The hidden occult history of South London has been discovered in this revealing Spooky Isles -Podcast with author and folkloric David Turnbull
In the Last episode of the podcast from Spooky IslesWriter, folkloric and local guide David Turnbull agrees with editor David Saunderson to explore the fascinating – and often hair -raising – history of Lambeth and South London.
Turnbull, who has contributed many great articles to ghostly islands in the past two years, brings for decades of research and personal experience into the discussion. A resident of Lambeth Since 1977 he offers a unique perspective on the hidden stories of the area.
“Many tourists only see the other side of the river – Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square – but there is plenty to be found south of the river,” Turnbull explains. “Many interesting places, many interesting moments in history – and some really fascinating people who are connected to the South Bank and beyond.”
The episode dives in various local locations, starting with St Mary’s Church and Churchyard, now the Garden Museum. The church dates from the Norman conquest and is steeped in folklore.
“It was donated in 1972,” says Turnbull. “But horror fans may recognize it – it doubled like an Italian monastery in The Omen (1976).”
The cemetery also contains the grave of Simon Forman, a controversial Elizabian astrologer and occultist. “He believed in the magical skills of his dreams,” Turnbull notes. “He used them to determine when they should send letters, visit friends – or even find missing socks.”
Another local highlight is Lambeth Palace Library. Built just before the Covid -Lockdown, it now houses one of the most important collections of occult material in the UK. Among the rarest items is the fear and confession of three notorious witches (1589), with details about the process and the performance of three men – ironically, all called John.
Turnbull also draws connections between Lambeth and literary figures inspired by the occult, including William Blake and Austin Osman -Reserve.
“There is a grain of sand in Lambeth that Satan cannot find,” quotes Blake Turnbull. “That is an ominous line, and a good example of how deep the mystical runs through this part of London.”
The episode also delves into the curious ties between occultist Aleister Crowley and writers such as Dennis Wheatley and W. Somerset Maugham, who both used him as inspiration for fictional villains.
The podcast will be concluded with Turnbull who discussed its guided walks and upcoming book The Hurdy-Gurdy Man, a dark comic horror in London in London. “There is a little horror, cannibalism and class warfare,” he says with a grin. “There is really something for everyone.”
Listen to David Turnbull interview on the YouTube of Spooky Isles
Have you investigated the spooky history of Lambeth? Share your favorite Legend in South Londs in the comments!
