Shadows of Empire: The Opium Den

The recreational use of opium became popular in Britain in Victorian and Edwardian times. Opium dens were places where people could smoke opium in a social setting. They were established in many urban areas. British opium dens were described in Victorian novels as mysterious and dangerous places, fuelling the public’s imagination.

Opium dens were mainly found in London and other ports.

British opium dens catered to different social classes. Opium dens for the wealthy and elite offered luxurious surroundings and high-quality opium. Dens that catered to the working class provided a more basic setting and lower-quality opium. Although all classes were affected, the consequences for working-class people could be more severe. Addicted bread-winners could prioritise opium over their family’s needs, spending a significant portion of their income on the drug.

Opium addiction became problematic in Britain, just as it was in China. Accidental overdoses were common, as was long-term dependency, often leading to chronic health problems.