Simon Armitage, the UK’s Poet Laureate, has crafted The Drift, a poem that now flows through Chelsea Waterfront’s new riverside development. Inspired by the movement of the River Thames, Armitage’s words mirror the water’s resilience, reflecting the development’s commitment to art, tranquility, and urban elegance. Designed by Sir Terry Farrell, Chelsea Waterfront spans 4.58 hectares, with its centerpiece - a new footbridge - embellished by Armitage’s verse.
Simon Armitage's Ode to the Chelsea Waterfront
Words by
Sphere Editors
7th February 2025
Poet Laureate Simon Armitage’s new poem The Drift graces Chelsea Waterfront’s new footbridge, blending poetry with architecture. Drift into the words below or see for yourself on the Chelsea Waterfront now.
The poem captures the essence of water's journey, from canals and weirs to the open river, symbolising the meeting point of nature and architecture. Armitage’s lines, like “The way divided water gathers together and mends - we can take something from that”, are elegantly etched into the bridge, inviting passersby to pause and reflect.
Simon Armitage on the Chelsea Waterfront bridge
The footbridge, which reopens a riverside route closed for over a century, connects key London areas while bringing poetry into public space. A QR code on the bridge lets visitors hear Armitage recite his poem, blending art with the everyday rhythm of the city. If you aren't able to access the QR code yourself, you can also watch the video of Armitage reciting the poem via this link.
The words of Simon Armitage's poem, The Drift, engraved on the Chelsea Waterfront bridge© Chelsea Waterfront
Chelsea Waterfront’s collaboration with Armitage turns the bridge into more than just a crossing - it's a permanent reminder of how art and nature can coexist, leaving a lasting legacy on London’s evolving landscape.
