A walking tour
charting the evolution of London's sanitation infrastructure
Join Open City to explore the past, present and future of London's sanitation infrastructure from the Great Stink of London in 1858 to the Tideway 'Super Sewer'
Led by — led by Golden Key Academy graduate and educator Petra Cox, this walking tour follows the final section of the southern outfall sewer across the Erith Marshes to the Crossness Pumping Station on the banks of the River Thames. Built by Sir Joseph Bazalgette and completed in 1865 as part of London’s first sewage system, Crossness is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture and engineering.
The tour outlines the development of the Crossness site over its 85 years in operation: from the impact of the Princess Alice disaster to the role of the Crossness Pier and 20th century solutions to London’s waste management.
The walk continues along the Thames riverside path to view the current sewage treatment works and discover how London’s sewage is processed today. Then it’s back to Crossness for refreshments, followed by a look at the Tideway exhibition models to discover the next chapter in the story of London’s sanitation before ending back at Lakeside Centre.
Highlights include Crossness Pumping Station, Precipitation Engine House and Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works.
Key Information
Meet: Outside Lakeside Centre, Southmere Lake, Bazalgette Way SE2 9AN
Duration 3 hours approx
Tour end: Lakeside Centre
Distance: 4 miles approx
The tour crosses undulating and rough grassland which can get muddy after rainfall. Please wear appropriate footwear and clothing.
Ticket cost: £5, with support from Thames Water.
Tickets are non refundable and tours go ahead rain or shine…Please get in touch with Adrianna at tours@open-city.org.uk for access requirements or queries.
Meet the tour guide…
Petra Cox has been delivering talks, tours and workshops at Crossness Pumping Station since 2016 and is fascinated by the pivotal role sanitation has played in the health of Londoners and the development of our city. Petra graduated from Open City’s Golden Key Academy in 2023. Petra joined the Open City tours team in 2024.