Mudlarking has been a part of London’s history for centuries, with foundations in the 18th and 19th centuries when Londoners (typically children) scoured the Thames for anything of value. Over time, the practice evolved into a beloved hobby for devoted history enthusiasts, offering a unique way to uncover the city’s hidden past.
The Thames foreshore is often described as London’s largest archaeological site, holding relics from history that span millennia – from ancient Roman artefacts to medieval treasures. So, there is no questioning why this activity has slow-burned into this current craze, and now, you can finally get a piece of the action as the mudlarking permit applications have reopened to the public following a two-year break.
The Port of London Authority (PLA) has officially relaunched its mudlarking permit system, allowing lovers of the practice to return to the Thames to uncover treasures buried beneath its muddy shores. There was a surge in interest in 2022, with numbers increasing from just 200 permits in 2018 to over 5,000 four years later. This made the PLA pause the scheme in order to reassess its sustainability.
However, with the scheme now reinstated, the PLA has made significant changes to ensure the protection of the foreshore remains, along with its archaeological significance.
A maximum of 4,000 standard permits will be available each year, priced at £35. This limit aims to reduce the environmental strain on the riverbed, ensuring responsible exploration and upkeeping the area’s historical integrity. Unlike previous years, permits will no longer be auto-renewable, giving more Londoners and new applicants a better chance to participate in the popular pastime.
Additionally, the PLA has introduced a new Creative Foreshore Permit, limited to 30 holders at any given time. This special permit allows individuals to use non-significant finds in artistic projects or exhibitions, giving creatives a unique way to engage with the capital’s iconic river and its rich history.
For more information on mudlarking and how to apply for these reinstated permits, click here to visit the Port of London Authority’s website.
