London Rivers Week Photography Competition 2026
To celebrate London Rivers Week 2026, Thames21 is launching a photography competition that celebrates the beauty, diversity, and importance of London’s rivers and waterways.
Delivered with help from our friends at London National Park City, the competition invites photographers of all levels to capture the people, wildlife, and landscapes that make London’s rivers so special.
London Rivers Week is an annual campaign celebrating the capital’s waterways and the projects helping to protect and restore them.
London Rivers Week is organised by the London Rivers Week Steering Group on behalf of River Partnerships in London (RiPL). London Rivers Week is coordinated by Thames21 in collaboration with CPRE London, the Environment Agency, London Wildlife Trust, the South East Rivers Trust, the Thames Estuary Partnership, and ZSL.
Capture London’s Waterscapes
We’re looking for uplifting images that showcase the richness of London’s waterscapes – from sweeping river views and quiet canals to wildlife, historic waterside scenes, and people enjoying blue and green spaces.
Grab your camera or phone, explore the watery side of the capital, and share your perspective on this year’s theme:
“Know Your Local River.”
Competition Categories
You can enter up to three photographs (one per category). A winner will be chosen from each.
Where We Meet the Water
Images that show how people connect with rivers, canals and wetlands.
Wild by the Water
Wildlife, plants and biodiversity found along rivers and waterways.
The River Thames Through the Seasons
Capture how the River Thames changes across the year — from seasonal colours to weather, wildlife and community life.
Key Dates
📅 Entries close: Friday 1 May 2026
🏆 Winners announced: 26 May 2026 at the Leaside Centre by the River Lea
Enter the Competition
Entry is free, and photographers of all experience levels are welcome.
Submit your photographs and celebrate London’s rivers.
Enter the competition HERE.
Please view Terms and Conditions here.