In series two of Peaky Blinders, the BBC series based around the Birmingham gangs that ruled the racecourses after World War One, Tommy Shelby and his boys head to London. This brings them up against the Italian gangster Sabini, and Jewish gangster Alfie Solomons. But is Peaky Blinders based on real life? This ninety minute walk led by Islington guide Rob Smith looks at the true story of the Sabini gang, and visits some of their haunts in what was London’s Little Italy. Rob will tell some stories from the mean streets of gangland and introduce some more of London’s gangs from the Titanic mob of pre First World War London, to gangsters like Mad Frankie Fraser who grew up in the world of the Sabini’s.

Here’s what people who have been on the walk have said about it

5* “Very interesting walk with Rob Smith who was very knowledgeable and had obviously researched the topic thoroughly. Rob set the scene by describing the history of the area first and as the walk progressed brought the ‘events’ of the time more up to date. Found it fascinating as it was relevant to my own family research. Highly recommended.” GR

5* “As an indigenous Londoner, walking through the streets of Clerkenwell and Islington with Rob allowed me to interact with my native city in a whole different way. His deep knowledge was profound and he brought a great deal of texture to often ignored streets, signs and pubs. From the meaning of Mount Pleasant to the Old Piano Factory, I enjoyed every minute of the tour and would highly recommend to anybody interested in London’s dark underbelly.” SC