The River Thames has shaped London for centuries, and every September the city celebrates this famous waterway with a month-long programme of art, culture, heritage and live performances.
Totally thames 2026 runs from 1 to 30 September, with events taking place on, beside and around the River Thames. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, performances, family activities, heritage events and river-inspired experiences across different parts of London.
For anyone planning a September break, the festival is a great opportunity to explore the capital beyond its usual tourist attractions.
What Is Totally Thames?
Totally Thames is an annual festival celebrating the River Thames and its importance to London’s history, culture, communities and environment.
The festival takes place throughout September and includes a wide range of activities such as:
- Art installations and exhibitions
- Live music and performances
- Heritage events
- Walking tours
- Theatre and dance
- Environmental activities
- Family-friendly events
Some events are free, while others require advance booking or paid tickets.
Unlike a traditional festival, Totally Thames does not take place at one venue. Events are spread across different locations, making it easy to combine them with a normal London sightseeing itinerary.
Main Events in September 2026
There are several interesting events taking place during the second half of September.
Turning the Tide – 17 to 20 September
One of the main visual-art highlights is Turning the Tide, a site-specific installation at Blackfriars Railway Bridge.
Films featuring Deaf and disabled young performers are projected onto the bridge columns, creating a striking outdoor artwork beside the Thames.
The event runs in the evening and is free to attend, making it a good choice for visitors interested in contemporary art and London architecture.
The Living Thames – 18 September
The Living Thames takes place at the historic Crossness Pumping Station.
The event combines classical music with sounds recorded along the Thames, including water, wildlife and the working river.
This ticketed performance offers visitors a different way to experience London’s relationship with the river.
Kids’ Choir – 19 September
Families can enjoy the Kids’ Choir 2026 on the West Steps of St Paul’s Cathedral.
More than 300 children from across London are expected to perform together in a free outdoor concert.
Its central location also makes it easy to combine with sightseeing around St Paul’s Cathedral, Millennium Bridge and the Thames.
Mudlarking Exhibition at St Paul’s Cathedral
The Hands on History: Mudlarking Exhibition takes place at St Paul’s Cathedral on 19 and 20 September 2026.
Visitors can see historical objects recovered from the Thames foreshore and learn more about London’s past through the artefacts discovered by mudlarks.
The exhibition is free to attend and is a good option for families and visitors interested in history.
Shakespeare’s The Tempest Aboard the Golden Hinde
During September, visitors can also experience Shakespeare’s The Tempest aboard the Golden Hinde.
The historic ship provides a fitting setting for a story involving storms and shipwrecks.
Visitors exploring London Bridge, Borough Market and Bankside can easily include the performance as part of a wider day in the area.
Nadī at the Brunel Museum – 24 September
Another cultural highlight is Nadī, a contemporary dance performance taking place at the Brunel Museum on 24 September.
Performed inside the historic Thames Tunnel Shaft, the work explores themes of memory, identity and resilience.
It is a good option for visitors looking for something different from London’s more traditional attractions.
More Events Later in September
The festival continues during the final week of the month with river-inspired music, sound installations, exhibitions and live performances.
Visitors can also find several free events throughout September, so enjoying the festival does not necessarily require buying tickets.
Because event times and availability can change, it is always best to check the official Totally Thames 2026 programme before travelling.
Is Totally Thames Suitable for Families?
Yes. Many events are suitable for families, including outdoor performances, exhibitions, heritage activities and riverside experiences.
Parents should still check individual event information before visiting, as some performances may have age restrictions or require advance booking.
Families can also combine festival events with popular London attractions, museums and parks.
How to Plan Your Festival Day
Because events are spread across London, it is best to plan your day by area.
For example, activities around Blackfriars, St Paul’s Cathedral and Millennium Bridge can easily be combined into one sightseeing day.
Events around London Bridge and Bankside can be visited alongside Borough Market and other riverside attractions.
Planning by location helps reduce unnecessary travel and gives you more time to explore each area.
Also Read: Explore Iconic London Attractions by the River Thames
Why Visit Totally Thames 2026?
One of the best things about the festival is that visitors do not need to plan their entire London trip around it.
You can choose one or two events that interest you and combine them with museums, parks, shopping and other attractions.
This makes the festival particularly suitable for visitors staying in London for several days and looking for something seasonal to add to their itinerary.
Where to Stay During Totally Thames 2026
As festival events take place at many different locations, staying close to useful public transport connections can be more practical than choosing accommodation beside one specific venue.
Kensington provides a convenient base for visitors who want to explore riverside London as well as the city’s major attractions.
Presidential Kensington serviced apartments are located just a short walk from Earl’s Court Underground Station, giving guests convenient access to Central London and different festival locations. The property offers studios, one-bedroom apartments and suites, making it suitable for short breaks as well as longer London visits.
Guests can enjoy apartment-style accommodation with kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and professional services. These features can be particularly useful for families, couples and travellers spending several nights in the capital.
Couples and smaller groups looking for a comfortable option can also explore the Deluxe Studio Apartment, which includes a kitchen, Wi-Fi and an en-suite bathroom.
Combine the Festival with Kensington Attractions
A September visit can include much more than river events.
Kensington is close to some of London’s most popular attractions, including:
- Natural History Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Science Museum
- Hyde Park
- Kensington Gardens
- Royal Albert Hall
- Kensington High Street
Visitors can spend one day exploring the Thames and another enjoying museums, parks and shopping in West London.
Make Your September London Stay Better Value
Travellers planning several days in London can benefit from choosing accommodation that offers more flexibility than a standard hotel room.
Presidential Apartments provides apartment-style living with space to relax and kitchen facilities that can make longer stays more convenient. The property also promotes direct-booking benefits and special rates on its website.
Before finalising your September trip, check the latest direct booking to find the most suitable rate for your dates. Current offers include discounts for longer stays, direct-booking promotions and other rate options.
