Did you know that there’s a giant Hippo in the Thames right now? The wooden sculpture, known as Hippopo Thames, landed in the river recently. It’s huge and measures 21 meters long.
This unusual model can be found semi-immersed in the water at Riverside Gardens, Nine Elms Lane in South East London.
It’s going to be around until Sunday 28th September, so there’s enough time to take the kids to see this free artwork this weekend. Adults too!
You will be able to see the model from Vauxhall Bridge as well.
So why has the giant Hippo landed in the Thames?
Florentijn Hoffman, the Dutch Artist, is well known for his large sculptures. The Hippopo Thames design (by Hoffman) has been inspired by the pre-historic existence of hippopotamus that used to live in the Thames.
Its presence is part of the ongoing Thames Festival taking place in London presently. So this is a good time to enjoy the view of the Thames!
http://totallythames.org/events/info/florentijn-hofman
It’s great to see London making the most of it’s waterways.
Good read Bola. …I cant believe that the Hippo is there, as I drive over Vauxhall bridge almost every day..maybe because im always in a mad rush to work..lol…
I look forward to see it tomorrow whilst stuck in traffic
Thanks Denise. You can easily miss it when driving, but if you are stuck in the traffic, you will notice the Hippo. Look to the right when heading towards Pimlico. Kids will love it!
Completely adorable!! I can only imagine that it created a bit of a stir in the beginning! Laugh… So much fun to see this if you cross that bridge every day
I hope to see this adorable Hippo in my travels this weekend before it leaves the Thames. 🙂
That’s really hilarious!
It’s absolutely hilarious Eve!
Super – too bad it can’t stay there for good – we all need something to laugh about. Thanks for sharing this.
Lenie
Really wish it could stay longer. 🙂
Sounds like a fabulous festival and the hippo adds to the beauty of the gardens and the waterway.
The hippo has changed the view of the river.
I really do love the visual elements to this site and the information that does go along with each attraction in London. Well done, keep up the good work. You’re doing a fantastic job xX
Thanks Jenne. Really glad you love the visuals! xx
Wow. I am so gullible that I thought there really was one. 🙂 Cool.
Apparently there used to be real hippos in the Thames many years ago!:)