Why did the sheep cross the road?
The Annual Sheep Drive at Southwark Bridge
Last Sunday (28th September), Southwark Bridge swapped cars and Lime bikes for woolly traffic; the annual sheep drive was back. It is one of those centuries old London traditions, mostly unknown to the locals, unless they happen to be street photographers.
A (very) brief history lesson
Back in the day, London bridge (the only bridge across the Thames in London until 1750) used to charge a toll to cross, unless you were a “freemen of the city”. Who are they? Good question. I didn’t know either but after a quick google, I can say that they were either individuals who were granted the title for contributions to the city or to members who have joined a Livery company (think Medieval trade guilds).
The Woolmen’s Company exercised this right for centuries by driving their livestock across London Bridge. Today, the event happens at Southwark bridge (I assume to cause less congestion) and is to raise money for charity.
Want to know more about London bridge despite this event being on Southwark bridge? Give this a go.
Shooting the event
The drive starts around 10am but I would recommend getting there just before. That way you can get some interesting shots of the freemen/livery company fellows in their red coats (think posh superman cosplay). From 10 until 4 (I’ve never stayed that late), there will be drives up and down the bridge, so plenty of time to get any shot you’re after. People will flock around the drives but don’t sweat it if you miss one, the next herd won’t be too far off. On the North side of the bridge there are a few market stalls, sheep shearing and other activities from Livery Companies. It’s quite a small event, so expect to loop back and forth quite a bit.
I wasn’t there too long this year and I think photo wise, I got more interesting shots last year, despite it being colder. Should have worn more wool I guess. Baa-d planning. One for next time. If you fancy going to the event, shepherd yourself to Southwark bridge on a late Sunday in September.
