At WatchHouse, we proudly celebrate the rich heritage of Bermondsey, a neighbourhood steeped in history and stories that stretch back centuries. We’re excited to share two in-depth resources that explore the history of St. Mary Magdalen's Church and its famous Watch House, providing a glimpse into Bermondsey's past, curated by Hugh Keyte, a beloved local resident and historian.

The History of St. Mary Magdalen’s Church and Watch House

In this historical essay, Hugh Keyte traces the evolution of St. Mary Magdalen’s Church from its 13th-century origins through its many architectural transformations. Key highlights include:

• The reconstruction of the church’s eastern tower and the replacement of its classical façade in the Georgian Gothic style.
• An in-depth look at the Watch House, built in 1821, and its role in local law enforcement, including its connection to grave-robbing fears during the Burke and Hare scandal.

This essay provides a fascinating journey through the local history of Bermondsey and the critical role that St. Mary Magdalen’s Church played in the community.

Download the full essay here.

Bermondsey Historical Poster

In addition to the essay, Hugh Keyte has created a visual poster illustrating significant moments in Bermondsey’s history. From architectural drawings of the church’s evolving façade to historical depictions of the Watch House and Charnel House, this poster is a visually compelling companion to the historical text.

Download the poster here.

About Hugh Keyte

Hugh Keyte has been a dedicated patron of WatchHouse since it first opened its doors in Bermondsey. A local resident, Hugh is a renowned musicologist with an impressive career that includes lecturing at Bristol University, producing for BBC Radio 3, and restoring complex multi-choir works by Giovanni Gabrieli for prestigious choirs such as King's College, Cambridge, and I Fagiolini. His passion for history and music is deeply rooted in Bermondsey, and he will be sharing his knowledge and insights at the upcoming Bermondsey Festival.

Come join us at WatchHouse to explore the deep connection between Bermondsey’s past and present, and don’t miss Hugh Keyte’s upcoming talk at the Bermondsey Festival, where he will delve into these historical topics in even greater detail.