One of the best parts of London is how remnants of the past are seamlessly interwoven into the modern world. Like the modern city, Victorian London was packed with pedestrians with public transportation the primary method of travel, but unlike today it relied on literal horse power.
In 1875 the Cabman’s Shelter Fund was established to run shelters for the drivers of horse-drawn cabs, so that they had a place to escape the weather and grab a quick meal between jobs, as by law they were forbidden to leave their carriages while on duty. These shelters were set up next to existing cab stands, and between 1875-1914, 61 were built around London . They were tiny – just the size of a horse and carriage, so they didn’t take up much street space.
Today, 13 of these historically protected shelters still stand. They are still run by the Cabman’s Shelter Fund, and are still used by the city’s cab drivers, who are the only ones allowed inside. However, anyone can order take-away from the front window.
They are all independently run, with different menus, opening times and policies, but all primarily serve breakfast. Some, like Russell Square, are card only, while others, like Warwick Road, are cash only.
Today they remain best place in London for a traditional bacon roll – with a side of history!
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