Get active on the Wandle

Once upon a time the Wandle Valley was open country, with willows and water meadows, kingfishers and dragonflies, and famously plentiful trout.

From early times water mills flourished along the river. At the end of the 17th Century French Protestant refugees found the power of the water and its quality ideal for the trades they brought with them. Industries such as silk weaving, copper engraving, hat making, fabric printing, bleaching and dyeing flourished. Eventually, there were some 50 water mills along the Valley, and this became known as the world's most industrialised river.

About 1800, plans were made to build a canal to carry goods along the valley. What emerged instead, in 1803, was the first public railway in the world, the Surrey Iron Railway.

Although the original industries are now gone, the Wandle Valley remains one of London's main industrial centres. The Mayor of London has highlighted it as a key area for regeneration and economic growth. We need to ensure that new development respects and restores the environment, so that the river Wandle can once more become central to the life of South London.

Today the Wandle Valley is a precious chain of green spaces, there for everyone to enjoy. Unsightly areas are being improved, wildlife is returning. Access is being improved, withthe creation and upgrading of the Wandle Trail for cyclists and walkers.

More and more people are exploring and enjoying the Wandle throughout the year. Come along to the Festival and see what is available right on your doorstep. Join in the fun and get active on the Wandle.