A Visual Record Of The Thames

A Panorama that ensures a historical record for generations to come

Inspired by increasingly rapid changes along our river bank through London, a new project has created an enduring visual record of the Thames through continuous, high definition panoramic photography, both sides of the River, from Hampton to Tower Bridge, including the islands and all 33 bridges.

The panorama, which can be seen at a special viewing at Chiswick Pier in September, follows in a tradition set almost 200 years ago by publisher Samuel Leigh when, in 1829, he produced a 60ft water-coloured engraving of the river banks from Richmond to Westminster.

A digitally restored image of this rare fold-out Georgian guide now features on the project website, giving an amazing picture of change over nearly two centuries. The images from both eras will have insights and history attached to every interesting feature, available at a click, with information from historians and local organisations.

The project will ensure there is an enduring historical record for generations to come; invaluable for students, historians, the riparian boroughs, planners, builders and river users.

Picture shows Isleworth depicted in 1829 and 2014. Copyright of the Panorama of the Thames

Leading the project is John Inglis, who devised his unique technique when working on special effects in blockbuster films like Superman. The detail and clarity is astounding – take a journey along the Thames of 1829 and today, and see for yourselves on Chiswick Pier Trust’s new big screen.

A not-for-profit company has been set up specifically to produce the Panorama, and while this marathon undertaking by John and his project partners has received glowing endorsement from the likes of Boris Johnson, Lord Rogers, Vince Cable and Simon Thurley, financial sponsorship has been less forthcoming.

Anyone wishing to support the project can do so directly into the project bank account: Panorama of the Thames Limited, Sort code: 08-92-99, A/c No: 65699074.

The Thames Panorama, a free audio visual presentation, on Tuesday September 16th at 7.30pm at Chiswick Pier. Doors open at 7pm and the talk will start at 7.30pm. Tickets to CPT presentations are usually £3, but they have made this event FREE for everyone as the Trust want to encourage as many people as possible to see this wonderful project and, hopefully, be inspired to support it. Refreshments will be available.
For further information on the Pier and how to get there, contact the Chiswick Pier Trust 020 8742 2713 or log on at www.chiswickpier.org.uk.

The Thames Panorama, a free audio visual presentation, on Tuesday September 16th at 7.30pm at Chiswick Pier. Chiswick Pier House, Corney Reach Way, W4 2UG

June 20, 2014