Spa became a fashionable spot for entertainment and music, but also developed a reputation for debauchery.
Through examining historical maps and archival material, we will chart the development of Clerkenwell and its watery past.
Doors will open at 1pm and the talk will take place at 1:10-1:50pm. Our lunchtime talks are designed to fit into a lunchbreak, offering a snapshot of Islington’s fascinating history with enough time to return to your desk for the afternoon. This talk will feature a showcase of original archive material, so please do not bring food or drink with you to the event.
This event is being held in conjunction with Islington Museum’s temporary exhibition ‘Undercurrent: Islington’s Lost Waterways’, on display until 19 August 2025. Islington Museum is located at 245 St John St., EC1V 4NB.
You can find accessibility information for 245 St John Street here.
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