Ratcliffe Highway

Repro ID: H6394

Description: Ratcliffe Highway, a road lying to the north of the Wapping waterfront, was the most notorious area for prostitution in the port. Sailors from ships moored in the Pool of London flocked to the Highway. Most were single men with plenty of cash to spare after long voyages. They were looking for drink and women. Songs and shanties, like the example here, were written in celebration of the Highway.

Creator: Traditional Arrangement. Sung by Pieter Van Der Merwe

Date: 18th century

Credit line: National Maritime Museum