Explore Frome’s dark history on a 90-minute guided tour. Discover crime sites, infamous robberies, and local villains with historian David Lassman.
- St John the Baptist Church - St. John’s Church (Bath Street) The history of the town is explored, including the founding of the original Saxon church, which aimed to ‘reform’ the outlaws and criminals hiding in Selwood Forest. The establishment of Frome’s first professional police force in 1856 is also covered, along with a visit to the ‘blind house’ – the town’s original lock-up. Additionally, the religious rebels of the seventeenth century, the rise of non-conformity in the town, and the vicar who authored one of the most influential books on witchcraft, indirectly leading to the Salem Witch Trials in America, are discussed.
- Experienced personal guide
- Gratuities
Inspired by the books Foul Deeds and Suspicious Deaths in and Around Frome and The Awful Killing of Sarah Watts, this walk starts at the aptly named Justice Lane and uncovers the darker history of this Somerset market town. Explore the scenes of deadly crimes and notorious robberies, discover the evolution of policing from parish constables to the town’s own police force, and trace the paths of infamous local criminals, including the notorious Maggs-Sparrow gang and Frome Bob.
Guided by local historian and author David Lassman, this 90-minute walk offers a fascinating journey into the town’s past.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
