This week is London Rivers Week running from 30 May to 8 June, and this year’s theme — “Quality Rivers for All” — is a reminder of the role rivers play in Londoners’ lives: as natural habitats, sources of calm, cultural heritage, and places of play and restoration.
Backed by organisations including Thames21, the Environment Agency, South East Rivers Trust and local community groups, the goal is to reconnect people with the city’s vast and varied network of rivers. Many were once buried or neglected, but are now slowly being brought back to life through restoration, conservation, and creative community engagement.
For Putney residents, there are four standout events within easy reach, each offering a different way to engage with rivers — spiritually, socially, and ecologically.
1. Honouring Mama Osun – River Ritual and Clean-Up in Battersea
Sunday 1 June, 12:30–3:30pm
Slipway beside St Mary’s Church, Battersea SW11 3NA
Free event – registration required
A unique and vibrant event that combines ritual, music, clean-up and celebration. Inspired by the Yoruba tradition, this annual offering honours Mama Osun, the river deity of fertility, joy and abundance. The event includes a short riverside clean-up, followed by a communal ceremony involving drumming, singing, and the offering of flowers, fruits and sweets to the River Thames. Attendees are encouraged to wear white or yellow, bring musical instruments and come with family.
2. Summer Tree Walk – Exploring Riverside Trees in Barnes
Monday 3 June, 6:00–7:30pm
Meet on the Barnes side of Hammersmith Bridge
Free guided walk – registration encouraged
Join Barnes Common Limited for an evening stroll along the Thames towpath to discover the rich mix of trees growing along the river — including a nationally significant group of rare female Black Poplars. The walk will explore local efforts to boost biodiversity and protect native tree species, with expert insights into the habitat and heritage of this stretch of riverside.
3. Calm Water Café – Reflective Space by Beverley Brook
Friday 6 June, 12:00–3:00pm
Under the willow trees on Barnes Green
Drop-in event – registration optional but helpful
Step away from the noise and spend a peaceful moment by the Beverley Brook, a tributary of the Thames that winds quietly through Barnes. Hosted by Community Bluescapes, this gentle gathering invites visitors to enjoy a tea or coffee, sit in silence, or join in friendly conversation. There’ll also be stalls with information on nature reserves, flood resilience, and local volunteering opportunities.
4. Wandle Discovery Day – Guided Walk on the River Wandle
Saturday 8 June, 10:30am–1:00pm
Meet at King George’s Park, Wandsworth (Norden Mews SW18 2SS)
Free event – registration required
Join Thames21 for an engaging walking tour along the River Wandle, one of South London’s most historic and dramatically restored rivers. The walk will explore biodiversity, urban restoration efforts, and the stories of local people who’ve helped bring this once-buried river back to life.
Putney: Connect to the River, Any Day
If you can’t make it to the events, Putney still offers plenty of ways to experience the Thames during Rivers Week:
- Walk the Thames Path
Head east from Putney Bridge toward Wandsworth or west toward Barnes for one of the most scenic and accessible stretches of riverside path in London. Perfect for a quiet walk, birdwatching, or a cycle ride. - Discover the Putney Sculpture Trail
Featuring nine works by British sculptor Alan Thornhill, this free outdoor gallery winds along the riverbank between Leader’s Gardens and Wandsworth Park — blending art, landscape, and contemplation. - Take Note of the Tides
Putney’s riverside is tidal, and at low tide, the foreshore reveals silt, shells, and old debris — a reminder of the Thames’ ever-changing nature. Pause at Putney Pier or the slipway to observe the water’s rhythm and the busy activity of rowers and wildlife.
A Week to Remember Why Rivers Matter
As London faces rising heat, dense development, and unequal access to green space, London Rivers Week calls attention to rivers as lifelines — for ecosystems and for communities. In and around Putney, the Thames and its tributaries offer not just scenery, but a chance to reconnect with nature, history, and each other.
More events and details: thames21.org.uk/london-rivers-week-2025
