Ep 1. Tower Hamlets

In Mud Men season 3 episode 1, titled "Tower Hamlets," the hosts Johnny Vaughan and Steve Brooker venture to London's historic Tower Hamlets neighborhood to explore the hidden treasures buried deep beneath the mud. Tower Hamlets was home to the ancient Docklands which played a vital role in the development of London's shipping industry. The hosts are on a mission to discover the artifacts and relics left behind by London's dock workers, sailors, and traders.

The episode begins with Johnny and Steve embarking on their mudlarking journey in a section of the River Thames known as Limehouse Reach. Armed with their waders and metal detectors, the hosts get down and dirty as they sift through the mud in search of lost treasures. Their first discovery is a large, rusted ship's anchor that has been lodged in the mud for centuries.

As they continue along the riverbanks, the hosts uncover a variety of interesting objects, including old coins, clay pipes, and even a porcelain teapot. Johnny and Steve explain the historical significance of each item and talk about how it may have ended up in the river.

The hosts then head to the historic Regent's Canal where they search for artifacts from London's canal trade industry. They discover old pottery pieces that would have been used to carry goods on the barges, as well as a large iron hook that would have been used to move heavy loads.

Next, the hosts journey to a site where they hope to uncover relics from the notorious Wapping Execution Dock. This was the location where pirates and other criminals were hanged during the 18th and 19th centuries. Johnny and Steve search the area and soon unearth some fascinating finds. They discover a rusty pair of handcuffs, a brass button that would have belonged to a pirate's uniform, and even a rare coin from the reign of King Charles II.

Finally, the hosts travel to an area known as "Ratcliffe Cross" where they hope to find evidence of the infamous Ratcliffe Highway Murders. In 1811, a series of brutal murders took place in this area of London, and the killers were eventually caught and executed. Johnny and Steve scour the mud for any items that might be connected to the murders, but come up empty-handed.

Despite not finding any evidence related to the murders, the hosts discover some interesting artifacts related to London's water trade. They find a beautiful clay tobacco pipe that belonged to a wealthy businessman, as well as a set of decorative glass buttons that would have been used to adorn a high-class coat.

Throughout the episode, Johnny and Steve provide fascinating commentary on the history of London and the role that the River Thames played in the development of the city. They also discuss the importance of preserving these artifacts for future generations.

In the end, the hosts reflect on their mudlarking adventure and the treasures they've uncovered. They pack up their finds and prepare to move on to their next adventure, knowing that hidden beneath the mud lies a wealth of history and untold stories waiting to be discovered.