Visible from the Thameslink train between London Bridge and Blackfriars, this charming set of houses (now dwarfed by the blocks behind!) is an example of perhaps the oldest form of social housing, the "Almshouse" First established in Britain in the 10th century, these homes were initially run as a charitable extension of the church, but now exist as secular charitable organisations. The purpose was to provide houses for the old or infirm, who were no longer able to afford rent. The architectural style is very recognisable. Very small terraced dwellings, designed for a single person, often bui…
