Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Yes, 129 St Johns Road, London was a workhouse. Designed by Victorian architect William Cubitt, it opened in 1868 and housed over 1,000 men, women, and children. Managed by the St. George's-in-the-East Board of Guardians, it provided food, shelter, medical care, and work. The workhouse closed in the early 20th century following social policy reforms and the 1948 National Assistance Act.