The Hidden River Effra and the Stink Pipes
Sat 10 Jan
|Herne Hill Station
Come and learn all about the local river Effra which has disappeared from view but still flows beneath our feet in South London.


Time & Location
10 Jan 2026, 12:00 – 13:30
Herne Hill Station , London SE24 0JW, UK
About the event
Come and learn all about the local river Effra which has disappeared from view but still flows beneath our feet through South London on its way to meet the Thames at Vauxhall. Learn how the Victorians turned the river into a sewer and what the purpose of the mysterious green Stink Pipes which sporadically appear on our streets, are for. The tour starts at Herne Hill Station and journeys through Herne Hill and Brixton, telling of interesting
local history related to the river route and pointing out landmarks of the neighbourhood. The walk will end outside at Brixton Police Station, just a few minutes walk from Brixton Tube Station.
The tour is Dog friendly providing your dog is happy to be in busy, central Brixton
Suitable for those on wheels
Public Toilets towards the end of the walk
