Unable to pass some rather surly-looking builders I took a detour through the Dickens Estate. Part of Micawber House had been transformed into the Prince of Wales pub. Bottle green painted brick work and red lanterns. A tiny place with a normal front door closed to the public. A note in the window reminded patrons that after 7pm under 18s have to leave.

Nicklebey House sports a plaque to Tommy Steele, OBE. Entertainer. Born in Bermondsey and voted for by the people.


Much closer to St Saviours Dock and Tower Bridge I came across houseboats stranded in the mud. Did I know they were there? Had I forgotten about them or just never seen them before? Coverings of plants, tyres and bin bags. A brown paper sack that I wanted to be a fat ginger tom cat.