Sex & the 18th-Century City (and Dr Johnson)...
- drjohnsonshouse
- Feb 19
- 1 min read

Thursday 11 September
6pm - 8pm
£33.50
Join us for a lively and immersive introduction to the sex trade in Georgian London!
…Many a beau without a shilling,
Many a widow not unwilling;
Many a bargain, if you strike it:
This is London! How d'ye like it?”
(John Bancks, 1700s)
Join us for a lively and immersive introduction to the sex trade in Georgian London!
Dr Samuel Johnson lived in London at a very interesting time. In the 18th century, at the height of the British Empire, the sex trade thrived on the dark underbelly of the city's streets. And Dr Johnson knew ALL about it.
Through theatrical storytelling combined with a historical lecture, Maria Beadell, of Herstorical Tours, brings to life the sordid world of the sex trade in 1700s London and Dr Johnson's involvement in the industry. Comparing the sex trade in Georgian times with that of today, she asks, has it changed?
You can expect an entertaining evening during which you will also meet a famed courtesan and friend of Dr Johnson in person. She will be welcoming you to his house and giving a short performance prior to Maria's talk.
Limited capacity. Early booking advised.
Tickets include welcome drink and a chance to view Dr Johnson's House.

Accessibility
There is regrettably no step-free access to Dr Johnson's House.
There are seven steps to access the entrance (with a handrail).
The building is a four-storey townhouse with a staircase between each floor.
There are handrails on each side of the staircase and visitor seating in every room.
Toilets are located down a steep set of stairs.