London Sheep Drive 2025: Celebrity Herding on Southwark Bridge
London’s quirky annual Sheep Drive returns on September 28th, 2025! This unique event sees 50 North of England Mule sheep herded across Southwark Bridge by Freemen of the City and a celebrity guest. The tradition, though only a decade old, is a playful nod to Smithfield Market’s history, when sheep were driven across London Bridge. Freemen, historically exempt from bridge tolls, continue this tradition, raising money for charity and celebrating wool’s sustainable uses. Past celebrity participants include Damian Lewis (2024), Alan Titchmarsh, Mary Berry, Mark Rylance, and the late Barbara Windsor, adding a touch of star power to this unusual spectacle. The event is more than just a sheep drive; it includes a Livery Fair showcasing woolen goods, sheep shearing demonstrations, and food vendors. The sheep, selected from a Bedford farm, undergo media training, ensuring a calm and comfortable experience for both them and the large crowds. The event is free for spectators, who can watch the herding from 10 am to 4 pm on Southwark Bridge. While participation in the herding is limited to Freemen, the public is welcome to enjoy the festivities and the unique atmosphere of this beloved London tradition. The identity of the 2025 celebrity guest remains a secret, adding to the anticipation surrounding this year’s event. The success of the drive, according to those involved, lies in having calm sheep, a testament to the careful planning and preparation that goes into this unusual and entertaining event.
(Source: https://londonist.com/london/things-to-do/sheep-drive-city-of-london-southwark-bridge)
