Gallery access
Ellmers Gallery
10am-6pm
Accessible via ramp
Discover the secrets of London's historic waterways at our new major exhibition - now open.
For centuries Londoners have existed beside a series of waterways, which have shaped the city and people within it. The history of this relationship and the art that it has inspired are the focus of our major exhibition, Secret Rivers.
Secret Rivers uses archaeological artefacts, art, photography and film to reveal stories of life by London’s rivers, streams, and brooks, exploring why many of them were lost over time.
Historic and contemporary artworks from artists, poets and authors will also show how London’s rivers have played an important role in the city’s imaginations. Previously unseen artefacts from excavations of the River Fleet and elsewhere hint at the diverse industrial, economic and religious roles these rivers have played over the centuries.
The intriguing histories of the River Effra, Fleet, Neckinger, Lea, Wandle, Tyburn, Walbrook and Westbourne will all feature in the exhibition. Each river will highlight a broader theme such as poverty, industry, development, effluence, manipulation, activism, sacred association and restoration.
With thanks to The Worshipful Company of Plumbers and The Worshipful Company of Water Conservators and The Water Conservation Trust for their support.
Discover our Secret Rivers events programme.
Teachers – want to bring your class to Secret Rivers? Find out everything you need to plan your school visit.
In partnership with Totally Thames 2019
“Exhibition including skulls, weapons and toilet seats recovered from unseen waterways beneath Londoners’ feet gives new insight into city’s history”
The Guardian
“We have to admit, we're pretty excited about new exhibition Secret Rivers, which explores London's little-known and lost waterways. Archaeological artefacts, art, photography and film are all used to tell the story of streams, rivers and brooks in the capital, many of which have been lost over time. ”
Londonist
Ellmers Gallery
Accessible via ramp
The Museum of London and the Museum of London Docklands will continue to be closed to the public for the time being, but we are hoping to reopen on Wednesday 19 May in line with the Government's roadmap for lifting lockdown restrictions.
The health and wellbeing of our visitors, staff and community is of utmost importance to us and we will continue to closely review the advice from the Government and Public Health England around the COVID-19 situation.
While the museum buildings may be closed, we’re still open online with loads of content to keep you entertained. Check our website or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter @MuseumOfLondon for all the latest news on when the museum doors will be open once more.
Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to welcoming you back soon!