London’s river comes alive this September
This September, the River Thames will once again take centre stage as London’s much-loved Totally Thames Festival returns for a month-long celebration of art, culture, history, and the river that has shaped the city for centuries
Running from 1–30 September, the festival transforms the 42-mile stretch of the Thames into a vibrant outdoor stage, with events ranging from large-scale art installations to intimate riverside performances. More than 100 events will take place on, beneath or alongside the river, from Richmond to Barking and Dagenham.
Launched in 2014, Totally Thames draws thousands of visitors each autumn, inviting Londoners and tourists alike with a creative and diverse programme of events that aims to engage visitors with the river and its history. Expect live music, river clean-ups, boat races, guided walks, art exhibitions, river-themed exhibitions and spectacular light displays after dark.
Highlights for 2025 include; ‘River Recital’ on the Arts Ark by Tower Bridge, a summer concert celebrating the river’s natural and cultural diversity. This intimate festival will showcase exceptional contemporary classical music, offering a unique experience that honours the Thames’ vibrant communities and rich biodiversity, and ‘The Great River Race’, London’s River Marathon where almost 300 crews will race across the capital.
For the adventurous, the festival offers kayaking tours and paddleboarding sessions, while history enthusiasts can join guided walks tracing the river’s role in London’s development, from medieval trade routes to contemporary regeneration projects. Families are well catered for too, with storytelling sessions, craft workshops and interactive activities along the South Bank and in riverside parks.
Totally Thames is more than just a celebration, it’s a reminder of the river’s enduring importance to London’s identity. Environmental themes run strongly throughout the 2025 programme, with eco-art exhibitions and talks on water conservation, climate change and river biodiversity. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Thames Path on foot or by bike, discovering hidden viewpoints and local communities along the way.
Admission is free to many of the events.
