London Rivers Week 2026: River soundwalk led by afromerm

Join a free community listening walk that traces the Thames riverside from Rotherhithe to Deptford as part of London Rivers Week 2026.

Move your body, listen to your surroundings, and meet new people.

A soundwalk is, as Hildegard Westerkamp described in 1974, “any excursion whose main purpose is listening to the environment.” More recently, writers such as Allie Martin and ameia camielle smith have reimagined soundwalking as a decolonial practice that we can use to reconnect with our environment.

What to expect: As a group, we’ll walk at a gentle pace, tuning into the layers of sound that shape the Thames path, from the obvious to the overlooked. Soundwalking is an opportunity to slow down and share the experience of deep listening in community.

afromerm will guide the group, offering prompts along the way, whether it’s listening for specific sounds, trying to listen in silence, or discussing observations with the group.

What to wear: anything comfortable/weather appropriate + comfortable shoes you can walk in for an extended period.

What to bring: a bottle of water and, if you like, a sound recording device (voice notes on a phone work well).

Meeting point to be confirmed nearer the event.

afromerm is a sound artist and composer from South London.

Book your place here.

All U18s must be accompanied by an adult.