Medieval London Bridge was constructed between 1176 and 1209. Buildings were erected along either side and spanning over the bridge, including gatehouses, shops and chapels. These were rebuilt in piecemeal fashion throughout the centuries, with major fires occasionally resulting in more wide-sweeping rebuilding along the bridge, such as after the Great Fire. In 1762, the roadway was widened to 46 feet and a balustrade was added "in the Gothic taste" together with 14 stone alcoves for pedestrians to shelter in. ‘Old London Bridge’ was demolished in 1831 and its components sold off. Four of the original 14 stone alcoves survive across London: two in Victoria Park, Hackney, one in the grounds of Guy's Hospital and one in the gardens of the Courtlands Estate in East Sheen. ‘Modern London Bridge’ dates from 1973.

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During Proud Places visits and workshops young people met the alcove’s conservators, took part in stonemasonry and poster design workshops. They also participated in a community event to celebrate its restoration.