South London’s hidden occult history is uncovered in this revealing Spooky Isles podcast with author and folklorist David Turnbull
In the latest episode of the Spooky Isles podcast, writer, folklorist and local guide David Turnbull joins editor David Saunderson to explore the fascinating – and often chilling – history of Lambeth and South London.
Turnbull, who has contributed many great articles to Spooky Isles over the past two years, brings decades of research and personal experience to the discussion. A Lambeth resident since 1977, he offers a unique perspective on the area’s hidden stories.
“A lot of tourists only see the other side of the river – Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square – but there’s plenty to find south of the river,” Turnbull explains. “Lots of interesting places, lots of interesting moments in history – and some really fascinating people connected with the South Bank and beyond.”
The episode dives into several local sites, beginning with St Mary’s Church and Churchyard, now the Garden Museum. The church dates back to the Norman Conquest and is steeped in folklore.
“It was deconsecrated in 1972,” says Turnbull. “But horror fans might recognise it – it doubled as an Italian monastery in The Omen (1976).”
The churchyard also contains the grave of Simon Forman, a controversial Elizabethan astrologer and occultist. “He believed in the magical abilities of his dreams,” Turnbull notes. “He used them to determine when to send letters, visit friends – or even find missing socks.”
Another local highlight is Lambeth Palace Library. Built just before the COVID lockdown, it now houses one of the UK’s most significant collections of occult material. Among the rarest items is The Apprehension and Confession of Three Notorious Witches (1589), detailing the trial and execution of three men – ironically, all named John.
Turnbull also draws connections between Lambeth and literary figures inspired by the occult, including William Blake and Austin Osman Spare.
“There’s a grain of sand in Lambeth that Satan cannot find,” Turnbull quotes from Blake. “That’s an ominous line, and a good example of how deeply the mystical runs through this part of London.”
The episode also delves into the curious ties between occultist Aleister Crowley and writers like Dennis Wheatley and W. Somerset Maugham, both of whom used him as inspiration for fictional villains.
The podcast concludes with Turnbull discussing his guided walks and upcoming book The Hurdy-Gurdy Man, a darkly comic horror set in 1960s London. “There’s a bit of horror, cannibalism, and class warfare,” he says with a grin. “Something for everyone, really.”
Listen to David Turnbull interview on Spooky Isles’ YouTube
Have you explored the haunted history of Lambeth? Share your favourite South London legend in the comments!
