London Museum Docklands unveils major exhibition: “Secrets of the Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures”

London’s rich history lies not just in its buildings and monuments, but beneath the murky waters of the River Thames. Starting this Friday, visitors to London can discover centuries of hidden treasures as London Museum Docklands launches its groundbreaking exhibition “Secrets of the Thames: Mudlarking London’s Lost Treasures.”

Opening April 4th and running until March 1, 2026, this major exhibition marks the first comprehensive showcase dedicated to mudlarking—the practice of searching river foreshores for historical artifacts—and celebrates the Thames as perhaps London’s most significant archaeological site.

From River Bed to Display Case

The exhibition brings together over 350 remarkable objects discovered in the Thames, ranging from the spectacular to the peculiar. Visitors will marvel at newly discovered treasures including an elegant Tudor headdress, a Medieval gold ring that reveals a centuries-old love story, and an elaborately decorated Viking era dagger personally inscribed with its owner’s name.

Among the more unusual items are 18th century false teeth, Medieval spectacles, and a Roman badge adorned with a phallus—each object telling its own unique story about London’s past residents and visitors.

A Living Archaeological Site

“We are lucky in London to have this amazing tidal river environment that has preserved so much of our past,” explains Kate Sumnall, Curator at London Museum. “It is the longest archaeological site in London and here we find an unbelievably rich selection of finds.”

The exhibition has been designed as an immersive experience, recreating the foreshore environment where these artifacts were discovered. Centerpiece installations include “The Moon” by artist Luke Jerram, highlighting the crucial role of lunar tides in creating the conditions that make mudlarking possible.

From Victorian Poverty to Modern Passion

While today’s mudlarks are licensed hobbyists with a passion for history, the practice has humble origins. In the early 1800s, mudlarking was a desperate livelihood for London’s poorest citizens—often women and children—who would brave dangerous tides and hazardous conditions to find scraps of metal, rope, and coal they could sell.

The exhibition acknowledges this history while celebrating how modern mudlarks contribute to our understanding of London’s past through their discoveries and meticulous recording of finds.

Practical Information for Visitors

The exhibition opens at London Museum Docklands, located in a Grade 1 listed warehouse at West India Quay in east London. Tickets start from £16 and can be purchased through the London Museum website.

For travelers wanting a piece of Thames history to take home, the museum shop offers a special retail collection inspired by the exhibition, featuring limited edition prints, illustrations, and ceramics created by mudlarks themselves.

For more information and to book tickets, visit londonmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/secrets-thames

Travel Tip: Combine your visit to this exhibition with exploration of the surrounding Docklands area. The museum is easily accessible via the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) at West India Quay station, and nearby attractions include Canary Wharf and the historic port areas of London’s East End.