ARTIST: CUNNING FOLK
TRACK: THE BISCUIT FACTORY
LOCATION: THE BISCUIT FACTORY
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The Biscuit Factory is a thriving business hub with hundreds of diverse and enterprising companies inhabiting the imposing buildings. It is so called because it was once the home to Peek Freans, innovators of the culinary treasure that is the biscuit, who first opened their gates for business in 1873.
The site became known as “Biscuit Town” due to the enormous scale of operations, leading to almost every local family having a relative working here in some capacity.
The world’s first chocolate biscuit was invented here, and the alluring aroma of freshly baked treats permeated the surrounding streets until its closer in 1989.
The buildings serve as a reference to the industrial heritage of the area, providing a sense of nostalgia for the present population.
BIOGRAPHY
Cunning Folk [George Hoyle] is a musician, storyteller & music promoter & folklorist. He has performed worldwide in indie bands, cosmic house acts, experimental music collectives & as a folk artist. He sings songs of place & magic & ritual & songs from the tradition of the British Isles.
He runs the South East London Folklore Society, co-founded the annual Bermondsey Folk Festival & performs regularly at London Dreamtime storytelling events in forgotten corners & secret places.