Macabre London

Macabre London Podcast
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Jul 29, 2025 • 32min

Before Jack: Police Investigate Whitechapel’s First Two Murders

Before Jack: Police Investigate Whitechapel’s First Two MurdersJoin Macabre London for a chilling prelude to the infamous Jack the Ripper saga. In this episode, we uncover the first two Whitechapel murders—Emma Elizabeth Smith and Martha Tabram—long before the canonical five claimed global attention. Discover how H Division detectives responded to these brutal cases, the investigative methods of 1888, and why these early murders were initially overlooked in the Ripper narrative.🔎 Key Topics Covered:The murders of Emma Smith (April 1888) and Martha Tabram (August 1888)—linked in CID records but not officially part of the canonical fiveHow Mary Ann Nichols, Annie Chapman, and others later aligned with distinctive Ripper-style mutilationVictorian policing tactics, forensic limitations, and the rise of sensational press coverageExpect gripping narrative, rich historical context, and suspense that builds toward the infamous “Double Event”—the murders of Elizabeth Stride and Catherine Eddowes on 30 September 1888 If you’re obsessed with true crime, Victorian history, or the roots of Jack the Ripper, this deep dive is your perfect start. Subscribe for more ghostly histories from London's darker side.🔔 Subscribe for more chilling tales from London’s dark past.Todays episode is sponsored by Jeff Wayne's The War Of The Worlds The Immersive Experience - www.waroftheworldsimmersive.com - to get your special discount code of £10 off any two or more tickets purchased. Use the code: MACABRE10------------------------🔪 If you love British true crime, unsolved mysteries, and historical murders, don’t miss this episode!Also available wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/macabrelondon-------------------------Be sure to check out my other podcast, Killers, Cults & Queens https://podfollow.com/queens---------------------------SUPPORT ME————————ONE OFF DONATIONS: Paypal - paypal.me/macabrelondonKO-FI: ko-fi.com/macabrelondonPATREON: www.patreon.com/macabrelondonAMAZON WISHLIST - https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/...MERCH! - https://macabrelondon-shop.fourthwall.com——————————-Thank you to our executive producer patrons - Christina, Heathers Leg, Lisa, Mary, Matilda, Ravelle, Sally, Sam, Sarah, Sarah A, Terri & VeronicaAnd to all of our wonderful £5 tier patrons...AmyAndreaAndrewBoudiccaClaire RClaire SCreepy PaperDavid RDeniseHelenIngeJoJTKathrynKellyKyleeLindalLizShannonStephThe Paranormal PrincessVeeZozoLAMAnd thanks to all other patrons too!————————SOCIAL MEDIA---------------------------------------------Insta: @nikkimacabrelondonX: @macabrelondonTikTok: @macabrelondonFacebook: @macabrelondonEmail: macabrelondon@hotmail.com---------------------------------------------Sources:https://www.quakersintheworld.org/quakers-in-action/13/Elizabeth-Fryhttps://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofEngland/Bloody-Code-History/http://www.policehistory.com/early.htmlhttps://www.theguardian.com/news/1830/nov/13/mainsection.fromthearchivehttps://web.archive.org/web/20031013215527/http://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/v3/about/history/vicpolice/bow.htm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Jul 15, 2025 • 30min

Eating 1000 Oysters Without Paying! Edward Dando - The Dine & Dash King of London

Edward Dando wasn’t your average thief—he was a man possessed by an unrelenting hunger for oysters… and a complete disregard for paying the bill.In this episode of Macabre Mini Mysteries from Macabre London, we explore the life and crimes of Edward Dando: the Regency glutton who scandalised polite society by stealing and devouring shocking amounts of shellfish.Discover why oysters were once cheaper than chips, how Dando became a curious celebrity in London’s courts, and the sad truth behind his unstoppable appetite.For lovers of strange true crime, forgotten history, and the darker corners of London’s past, this is one feast you won’t want to miss.Subscribe now and join us each week for more mini mysteries from the heart of London’s macabre history.Todays episode is sponsored by Wolf Escape Games www.wolfescapegames.com - to get your special discount code of 30% off any purchase use the code: MACABRE30------------------------🔪 If you love British true crime, unsolved mysteries, and historical murders, don’t miss this episode!Also available wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/macabrelondon-------------------------Be sure to check out my other podcast, Killers, Cults & Queens https://podfollow.com/queens---------------------------SUPPORT ME————————ONE OFF DONATIONS: Paypal - paypal.me/macabrelondonKO-FI: ko-fi.com/macabrelondonPATREON: www.patreon.com/macabrelondonAMAZON WISHLIST - https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/...MERCH! - https://macabrelondon-shop.fourthwall...——————————-Thank you to our executive producer patrons - Christina, Heathers Leg, Lisa, Mary, Matilda, Ravelle, Sally, Sam, Sarah, Terri & VeronicaAnd to all of our wonderful £5 tier patrons...AmyAndreaAndrewBoudiccaClaire RClaire SCreepy PaperDavid RDeniseHelenIngeJoJTKathrynKellyKyleeLindalLizShannonStephThe Paranormal PrincessVeeZozoLAMAnd thanks to all other patrons too!————————SOCIAL MEDIA---------------------------------------------Insta: @nikkimacabrelondonX: @macabrelondonTikTok: @macabrelondonFacebook: @macabrelondonEmail: macabrelondon@hotmail.com---------------------------------------------Sources:Weekly Times (London) - Sunday 02 September 1832https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Dandohttps://www.reddit.com/r/todayilearned/comments/11t90bm/til_edward_dando_was_a_legendary_thief_known_for/https://archive.org/details/blackwoodsmagazi88edinuoft/page/617/mode/1uphttps://archive.org/details/lettersofcharles00dickiala/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Jul 1, 2025 • 28min

London’s First Policemen Were Drunk, Violent… and Hated | Crime & Punishment in the Capital City

Before the crisp uniforms and community smiles, London’s very first police officers were anything but respectable. In this episode of Macabre London, we uncover the outrageous early days of the Met — when public trust was low, tempers were high, and a night on the beat often ended in a fight outside the pub.From riotous mobs to internal corruption, discover how Britain’s most iconic police force was built by brawlers, not by-the-book officers.We look into the horrifying bloody code years, the 200 offences you could be hanged for and the tireless work of Elizabeth Fry and Robert Peel to reform not only prisons but also to try and establish a police force. Before the crisp uniforms and community smiles, London’s very first police officers were anything but respectable. In this episode of Macabre London, we uncover the outrageous early days of the Met — when public trust was low, tempers were high, and a night on the beat often ended in a bar fight.From riotous mobs to internal corruption, discover how Britain’s most iconic police force was built by brawlers, not by-the-book officers.🔔 Subscribe for more chilling tales from London’s dark past.Todays episode is sponsored by Wolf Escape Games www.wolfescapegames.com - to get your special discount code of 30% off any purchase use the code: MACABRE30------------------------🔪 If you love British true crime, unsolved mysteries, and historical murders, don’t miss this episode!Also available wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/macabrelondon-------------------------Be sure to check out my other podcast, Killers, Cults & Queens https://podfollow.com/queens---------------------------SUPPORT ME————————ONE OFF DONATIONS: Paypal - paypal.me/macabrelondonKO-FI: ko-fi.com/macabrelondonPATREON: www.patreon.com/macabrelondonAMAZON WISHLIST - https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/...MERCH! - https://macabrelondon-shop.fourthwall...——————————-Thank you to our executive producer patrons - Christina, Heathers Leg, Lisa, Mary, Matilda, Ravelle, Sally, Sam, Sarah, Sarah A, Terri & VeronicaAnd to all of our wonderful £5 tier patrons...AmyAndreaAndrewBoudiccaClaire RClaire SCreepy PaperDavid RDeniseHelenIngeJoJTKathrynKellyKyleeLindalLizShannonStephThe Paranormal PrincessVeeZozoLAMAnd thanks to all other patrons too!————————SOCIAL MEDIA---------------------------------------------Insta: @nikkimacabrelondonX: @macabrelondonTikTok: @macabrelondonFacebook: @macabrelondonEmail: macabrelondon@hotmail.com---------------------------------------------Sources:https://www.quakersintheworld.org/quakers-in-action/13/Elizabeth-Fryhttps://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofEngland/Bloody-Code-History/http://www.policehistory.com/early.htmlhttps://www.theguardian.com/news/1830/nov/13/mainsection.fromthearchiveMore available on request Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Jun 17, 2025 • 31min

Crushed by The Rocket: The Death and Haunting of William Huskisson

In 1828, the first passenger railway marked a monumental occasion, but it quickly turned tragic when William Huskisson became its first casualty, crushed in a horrific accident. His death sparked rumors of hauntings along the railway, intertwining tragedy with ghostly lore. The podcast delves into the societal impacts of the Industrial Revolution and the unforeseen consequences of technological advancements, exploring how progress sometimes comes with a chilling price. A captivating blend of history and mystery awaits!
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Jun 3, 2025 • 31min

London's First Police Force Was a Gang?! | The Dark History of the Bow Street Runners

Explore the chaotic beginnings of London's first police force, the Bow Street Runners, formed amid rampant crime in the 18th century. These rough-and-tumble individuals blurred the lines between justice and disorder while often indulging in drink and violence. Led by an eccentric magistrate, their wild antics raised eyebrows as they laid the groundwork for modern policing. Were they heroes, hooligans, or something more complex? Delve into their fascinating story and the challenges they faced in a lawless environment.
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May 6, 2025 • 29min

The Chevalier d'Éon: History’s First Trans Spy and Master of Disguise

In this episode of Macabre London, we uncover the astonishing true story of the Chevalier d'Éon — a master spy, decorated soldier, and diplomat in 18th century France who became one of the first openly transgender or gender-nonconforming public figures in recorded history.D'Éon led a double life in the shadowy world of Louis XV’s secret intelligence network, using diplomacy, disguise, and blackmail to survive the cutthroat politics of the French royal court. After years of military service and espionage, d’Éon stunned the world by publicly presenting as a woman — sparking international intrigue and political scandal.But was this a revolutionary act of gender expression, or a carefully calculated move to protect royal secrets?Join me as I explore D’Éon’s incredible life — from fencing duels and spy missions across Europe, to a post-mortem discovery that left Victorian London reeling. With themes of identity, survival, and political manipulation, this episode delves deep into one of history’s most fascinating and misunderstood figures.Todays episode is sponsored by London Nootropics. Be sure to check them out at www.londonnootropics.com and use my code "MACABRE" for 20% off your order or subscription. ------------------------🔪 If you love British true crime, unsolved mysteries, and historical murders, don’t miss this episode!Also available wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/macabrelondon-------------------------Be sure to check out my other podcast, Killers, Cults & Queens https://podfollow.com/queens---------------------------SUPPORT ME————————ONE OFF DONATIONS: Paypal - paypal.me/macabrelondonKO-FI: ko-fi.com/macabrelondonPATREON: www.patreon.com/macabrelondonAMAZON WISHLIST - https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/...MERCH! - https://macabrelondon-shop.fourthwall...——————————-Thank you to our executive producer patrons - Christina, Heathers Leg, Lisa, Mary, Matilda, Ravelle, Sally, Sam, Sarah, Sarah A, Terri & VeronicaAnd to all of our wonderful £5 tier patrons...AmyAndreaAndrewBoudiccaClaire RClaire SCreepy PaperDavid RDeniseHelenIngeJoJTKathrynKellyKyleeLindalLizShannonStephThe Paranormal PrincessVeeZozoLAMAnd thanks to all other patrons too!————————SOCIAL MEDIA---------------------------------------------Insta: @nikkimacabrelondonX: @macabrelondonTikTok: @macabrelondonFacebook: @macabrelondonEmail: macabrelondon@hotmail.com---------------------------------------------Sources:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevali%C3%A8re_d%27%C3%89onhttps://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/the-incredible-chevalier-deon-who-left-france-as-a-male-spy-and-returned-as-a-christian-womanhttps://royalarmouries.org/objects-and-stories/stories/the-amazing-life-of-chevaliere-deonhttps://www.bbc.co.uk/reel/video/p0bzwxqy/the-chevalier-d-on-the-18th-century-transgender-spy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Apr 22, 2025 • 29min

Why You Could Legally Kill Criminals in Old London! Crime & Punishment in London

Before London had the Met, it had chaos.In this episode of Macabre London, we uncover the strange and often deadly story of how policing began in the city—from the drunken "Charlies" who fell asleep on the job, to the terrifyingly informal Hue and Cry system that let ordinary citizens legally execute criminals on sight. And let's not forget Jonathan Wild: the man who invented organised crime while pretending to be its biggest enemy.Join me as we dig into the murky underworld of Georgian crime, shady law enforcement, the wilderness years of the gin craze and how all of this laid the foundation for modern policing... even if that foundation was built on fear, corruption, and a lot of laudanum.Todays episode is sponsored by London Nootropics. Be sure to check them out at www.londonnootropics.com and use my code "MACABRE" for 20% off your order or subscription. #MacabreLondon #TrueCrime #HistoryPodcast #LondonHistory #GeorgianCrime #PoliceHistory #DarkHistory #JonathanWild #TyburnTree ------------------------🔪 If you love British true crime, unsolved mysteries, and historical murders, don’t miss this episode!Also available wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/macabrelondon-------------------------Be sure to check out my other podcast, Killers, Cults & Queens https://podfollow.com/queens---------------------------SUPPORT ME————————ONE OFF DONATIONS: Paypal - paypal.me/macabrelondonKO-FI: ko-fi.com/macabrelondonPATREON: www.patreon.com/macabrelondonAMAZON WISHLIST - https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/...MERCH! - https://macabrelondon-shop.fourthwall...——————————-Thank you to our executive producer patrons - Christina, Heathers Leg, Lisa, Mary, Matilda, Ravelle, Sally, Sam, Sarah, Sarah A, Terri & VeronicaAnd to all of our wonderful £5 tier patrons...AmyAndreaAndrewBoudiccaClaire RClaire SCreepy PaperDavid RDeniseHelenIngeJoJTKathrynKellyKyleeLindalLizShannonStephThe Paranormal PrincessVeeZozoLAMAnd thanks to all other patrons too!————————SOCIAL MEDIA---------------------------------------------Insta: @nikkimacabrelondonX: @macabrelondonTikTok: @macabrelondonFacebook: @macabrelondonEmail: macabrelondon@hotmail.com---------------------------------------------Sources: https://www.britannica.com/topic/hue-and-cryhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hue_and_cryhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_de_Veilhttps://thebathmagazine.co.uk/history-the-watchmans-sentry-box/https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LqTFxpVXMVbtBTZuQoCQxt8S-hfNWSfBJgNiJHtm7m0/edit?tab=t.0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Apr 11, 2025 • 40sec

Macabre London Presents: Killers, Cults & Queens is BACK – Season 3 Premieres April 14th!

True crime lovers, horror fans, and mystery addicts – it’s time to get spooky! Join Nikki and Cheryl as they return for another chilling season of Killers, Cults & Queens! This season, we’re diving deeper into the most twisted cult leaders, infamous serial killers, and bizarre conspiracy theories you won’t believe. From historic slashers to the murderer next door, expect shocking stories, eerie surprises, and spine-tingling twists. AND we've got plenty of new surprises for you... you won't want to miss it. You can listen on Global Player, download it from the app store or go to globalplayer.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Mar 25, 2025 • 34min

Who Was the Croydon Poisoner – And Why Were They Never Caught?

☠️ Poisoned to Death in Plain Sight – Who Was The Croydon Poisoner? 💀In the 1920s, an unknown killer stalked the quiet streets of Croydon, leaving a deadly trail of poisoned victims in their wake. But who was behind these sinister tea-time murders? Was it an elusive criminal mastermind, or did police completely miss the real killer who may have just been a little closer to home? Join me on Macabre London as we uncover the twisted tale of The Croydon Poisoner—one of Britain’s most chilling unsolved mysteries.🔪 If you love British true crime, unsolved mysteries, and historical murders, don’t miss this episode!📺 Watch the full video on YouTube! https://youtu.be/ISEPyavv6P4 -------------------------Be sure to check out my other podcast, Killers, Cults & Queens https://podfollow.com/queens---------------------------SUPPORT ME————————ONE OFF DONATIONS: Paypal - paypal.me/macabrelondonKO-FI: ko-fi.com/macabrelondonPATREON: www.patreon.com/macabrelondonAMAZON WISHLIST - https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/...MERCH! - https://macabrelondon-shop.fourthwall...——————————-Thank you to our executive producer patrons - Christina, Christophe, Heathers Leg, Lisa, Mary, Matilda, Ravelle, Sally, Sam, Sarah, Terri & VeronicaAnd to all of our wonderful £5 tier patrons...AmyAndreaAndrewBoudiccaClaire RClaire SCreepy PaperDavid RDeniseHelenIngeJoJTKathrynKellyKyleeLindalLizShannonStephThe Paranormal PrincessVeeZozoLAMAnd thanks to all other patrons too!————————SOCIAL MEDIA---------------------------------------------Insta: @nikkimacabrelondonX: @macabrelondonTikTok: @macabrelondonFacebook: @macabrelondonEmail: macabrelondon@hotmail.com---------------------------------------------Sources: https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/53486769https://agathachristie.fandom.com/wiki/The_Tragic_Family_of_Croydonhttp://www.unsolved-murders.co.uk/murder-content.php?key=1449&termRef=Violet%20Emelia%20Sidneyhttp://strangeco.blogspot.com/2019/04/death-visits-birdhurst-rise-or-why-its.htmlhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8QQSR4uN3w#TrueCrime #UnsolvedMystery #MacabreLondon #CroydonPoisoner #UKTrueCrime #HistoricalMurders Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Mar 10, 2025 • 22min

The Screaming Mummy of Luxor: The Cursed Mystery of Ancient Egypt | Macabre Mini Mystery

Deep in the heart of Egypt, a horrifying discovery shocked archaeologists—a mummy with its mouth frozen in an eternal scream. Who was this tormented soul? And why did ancient embalmers leave them in such a ghastly state?In this episode of Macabre London, we uncover the chilling mystery of the Screaming Mummy of Luxor. Was it a curse? A case of live burial? Or something even more sinister lurking in the sands of time? And even worse...why did the victorians like to eat mummies at parties? Join us as we unravel the dark secrets of this eerie relic, the royal betrayals of ancient Egypt, and the terrifying fate that befell this forgotten figure.👻 Subscribe for more true crime, haunted history, and macabre mysteries from London and beyond!Thanks to London Nootropics For Sponsoring today's episode.Get 20% off Mush Love and any London Nootropics order by using the code MACABRE at the checkout onhttps://www.Londonnootropics.com-------------------------Be sure to check out my other podcast, Killers, Cults & Queens https://podfollow.com/queens---------------------------SUPPORT ME————————ONE OFF DONATIONS: Paypal - paypal.me/macabrelondonKO-FI: ko-fi.com/macabrelondonPATREON: www.patreon.com/macabrelondonAMAZON WISHLIST - https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/...MERCH! - https://macabrelondon-shop.fourthwall...——————————-Thank you to our executive producer patrons - Christina, Christophe, Heathers Leg, Lisa, M, Ravelle, Sally, Sam, Sarah, Terri & VeronicaAnd to all of our wonderful £5 tier patrons...AmyAndreaAndrewClaire RClaire SCreepy PaperDavid RDeniseElizabethHelenIngeJoKathrynKellyLindalLizRachelShannonTalliTanyaThe Paranormal PrincessVeeZozoLAMAnd thanks to all other patrons too!————————SOCIAL MEDIA---------------------------------------------Insta: @nikkimacabrelondonX: @macabrelondonTikTok: @macabrelondonFacebook: @macabrelondonEmail: macabrelondon@hotmail.com---------------------------------------------#MacabreLondon #AncientEgypt #ScreamingMummy #TrueCrime #HistoryMystery #HauntedHistory #EgyptianCurse Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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