This September, explore one of London’s best-kept secrets at Gabriel’s
Wharf Arts Festival. Taking place on Saturday 14th September and Saturday 28th September (from
12pm to 6pm) this FREE event celebrating arts and culture, invites guests to discover the charm of
Gabriel’s Wharf.
Located on the scenic Thames Walkway between the National Theatre and Oxo Tower Wharf, Gabriel’s
Wharf is a hidden corner of London brimming with creativity.
Its fascinating history is tied to a community that, out of frustration with private development, led a
remarkable campaign which resulted in the purchase of a 13-acre site that everyone could enjoy.
Originally established in the 1980s as a cultural space to support small art, design and craft
businesses, Gabriel’s Wharf remains home to a variety of artisan shops and galleries alongside a
selection of independent eateries.
This festival is a must-visit for art lovers, families, and anyone looking to discover a London secret
that’s been hiding in plain sight.
Festival Dates and Highlights:
Saturday 14th September will be centred around art. Three immersive workshops will run throughout
the day, where participants can create bunting and placards that will be displayed in Gabriel’s Wharf
throughout September. These workshops will be guided by a local artist as well as spoken word poet,
Tia Camilleri, who will help generate powerful messages that add an additional layer of meaning to the
artwork.
Saturday 28th September will be focused on live music. In addition to a diverse line-up of
professional musical acts, including singers, musicians and bands, there will also be performances
from a roaming Shakespearean troupe.
Across both days, roaming actors, musicians (and acrobats from Badoosh circus theatre company)
will be bringing Gabriel’s Wharf to life with impromptu performances – delighting guests with surprise
encounters. DJ duo, Double Agent 7, (renowned for playing floor-fillers exclusively on vinyl 45s) will
ensure a vibrant atmosphere while performances from comedians will bring additional smiles and
laughter.
Whilst enjoying the festival, guests can also browse the independent shops and meet the creative
makers who have made Gabriel’s Wharf their home (including Liz and Frances from Potters’ Yard Arts,
Lisette from Gabu Chocolate, and a wealth of other artists from Southbank Printmakers and Skylark
Galleries.
Gabriel’s Wharf Arts Festival is designed to grab attention and bring this often overlooked but beloved
part of London into the spotlight. With two jam-packed days of creativity, performance, and
community, it’s the perfect cure for post-Summer Holiday blues that will also give London locals and
visitors alike, a chance to explore a destination they may not even know exists
