How Many Cries of London Are There?

By Alice Nichols

The Cries of London are a fascinating part of the city’s cultural history. These were the distinctive calls made by street vendors as they sold their wares, and they contributed to the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of London’s streets. But one question that often arises is how many cries of London were there?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the number of different cries varied over time and according to different sources. However, it is estimated that there were around 200 different cries in total.

Some of the most well-known cries included “hot pies,” “mackerel,” “sweet lavender,” and “cherry ripe.” These calls would have been heard throughout the city, as vendors walked their routes or set up stalls in busy marketplaces.

The tradition of the Cries of London dates back centuries, with some scholars suggesting that it can be traced back to medieval times. The first known printed collection of Cries was published in 1575 by a printer named John Awdeley. This book contained woodcut illustrations and descriptions of various street vendors and their cries.

Over time, other publishers followed Awdeley’s lead and produced their own collections. These books became popular souvenirs for tourists visiting London, who enjoyed hearing the calls firsthand during their travels.

Despite the popularity of these collections, however, not all vendors were included in them. Many street traders had unique or localized calls that were not widely documented or recorded.

In addition to being a cultural curiosity, the Cries of London also played an important role in commerce. Vendors used distinctive calls to attract customers and distinguish themselves from their competitors. Some even developed songs or rhymes to accompany their cries, further enhancing their appeal.

Today, while many traditional street vendors have disappeared from London’s streets due to changing economic circumstances and regulations, echoes of the Cries can still be heard in modern times. Street performers sometimes dress up as historical vendors and give demonstrations of their calls, while some contemporary vendors continue to use traditional calls as part of their sales pitch.

In conclusion, while the exact number of Cries of London may remain unknown, their legacy lives on in the memories and imaginations of those who have experienced them. Whether heard through historical documents or recreated by modern-day performers, the Cries continue to be an important part of London’s cultural heritage.