Medical Tour: All Around the University – Firsts & Inventions in the History of Medicine
Russell Square underground station, London
Guided by Rick Jones or Ronnie Haydon
Adult: £20 · Students & Seniors: £15 · Children: £5
Walk Times
| Day | Walk Type | Start Time | End Time | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday | Weekly | 2.30 pm | 4 pm | Winter Summer | Reserve Online |
N.B. this walk will not take place on the following dates:
06-03-2025 03-04-2025 21-08-2025 25-12-2025FIRST THINGS FIRST – IT ALL COMES DOWN TO THE GUIDING
Ronnie’s Medical Tour: All Around the University begins at Russell Square tube. She sets the scene and then we’re off, on the trail of thrilling medical discoveries and breakthroughs.
The very streets (and buildings) where they happened. Sites where medical history was made, sites which commemorate significant medical events such as the first vaccination, anaesthetic antibiotic, antiseptic, artificial insemination, free health service and the discovery of deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA.
The tour celebrates the success of the medical profession in its ongoing fight against Covid.
We end back at Russell Square tube station.
Ann robinson –
Ronnie gave us a fascinating tour; full of inspiring stories and insights. We saw tokens in the pavement, signs on walls, plaques, squares and a dead philosopher. Absolutely fantastic afternoon!
Ann robinson –
Ronnie was wonderful! I learned so much on her interesting and enjoyable walk. There were so many inspiring stories/all told either humour and panache. Thank you for a great afternoon
Dr. Thomas A. Underwood –
As a veteran London Walker (“Walkser”?), I am always excited to join a walk that is new to me — and Ronnie’s Medical Tour did not disappoint. I’ve been on a great walk with Ronnie before, but she really shone extra bright on this one — perhaps because of her interest in women’s history. As a speaker, Ronnie is poised and articulate, leaning on no verbal crutches. Her recall of names and dates is also excellent. She did a brilliant job of narrating the history of medicine at University College of London and environs from the 17th century forward. Her excitement was palpable when she recounted stories of 19th-century women who fought the sexism and misogyny that blocked their study at medical school until they could stand for it no longer. Ronnie also knew her history of literature and included fascinating tidbits about authors from George Orwell to Agatha Christie. I left this walk better educated and recommend it highly!
Susan Perpetuini –
My friend and I attended this walk this morning and we were not disappointed. Ronnie was a superb guide, very clear in her diction, and extremely knowledgeable. She made the walk so interesting. We felt very fortunate to have had her.
Christoph Karner –
Like Janet I was on the medical tour on June 14 guided by Ronnie, and I wholeheartedly agree with everything Janet has so wonderfully written below.
Janet –
Ronnie was our guide and we struck gold: friendly, fun and fascinating. Wasn’t sure what to expect given the title and whether it would be too highbrow for me. It wasn’t! There is so much hidden away on our London streets you just need to look and have somebody like Ronnie with you! Thank you for your knowledge and research, and for your acknowledgement of all those who have made such a difference to our lives. Loved it!
Sue –
An excellent walk around UCL. Ronnie certainly knows her subject and is clear in the delivery of it. From smallpox to Covid, Bentham to Whitty via Nightingale, the odd mosquito, Orwell and Corum. Fascinating couple of hours.
Patrick Egan –
We enjoyed our walk very much with Ronnie, she is very knowledgeable and had a great passion on letting us know all about this amazing walk, so informative. We would definitely recommend this walk. Thank you Ronnie
Janet –
An interesting walk around Bloomsbury, pointing out medical-themed details that you otherwise wouldn’t notice. Ronnie is a very pleasant and knowledgeable guide.
Charlotte –
My mother and I (and dog Percy who was given a warm welcome) thoroughly enjoyed Ronnie’s informative tour around UCL, the University hospital and other related sights. Loved how the walk celebrated humans who cared and reformed for their fellow humans and especially the focus on women’s contributions in medicine. Ronnie’s passion and knowledge really shone through. We so often hear constantly about the negative nature of humanity in life and this was refreshing. The area is really buzzing and vibrant, reflecting the genuine diversity of London. Thank you Ronnie for a fascinating afternoon.