Join Joolz for a fresh and very surprising walk through Stockwell, one of Londons most overlooked and misunderstood areas.
This is a neighbourhood that quietly hides extraordinary stories. In this video we explore the places connected to Vincent van Gogh, Roger Moore, the Portuguese community, the iconic bus station, and a set of hidden secrets you would never expect to find between Brixton and Vauxhall. Stockwell might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of great London walks, but it should be. Vincent van Gogh lived right here during his early life in England, long before he became one of the most celebrated artists in history. Today the street where he stayed seems ordinary at first glance, but once you know the story it becomes a doorway into his troubled and fascinating journey. A few streets away we look at the birthplace of Roger Moore. Long before he became famous as James Bond he was a South London lad with a very normal upbringing. It is amazing to stand there and imagine how someone from this quiet corner of London grew into one of the most recognisable faces in cinema. Stockwell is also home to one of the most vibrant Portuguese communities in Britain. You can see it in the bakeries, the cafes, the restaurants and the easy friendliness that spills into the streets. Even if I only touch on it in the video, it is worth mentioning simply because it gives Stockwell such a warm and distinctive character. We also take a look at the Stockwell bus station, a striking piece of modern architecture that has become something of a landmark in its own right. Whether you love it or hate it, you cannot ignore it. It gives the area a sense of energy and movement and it has become a backdrop for countless journeys through the city. Along the way I uncover several small but fascinating stories that reveal what makes Stockwell such a special place. Old records, forgotten names, unusual events, hidden memorials and quiet corners that most people walk straight past. This is what I love most about making these walks. London looks different the moment you slow down and pay attention.
