A guided historical walk through the East End of London

Walk the streets where the East End of London stood against fascism

Discover what happened on 4 October 1936, when communities across London's East End came together during the Battle of Cable Street.

  • 2.5 hour guided walk
  • £20 per person
  • Central East London
  • Maximum 25 guests

The story beneath the streets

Discover one of the defining events in East End history

On 4 October 1936, Oswald Mosley's British Union of Fascists planned to march through an area with a large immigrant population made up of Jews, Irish and others. Thousands of local residents, trade unionists, political activists and other anti-fascist protesters gathered in response.

This research-led walking tour explores the streets in which those events unfolded. It places the battle within the wider story of migration, poverty, politics, policing and community life in London's East End.

Rather than presenting the battle as an isolated moment, the tour considers the people involved, the choices they faced and the arguments that continue around its legacy. It also covers the tactics used by the different sides, and how the fortunes of the day twisted and turned.

What makes this tour different?

History rooted in real places and human stories

The tour connects the political events of 1936 with the lives and neighbourhoods that shaped them. It brings the conflict to life through revealing the details of the battle itself: the people, the terrain, and the tactics.

Stand where events unfolded

Follow the route through Aldgate, Whitechapel and Cable Street while examining how the area's geography influenced the confrontation.

Meet the East End communities

Explore Jewish migration, working-class life and the alliances formed by residents, activists and trade unionists.

Examine the difficult questions

Consider competing interpretations of the battle, the role of the police and the event's place in Britain's anti-fascist history.

Along the route

What you'll see and explore

  1. Aldgate and Whitechapel The political and social landscape of the East End before 1936.
  2. Sites of anti-fascist organising The people and organisations that mobilised to oppose fascism.
  3. The Cable Street confrontation How barricades, crowds and police movements shaped the events of the day.
  4. Jewish East End history The migration, institutions and everyday experiences of the area's Jewish communities.
  5. The Cable Street mural How later generations commemorated and interpreted the battle.

Upcoming public walks

Book your Cable Street tour

Public tours are suitable for individual visitors, couples, families and small groups. Advance booking is recommended because group sizes are limited.

Duration
2.5 hours
Group size
Maximum 25
Meeting point
Near Tower Hill tube station
Language
English

£20 per person

Select your preferred date and reserve your place through the secure booking page.

View dates and book

Full refunds are available for cancellations made at least 48 hours before the scheduled start time.

Guest feedback

Reviews from our guests

A selection of recent reviews from Tripadvisor and Google.

5.0 ★★★★★

Based on 9 Tripadvisor reviews

Read all reviews on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

Cable Street Tour

Really enjoyed this walk, it was a well put together tour with good knowledge of this huge event in the history of anti fascist direct action. Glad we went.
Phillip V
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

In depth Battle of Cable Street tour

Adam is am amazing guide with extensive knowledge of the History of Cable Street and what led up to this pivotal moment.

Thoroughly recommend this tour.

Hazel C
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

Informative and enjoyable tour

PA very interesting and enjoyable tour with a well-informed guide.
trevorberkley
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

A must do tour if you care about antisemitism

A really interesting and enlightening tour given by Adam. So informative, we felt like we were there in 1936. A stark warning especially in today’s world where what happened so long ago is now being hijacked by those with an antisemitic agenda. So glad we did it.
Simon G
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

Engaging and educational

Great experience with Adam. He really knows his stuff and kept things engaging throughout. I already knew a little about Cable Street before going, but learned so much more on this tour. Highly recommend checking it out!
Pathfinder310999
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

Wonderfully interesting insight into the Cable Street riots and the old East End

A really engaging and interesting history of East London and the events leading up to and during the Cable Street riots. Although the area has changed so much, Adam was able to showcase existing architecture and add vivid detail making it easy to visualise what the area would have been like and the challenges for the people living there. A brilliant reminder of communities standing together against fascism and racism which sadly still holds much relevancy today.
Roving599458
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

Battle of Cable Street

What a wonderful 3 hours! Adam you were so concise, knowledgeable and entertaining! Thoroughly enjoyed it! If anyone is considering the walk go for it!!

👏👍

Rosalind A
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

Highly recommended

Brilliant tour. I came away understanding so much more about this piece of history. Great tour leader too!
8775824
Read this review on Tripadvisor
★★★★★

A great experience

A extremely knowledgeable guide presented the tour in a friendly and enjoyable way. I highly recommend it.
Arby A
Read this review on Tripadvisor
5.0 ★★★★★

Based on 5 Google reviews

Read all reviews on Google
★★★★★
We had an excellent guided tour around the whole area. Our Guide Adam was very knowledgeable and really knew his subject. I can highly recommend recommend this tour.
Ivan Silverstein
Read this review on Google
★★★★★

Went on the tour yesterday and it was really good and informative. Adam has really researched his subject and delivered his talk in a friendly manner.

Thank you

Malcolm Shaffron
Read this review on Google
★★★★★
Great knowledge of the history of a fascinating part of the London and National story of anti-fascist action. The time flew by and really glad we went.
Philip Vaughan
Read this review on Google
★★★★★

Battle of Cable Street. We went 16/8/2026.

Adam was an amazing, informative, amusing knowledgeable guide. So enjoyed the tour including 17 year old grandson! Saw the very building where his great grandpa lived as a boy. Very moving although now it is Papa Johns pizza! Anyone considering joining the trip 'go for it'! 👍😁
Rosalind Arnold
Read this review on Google
★★★★★
A must do tour revealing more than you could ever look up online. The depth of knowledge and understanding of the subject by our guide was impressive and I would highly recommend to anyone interested in the history of London and antifascism more broadly!
Ben Ryrie
Read this review on Google

Before your visit

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly does the tour begin?

The meeting point is near Tower Hill tube station. The precise location, map and guide contact details are provided in your booking confirmation email.

Is the walk accessible?

Most of the route follows public pavements. However, pavement widths, crossings, kerbs and temporary street works may affect accessibility. Please email before booking to discuss your requirements.

How far will we walk?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and covers about two miles.

What happens if it rains?

Tours normally continue in wet weather. Please check the forecast and bring suitable clothing and footwear. Guests will be contacted if severe conditions require cancellation.

Is the tour suitable for children?

The tour is most suitable for adults and older children with an interest in history. Some themes include fascism, antisemitism, political violence and policing.

Can I arrange a private or educational tour?

Yes. Private tours may be available for schools, universities, trade unions, community organisations and other groups. Email info@battleofcablestreettours.com with your preferred date and approximate group size.

What is the cancellation policy?

Full refunds are available for cancellations made at least 48 hours before the scheduled start time. Bookings cancelled later may be non-refundable.

Planning a private group visit?

Ask about private, school, university and organisational tours.

Enquire by email