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The Stationers' Company
The City of London Livery Company for the Communications and Content Industries

'Banned and Censored: Stories they didn't want you to read' Walking Tour

Monday, 13 October 2025

Tickets: £20
Tour Meeting Point: Barbican Station
Time: 10:45 AM for a prompt start at 11.00 AM

Banned and Censored: Stories they didn’t want you to read

When the printing press was invented in the 15th century, the world changed for ever. Ideas, once fringe and clandestine, could spread and proliferate and readers could be educated, entertained, scandalised. For the powers-that-be it represented a threat, a potential weapon to be kept tightly under control. 

On this walking tour, Stationer Joanna Bevan, a  professional London tour guide, will guide you around 500 years of banned and censored stories. From the hellfire of Christian doctrine to the super injunctions of the super wealthy she will turn the pages on the stories they didn’t want you to read.

The tour will reach a rewarding climax at Stationers’ Hall where archivist Ruth Frendo will present a rare opportunity to see some fascinating items from the Company’s past.

Meet outside Barbican Station at 11am. Estimated finish 1pm at Stationers Hall. The walk does involve some climbing of steps.

Tickets cost £20 a head with all proceeds going to the Hall charity. Places are strictly limited so early booking is advised.

Dress Code: Smart Casual. As it is a walking tour, comfortable shoes and appropriate outdoor clothing are recommended.

'Banned and Censored: Stories they didn't want you to read' Walking Tour