Hands on History

Mudlarking is the practice of searching for historical objects and artefacts in the River Thames.

These lost, forgotten and discarded objects offer a window into London’s rich history, and the muddy banks of the River Thames foreshore are a treasure chest of invaluable finds.

See what you could discover at Hands on History, a pop-up mudlarking exhibition held on the Great Map of the National Maritime Museum from 10-11 September.

The exhibition will see London's mudlarks display their favourite finds and private collections.

Experience Tudor London and handle 16th century artefacts recovered in front of the former Palace of Placentia in Greenwich. Discover the secrets of London's maritime past, and share the thrill of finding a piece of history buried in the banks of the Thames.

Mudlark Nicola White will also host a free talk about the exhibition on Saturday 10 September at 4pm in the National Maritime Museum Lecture Theatre.

Totally Thames Festival

This exhibition and talk is part of the Totally Thames Festival, an annual celebration taking place on, beneath and along the River Thames.

Mudlarking walks and talks also feature during the festival. Check out all additional events, such as the StoryWalk and the Thames Discovery Programme foreshore walks, on the Totally Thames Festival website.