why is a criminal or other dodgy person's home sometimes called a "drum"?

Answer 1

It has less to do with criminals or "dodgy" people than Londoners themselves; I use the term regularly.
Etymologist Eric Partridge reckons it is from the Romany "drom" meaning road (from the Greek "dromma"). Seems likely as Londoners frequently say: "This is my road," meaning where they live. Therefore "Come 'round my drum," means come visit my "neighbourhood" as well as my "house."
Romany people (gypsies) had a great deal of influence on 19th Century London English, much of which is still in regular use

Answer 2

For 'Drum' try this explanation

But the eminent etymologist of slang Eric Partridge felt that this 19th century slang use of "drum" to mean "home" probably came from the Romany word "drom," meaning "road" (possibly derived from the Greek "dromos"). A slang sense of "drum" as "road" did indeed appear in early 19th century England, and the "home" sense was probably an outgrowth of this usage. The Romany origin of "drum" also makes sense, as Romany was the language of the Gypsies who played an important role in the underworld of 19th century London.

Answer 3

Rhyming slang for slum

Answer 4

It comes from "Drum & Bass"-- place.

Answer 5

i am unsure but it goes back to the Victorian times, Dickens uses it in Oliver twist.

Answer 6

thought it was cockney rhyming slang, "drum and mace" meaning place.

Answer 7

i reckon thats right...drum and mace...place..
never heard of it before but i reckon thats it

Answer 8

i thought it was called a prison