Urban Secrets

Alan Cumming explores lesser‑known facts on a journey between Smithfield and Spitalfield, two of London’s most famous markets. The programme follows his travel through the bustling streets of these historic market districts, uncovering hidden stories and details about the areas he visits.

The episode centres on actor Alan Cumming as the presenter, guiding viewers through a short series that aims to reveal obscure details about two of London’s most celebrated markets. It’s presented as a concise programme where Cumming takes on the role of curious explorer, inviting the audience to join him in uncovering facts that aren’t widely known. The core of the episode follows Cumming on a walk that links Smithfield and Spitalfield, two historic market areas that sit at opposite ends of the city’s central district. As he moves from one market to the other, he points out tidbits and hidden stories that usually escape the casual visitor, turning a simple route into a treasure‑hunt for information. Throughout the journey, Cumming’s style remains conversational, keeping the tone relaxed while still delivering a steady stream of little‑known facts. The focus stays firmly on the two markets themselves, using the walk as a framework for each revelation. By the end of the episode, viewers are left with a richer understanding of Smithfield and Spitalfield, having learned more about their histories and quirks than they might have expected.