Rose Alley

Southwark, 56, Park Street (SE1) This stands on the site of the Rose Theatre, which stood to the right of the famous Beargarden. "Herein," writes Stow, "be kept bears, bulls, and other beasts to be baited; as also mastiffs in several kennels, nourished to bait them. These bears and other beasts are there kept in plots of ground scaffolded about for the beholders to stand safe." On one occasion we find Queen Elizabeth I issuing directions for the French Ambassador to be conducted to Southwark, for the purpose of witnessing these cruel but then fashionable sports. (Reference: Jesse's London, vol. III, pp. 428-9)