Mudlarking must dos: What you need to know while scouring the foreshore
Licensed mudlarkers share their tips on how to stay safe when combing the Thames foreshore:
Mudlarkers, and anyone else searching, metal detecting, ‘beachcombing’, scraping or digging along the foreshore must have a licence from the Port of London Authority.
All finds of historical significance need to be reported to the Portable Antiquities Scheme.
Any gold and silver objects, and groups of coins from the same spot, which are over 300 years old, are legally required to be reported.
Be safe - mudlarking can be dangerous if you do not take the correct precautions.
The steps down to the foreshore can be slippery and beware of hurting yourself.
The Thames does still contain raw sewage traces and this can cause health problems if it enters the body via cuts and scrapes.
Know your tide times to avoid being cut off from shore and always be aware of your exits.
