Shh…Let me Tell You A Secret

London has beaches. What I hear you say? Yes, it's true. Oh ok, only when the tide goes out. This beach is worth seeing because very few tourists venture down this far. If they do, they miss the entrance to the beach.

Bermondsey Beach

Bermondsey Beach, is a stretch of the River Thames riverbed exposed at low tide, located on the south side of the river between Tower Bridge and Rotherhithe. It is a short walk from the historic, cobbled street of Shad Thames.

Access is via two sets of steps with handrails, one at each end of the beach. The steps are steep, so caution is needed, especially at low tide when the foreshore is fully exposed.

You will be disappointed if you expect a sandy beach. It's a a stony, pebbly foreshore with large rocks, revealed when the tidal Thames recedes.

The beach offers views of iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, The Shard, the Walkie Talkie, the Gherkin, and Canary Wharf in the distance. The beach is a 5-minute walk from Bermondsey Station (Jubilee Line) or a 30-minute walk from London Bridge.

Artefacts from London’s maritime past, such as items linked to the Victorian dockyards, can be found here, making it a point of interest for mudlarks (people who search for historical items on the foreshore).

Shad Thames

Walking along Shad Thames is like stepping into another world. The cobbled street gives you an indication of a bye gone world. The area, steeped in London’s industrial and maritime history.

Shad Thames, a historic street once home to London’s largest warehouse complex for tea, coffee, and spices.

Tidal Nature

The Thames is tidal up to Teddington Lock, with water levels rising and falling twice daily by up to 7 meters (23 feet). Bermondsey Beach is only accessible at low tide, as it is submerged at high tide. Visitors should check tide times (e.g., via BBC Weather or Willy Weather) and plan to arrive about 2 hours before low tide to have roughly 4 hours of safe exploration time.

The tide can come in rapidly, posing a risk of being cut off, so vigilance is essential, especially with children. It’s not suitable for swimming due to the Thames’ fast currents, pollution risks (including sewage), and designation as a busy inland waterway. The Port of London Authority (PLA) discourages swimming for safety reasons.

St Saviour's Dock

Nearby St. Saviour’s Dock, a small tributary, is notable as the former site of Jacob’s Island, a notorious Victorian slum featured in Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist

Mud Larking

Mudlarking (scavenging for historical artefacts) is popular but requires a Thames Foreshore Permit from the Port of London Authority (PLA). Without a permit, searching or removing items from the foreshore is illegal to protect its archaeological value.

Bermondsey Beach is less fruitful for mudlarking compared to other sites like Rotherhithe, Wapping, or Greenwich, with fewer finds like clay pipes or pottery.

Activities and Attractions

The beach is a peaceful spot to relax and escape the city’s hustle, offering a unique perspective of London’s skyline. It’s ideal for walking, photography, or enjoying the riverside ambiance.

Nearby attractions include Shad Thames’ cobbled streets and iron bridges, Butler’s Wharf.

Safety and Practical Tips

- Wear sturdy shoes due to the rocky terrain and potential hazards like glass or sewage-related risks (e.g., Weil’s disease).

- Dogs and children are allowed, but close supervision is necessary due to the river’s dangers and regulations.

- Benches along the Thames Path provide a place to wait if the tide is high.

- Avoid visiting during or after heavy rain, as London’s Victorian sewer system can release untreated sewage into the Thames, worsening water quality.

Parting Comments

Bermondsey Beach offers a unique, semi-wild experience in central London. You'll get a sense of history, nature, and urban views all blended into one.

I'd recommend it because it's not a typical beach destination. However, it's a fascinating spot for those interested in London’s past or seeking a quiet riverside escape.

Please note, if you plan to mudlark, I'd invite you to check the Port of London Authority’s regulation to preserve the foreshore's heritage. Additionally, double check tide times and ensure safety, as the Thames’ tidal nature can be unpredictable.

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