The Bendigo Story – Guided Walking Tours

About

The Bendigo Story is a guided walk that celebrates the life and times of William ‘Bendigo’ Thompson, Nottingham’s legendary Prize-Fighter and All England Champion.

Wherever in the world you are from, you will discover that the story of William ‘Bendigo’ Thompson is a compelling one.

Born in Nottingham during the early 1800’s and despite being illiterate and poor, his physique and agility as a prize fighter brought him success. His outspoken character and natural ability as a boxer attracted a massive fan base, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who wrote a verse to the fighter.

He went on to become the undefeated Champion of England and is credited with introducing the ‘southpaw’ boxing stance.

His reputation was known throughout the world and the city of Bendigo in Australia is named after him.

Learn how the sport of boxing developed and how Bendigo was a pioneer.

The Bendigo Story is a great way to get to know Nottingham City Centre.

Join your tour guides and gain an insight into what Bendigo’s town was like in the 1800s.

Learn of other famous moments in Nottingham’s rebellious and pioneering history.

This guided tour is led by trustees of the Bendigo Memorial Fund, who will take you to a number of significant and historic locations. Photograph the city centre at your leisure.

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, is along pavements and involves no steps. It is suitable for wheelchair access. The route includes some interesting features and buildings too. Starting in The Old Market Square and ending at St Mary’s Church in the Lace Market, where you will receive a complimentary copy of the Bendigo Heritage Booklet and the opportunity to seek refreshment at a local pub.

The Bendigo Story is registered with Visit Britain, the corporate website of the UK Tourism Industry, and follows government and industry COVID-19 guidelines. Whilst The Bendigo Story is an outdoor activity, we assess all of the locations and premises that may be visited. This might be in relation to the measures they have in place for social distancing and sanitising.

The Bendigo Story is led by proud Nottingham fans of Bendigo.

“The Bendigo Story should suit everyone, from local history enthusiasts to people visiting Nottingham for a city break or sporting event” (Tour guide Alan Dawson)

"We're so excited to introduce people to a story that would be fit for filmmakers in Hollywood - and it's on the Nottingham’s doorstep" (Tour guide Jevon Patrick)

The Bendigo Story is scheduled for every Saturday and Sunday but group bookings can be arranged (minimum 6 persons).

TIME: 2pm Saturday and Sundays (Group Bookings can be made on request)
STARTS: Outside the Nottingham Tourism Centre on Smithy Row (next to The Old Market Square, Nottingham).

DURATION: 2.5 hrs
COST: £15 adults (please advise if you have children U18 with you)
BOOKING: Online booking essential via Eventbrite

The Bendigo Memorial Fund is preserving The Bendigo Story for future generations. It is also campaigning for a new statue in his memory. More information can be found on their website, on Twitter or Facebook.