In this episode of the Southwark Cathedral Podcast, Sub Dean Michael Rawson speaks with author and renowned mudlark Lara Maiklem about uncovering the hidden stories of the tidal Thames.

From its origins among Victorian river scavengers to today’s thriving community of mudlarks, Lara explores how objects revealed by the river’s tides offer remarkable insights into London’s past. She shares some of her most memorable discoveries, including Roman hairpins, Tudor shoe soles and medieval pilgrim badges that shed light on Southwark’s rich history and its connections to pilgrimage.

Their conversation also examines the changing health of the Thames, the impact of plastic pollution, and the ways in which mudlarking helps people connect with history, place and one another. Together, they reflect on how the river continues to reveal stories that belong to us all.