MBNA Thames Clippers has partnered with the Illuminated River Foundation to host a series of special guided tours.
Illuminated River, the longest public art commission in the world, is transforming the capital with a unified light installations across central London’s bridges that will connect, celebrate and capture the spirit of the River Thames and its diverse communities.
The first four bridges – London, Cannon Street, Southwark and Millennium bridges are now lit and visitors to the capital can take a guided tour to experience the light installation from the river. City of London Guides and experts from Historic England will provide a unique insight into these landmarks of London.
Using the latest LED technology to ‘paint with light’, and taking influence from the natural and social activity of the river, Illuminated River artist Leo Villareal has produced sequenced patterns that subtly play across the bridge structures. The artwork engages specifically with the site of each bridge, respecting and revealing their distinctive histories and architectural features. The new lights also aim to reduce energy consumption by up to 50% on some of the major bridges compared to existing lighting schemes, and also reduces the amount of direct light into the river which can be harmful to fish populations.
Sean Collins, CEO of MBNA Thames Clippers said, “With this year marking 20 years of Thames Clippers, it is great to be part of the River Thames’ next phase with the arrival of the Illuminated River project. We’re excited to provide these new dedicated boat tours, in partnership with Illuminated River Foundation.”
The 30-minute Illuminated River tours will run from 29 August to 21 September, with departures from Tower Pier or London Bridge City Pier.
