Online booking for our events is recommended

Mudlarking weekend

London Museum Docklands — Activity

  • Person in foreground inspects cases of shells, broken pottery and other old artifacts on display

    Come and see thousands of historic artefacts recovered from the riverbed and meet the mudlarks who found them.

10am – 5pm

28 – 29 Sep 2024

A showcase of the forgotten objects of London's rivers, discovered on the Thames' foreshore.

Come and see thousands of historic artefacts recovered from the riverbed and meet the mudlarks who found them. In this interactive showcase, you'll hear the intriguing backstories about the artefacts on display in the museum.

Each object reveals a unique story about the people who once lived and worked in London’s Docklands. Don't miss this unique opportunity to hold history in your hands and talk to the mudlarks who discovered the ancient artefacts. 

A wide variety of interactive, river-related arts and crafts activities will be offered by mudlark artists. You'll also have the chance to explore the museum by following a mudlarking trail.

Hooray, you’re coming for free! Why not give a little back and donate today?

How to attend:
In-person only
Good to know:
This display is open all weekend for all to drop in
  • A man in a blue shirt shows a small object to two people at a crowded indoor market or event.

    Meet mudlarking enthusiasts and their fascinating collection of forgotten objects.

  • An assortment of rusted metal artifacts, including a padlock, various hooks, round objects, and a "CREWS ENTRANCE" sign, lay on a dark surface.

    Unique objects and artefacts will be on display – all collected from the River Thames.

  • Two women examine an item up close, with one holding a magnifying glass. They are among a group of people in a well-lit indoor setting.

    Come up close and hold thousands of years of history in your hands.

  • A person examines a collection of various small antique items and pottery shards on a table, using a magnifying glass. Another person's hand is partially shown holding a plate.

    The collection reveals intriguing stories of lost rivers and past Londoners.

  • Two individuals examine a vintage-themed box with a screen displaying an image. The scene is indoors with wooden flooring and a wall in the background.

    Get involved with interactive, river-related activities.

The museum is open every day 10am – 5pm.

If you have time, why not also visit our free galleries and get more in-depth with Docklands history?

Our address is London Museum Docklands, No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL. We're just a few minutes away from Canary Wharf and West India Quay.

Check our need to know page to get the answers to all the frequently asked questions about visiting.

This is a free showcase that will be open all weekend.

There are other events as part of mudlarking weekend that are paid and ticketed below – advanced booking is recommended for these events.

Our cafe is the perfect place to sit down and relax for a bite or tea break. We have sandwiches, pastries, snacks and a wide selection of hot and cold drinks.

You’ll also find our shop with a curated range of gifts and souvenirs, including posters, prints, toys, books and jewellery.

More about shopping, eating & drinking

Tags

Activity London Museum Docklands

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