Dirty work in Berkhamsted: from arsenic mixer to pesthouse keeper
The Rex outside the Gatsby, High Street, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 2BT
Jobs in Berkhamsted included the above, plus straw plaiting and picking watercress to keep the wolf from the door. Others were collecting leeches, dragging coal to the gasworks or unloading the manure boats fresh from London. There was dirty work to be done in Berkhamsted. Come along and discover more on a family friendly walk along the the high street, exploring centuries of gore, grime and poor work-life balance, led by former BBC History producer Dan Parry.
Timings
- Friday 11 September:
- 10.00am
- Saturday 12 September:
- 9.30am
- Friday 18 September:
- 10.00am
Location & directions
The Rex outside the Gatsby, High Street, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 2BT
- Directions:
- The Group should meet outside the front of the Rex cinema in front of the Gatsby restaurant. Stout walking shoes should be worn. This is a family friendly walk.
- Contact on day:
- Sandra Jenkins
- Telephone number:
- +447942321901
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Book via Eventbrite uk 11 Sept - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1989788354532
- Booking website:
- https://www.eventbrite.co.uk
- Booking opens:
- 17 Aug 2026 09:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 17 Sep 2026 05:00 PM
Accessibility details
There will be a lot of walking on narrow pavements and by busy roads. Attendees should take care when crossing busy roads and beware the pavements will have other pedestrians and shoppers using them.
Additional information
The walk will take place along busy streets. Participants should be aware that some pavements are narrow. Stout walking shoes are recommended. There is little on street parking close to the Rex but there is a multi-storey car park down Lower Kings Road, a few minutes walk away.
- Max number of people:
- 15
- Estimated duration:
- 1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)
