Exploring the Thames: The History and Hobby of Mudlarking

Wed, 06 May 2026 20:35:00 +0200

Mudlarking is a unique practice rooted in the history of London, where enthusiasts search the exposed banks of the Thames for artifacts and historical objects. Originating in the 18th century as a way for impoverished Londoners and children to earn money, mudlarking evolved from a survival activity into a hobby for history enthusiasts. Today, the activity is organized under The Society of Thames Mudlarks, and the number of licensed participants has grown from around 50 in the late 1970s to 5,000, though new permits are currently restricted by the Port of London Authority to protect the riverbanks. Modern mudlarks use tools such as shovels, trowels, sieves, and metal detectors to uncover a variety of finds, including Roman coins, medieval pilgrim badges, pipe stems, buttons, jewelry, and other objects that reveal details about everyday life in London’s past. Archaeologists and historians, like Fiona Haughey and Malcolm Russell, engage in mudlarking not only to find valuable items but al