Southwark Cathedral hosts a series of changing mudlarking displays in the exhibition cases in the Cathedral Link. These displays showcase objects discovered on the Thames foreshore by members of London’s mudlarking community, offering fascinating glimpses into everyday life in London’s past.
Mudlarking reveals a remarkable record of London’s past. From fragments of pottery and glass to everyday objects lost centuries ago, these discoveries offer small but fascinating glimpses into the lives of those who lived and worked along the river.
The exhibition cases in the Cathedral Link feature a rotating series of displays by mudlarks and artists who explore the history of the Thames through objects recovered from the foreshore.
Displays change regularly and feature collections curated by mudlarks and artists.
Please note that display changeover dates may vary.
About the displays
Objects discovered through mudlarking can range from fragments of pottery and glass to personal items lost centuries ago along the Thames. These finds offer small but fascinating glimpses into London’s past and the lives of those who lived and worked beside the river.
The displays bring together objects, artworks and collections curated by mudlarks and artists exploring the history of the Thames. The displays are coordinated by mudlark and author Lara Maiklem, working with members of London’s mudlarking community.
Current and upcoming displays
March
Simon Fellows – mudlark and voiceover artist
Simon takes inspiration from what he finds on the foreshore (or what finds him), setting objects in modelling clay to create pieces that range from the mythical and mystical to a host of characters that he imagines reflect the people who have lived and worked alongside the Thames over the centuries.
April
Julia Burnett – mudlark and artist
Julia predominantly paints landscapes, but the Thames, mudlarks and river-found artefacts have become a rich source of subject matter for her work. This display showcases examples of her smaller works alongside some of the objects she has found on the foreshore.
May
Richard Hemmery – mudlark and pottery specialist
Richard is exhibiting objects he has found on the Thames foreshore alongside a timeline of river-found pottery sherds dating back more than 2,000 years.
June
Barbara Bradley and Sue Langley – mudlarks and friends
An eclectic mix of two mudlarks’ favourite finds and a snapshot of London history, drawn from seven years of mudlarking together on the River Thames.