Executions
Exploring how public executions shaped Londoners’ lives and the city’s landscape in a major exhibition
Public executions were a major part of Londoners’ lives for centuries.
From Smithfield to Southwark, from Banqueting House to Newgate Prison, executions became embedded in London’s landscape from the 12th century right through to the 19th. Even today, hints of this uncomfortable past can still be seen across the capital.
The Museum of London Docklands brought the rarely told and often tragic human stories behind these events to a new exhibition. Executions showcased a range of fascinating objects, paintings and projections, including the vest said to have been worn by King Charles I when he was executed, a recreation of the Tyburn gallows with an immersive projection, last letters of the condemned, and much more. Many of the items on display had rarely been seen in public.
Watch: exhibition highlights
Explore the exhibition through our mini documentaries, which take a look at some of the key objects which were on display and shed light on London's dark history.
“Sensitive, sobering, and absolutely fascinating”
Londonist
“It's a spectacular exhibition, I really do recommend it”
Times Radio
“Museum of London Docklands brings this grisly part of British history to public attention with great sensitivity.”
London Planner
