London at night in the 1930s looked very different from today. Harold Burked, a photographer, captured this time in a book called ‘London Night’. He worked with writer John Morrison to show what the city was like after dark. These photos give us a glimpse into a world lit mostly by gas lamps and early electric lights.
The streets were quieter back then. Cars weren’t as common, so you’d see more people walking or taking buses. In the photos, you can spot streetlights casting soft glows on cobblestone roads. Shop windows had displays that stood out against the dark backdrop. It was a time when nightlife revolved around theaters, pubs, and dance halls.
The photos highlight how technology was changing life in London. Electric signs began appearing, advertising everything from cigarettes to shows. Yet many areas still relied on older lighting methods. This mix of old and new creates a unique atmosphere in the pictures.
