Every now and then you come across some little historic gem in London and this is one of the best with small cottages backdropped by the Tate Modern.
The small cottages look rather out of place in front of the giant glass and steel structure of the Tate Modern, but the almshouses are they’re known were there well before anyone even thought of building more than 2 stories high.
Originally built with money from wealthy fishmonger, Charles Hopton, the houses were to house 26 poor men of Southwark in London. Each man would receive housing, a chaldron of coals and a payment of not less than £6 a year. Apparently a chaldron is roughly a horse and cart’s worth.
Today the houses are still available for men who’ve worked in Southwark for more than 3 years, although they are allowed to bring their wives.
Thanks to Ian Visits Blog for the details on the Almshouses.
More Southwark Links:
Southwark visitor attractions
Hotels in Southwark, London
