Finding the source of the River Peck

In Roman times, Southwark's claim to fame was that it was the largest of a set of gravel islands which lay to the south of a very wide River Thames. London Bridge was built to provide access to this island, whose eastern seaboard was defined by Earl's Sluice. Earls' Sluice enters the Thames at Deptford Wharf and, prior to the 13th century, when the Effra was diverted to run west from Kennington to join the Thames at Vauxhall, it was fed from the River Effra. This map depicts the river flows of these two lost rivers.

After meeting at Cutty Sark Gardens, our updated route takes us westwards along the Thames Path to find Earl's Sluice, which lies on the Deptford/Rotherhithe border. There is an historic bridge parapet and sewer outlet there now, opposite St George’s Square and stairs, visible on low tide ~8.30am. Earl's Sluice is one of London's lost rivers now, but we will be seeking out the pipe where Earl's Sluice emerges from underground to cross a railway line (still to be located). The River Peck, from which Peckham gets its name, is a tributary of Earl's Sluice. We will follow the path of this river up to Peckham Rye Park, where parts of the river emerge from underground culverts and form a stream which runs through the park. We will then seek out the source of the River Peck, which lies under the roots of the One Tree at One Tree Hill.

On our return journey, we will stop at the 9.4 mile point for a refreshment break at the Blackbird Bakery. We then cycle back along Quietway 1 to Cutty Sark Gardens, where this ride finishes.

This 13 mile ride has 517 feet of climbs. The steep climb up One Tree Hill will require walking up stairs with your bike on a 56 foot climb. This hill could be skipped by waiting along Brenchley Gardens for the group to return from the hill trek.

We have a feeder ride starting from the Stratford Velodrome at 8.30am and later returning to Stratford. Please also join that ride if you are coming to this ride from that direction.

This ride is based on a ride I attended in February 2017.

eBikes are welcome.

Children are welcome when accompanied by a responsible riding adult.

All participants are expected to bring:
• A bike in good working order with tyres pumped to the correct pressure.
• A cycle helmet
• Carry at least a spare inner tube, pump and tyre levers.
• A cycle lock for use at the refreshment stop,
• Dress for the weather on the day.
• A drink.
• Lights if there is any chance of poor visibility.

Ride Leader Contact: Yves – 07305 938171

Send a join request to the East End Cycling Club to keep up to date on our other rides. Ride pics are posted on the Facebook page.