Grab your quills and adjust your waistcoats, time travellers, because we’re heading to London, England, on January 21, 1846, for the launch of The Daily News, a bold new newspaper with none other than literary legend Charles Dickens at the helm. Described as a liberal, reform-minded publication, The Daily News aimed to enlighten, inform, and entertain its readers while challenging the social injustices of the time.
This city break offers a chance to explore Victorian London’s bustling streets, witness Dickens at the height of his creative powers, and delve into the dynamic world of 19th-century journalism.
Why Visit London in January 1846?
London in 1846 is a city of contrasts, where Victorian elegance exists alongside grinding poverty. The Industrial Revolution is in full swing, bringing technological advancements but also social upheaval. It’s the perfect setting for a literary genius like Dickens, who not only documented these tensions in his novels but also sought to address them through his work as a journalist and editor.
The publication of The Daily News reflects Dickens’s passion for social reform, making this a pivotal moment in the evolution of both British journalism and the fight for justice.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: The World of Dickens and Journalism
Start your day at the offices of The Daily News, located at 90 Fleet Street, the heart of Victorian journalism. Imagine the bustling newsroom, where writers, editors, and printers work feverishly under Dickens’s watchful eye to bring the first edition to life.
While you can’t hold the press to witness Dickens himself (he only served as editor for three weeks), you’ll get a sense of the ambition and idealism that fuelled this venture. Take a moment to flip through the first issue, which champions progressive causes like education reform, workers’ rights, and freedom of the press.
Next, visit The Charles Dickens Museum at 48 Doughty Street, Dickens’s former home. Wander through the rooms where he penned some of his most famous works and prepared articles for The Daily News. The museum offers a glimpse into his personal and professional life, from his family portraits to his writing desk.
For lunch, head to Simpson’s Tavern, one of London’s oldest chophouses. Enjoy a hearty Victorian meal of roast beef and plum pudding, accompanied by lively chatter about the latest news and Dickens’s daring venture into publishing.
Day 2: Exploring Victorian London
Dive deeper into the world Dickens sought to reform by visiting St. Giles Rookery, one of London’s most infamous slums. Dickens’s desire to highlight the plight of the poor drove much of his work, both in fiction and journalism. While the rookery is a sobering sight, it’s an essential stop for understanding the social conditions that inspired Dickens’s advocacy.
Next, take a stroll through Covent Garden, where street performers, flower sellers, and market traders bring the city to life. It’s a vibrant counterpoint to the darker corners of London, showcasing the energy and creativity that Dickens so often celebrated in his stories.
Wrap up your day at Drury Lane Theatre, where Dickens’s works were frequently adapted for the stage. Enjoy a performance and toast the author-editor with a glass of mulled wine.
Who Was Charles Dickens?
By 1846, Charles Dickens was already a household name, thanks to novels like The Pickwick Papers and Oliver Twist. But Dickens was more than just a novelist—he was a passionate advocate for social change. His decision to edit The Daily News reflected his commitment to using the written word to expose injustices and push for reform.
Though his tenure as editor was brief, Dickens set the tone for a paper that would go on to champion liberal causes and investigative journalism. The Daily News stood as a counterpoint to the conservative press, promoting progressive ideals in a rapidly changing society.
Why The Daily News Matters
The launch of The Daily News marked a turning point in 19th-century journalism. Unlike many of its contemporaries, the paper prioritised in-depth reporting, cultural commentary, and advocacy for the disenfranchised. Dickens’s influence ensured that the paper struck a balance between high-quality writing and a moral mission.
While Dickens left the paper after just 17 issues, The Daily News endured, eventually becoming the News Chronicle in 1930. Its legacy lies in its commitment to journalism with a conscience, a philosophy that remains relevant today.
Travel Tips for 1846 London
- Bundle Up: London in January is damp and chilly, so wear layers and a sturdy overcoat to keep warm.
- Mind the Streets: Victorian London is bustling but dirty, with horse-drawn carriages, street vendors, and narrow alleys—watch your step!
- Brush Up on Current Affairs: Familiarise yourself with 19th-century politics and social issues to fully appreciate the progressive spirit of The Daily News.
What’s on the Menu?
Victorian London’s food scene offers hearty fare for hungry time travellers. Look for:
- Steak and Oyster Pie: A rich, savoury dish beloved by the Victorians.
- Eel Soup: A surprisingly popular delicacy in the 19th century.
- Treacle Tart: A sweet treat to end your meal.
Pair your meal with a mug of porter beer or a steaming cup of tea for the true Dickensian experience.
Fun Trivia About The Daily News
- Did you know? Dickens hired some of the best writers of his time to contribute to The Daily News, including William Makepeace Thackeray, his future literary rival.
- Odd but true: Dickens resigned as editor after just 17 issues, citing the stress of the job and his preference for creative writing over management.
- Legacy: The Daily News was one of the first papers to employ foreign correspondents, pioneering the field of international journalism.
Want to Know More?
Books
- Charles Dickens: A Life by Claire Tomalin.
- The Invisible Ink: The Forgotten Journalism of Charles Dickens by Christopher Hitchens.
Articles
- “The Launch of The Daily News” in Victorian Studies Quarterly.
- “Dickens as Journalist: His Short-Lived Tenure at The Daily News” by the British Library.
Web Resources
- Charles Dickens Museum: www.dickensmuseum.com
- British Newspaper Archive: www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk
The Final Word
January 21, 1846, wasn’t just another day in Victorian London—it was the beginning of a bold experiment in journalism. Visiting London during this pivotal moment allows you to witness Charles Dickens at his most idealistic, explore the city that inspired his writing, and reflect on the power of the press to challenge injustice and spark change.
Whether you’re strolling down Fleet Street, uncovering Dickens’s inspirations, or flipping through the first edition of The Daily News, this city break promises a fascinating journey into the heart of Victorian London.
Have you walked in the footsteps of literary greats or witnessed the birth of groundbreaking journalism? Share your tales—we’ll toast your adventures with a cup of tea and a hearty slice of treacle tart!
