The HERDS

An extraordinary public artwork meets a global design exhibition, as THE HERDS stampede into Somerset House this summer – home to London Design Biennale 2025. Their arrival marks the start of the Biennale's late opening until 9pm.

Part of an ambitious European-wide performance project created by The Walk Productions, THE HERDS brings a powerful procession of life-size puppet animals to the streets of London, confronting the climate emergency with art, movement and collective action.

As the herd journeys from Soho to Somerset House, they’ll encounter a striking collision of culture, creativity and protest. Along the way, they’ll cross paths with performers from the Royal Opera and cast members from the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Matilda The Musical, before arriving into the grandeur of Somerset House's courtyard

Crafted from biodegradable materials and representing species from across the globe, the herd grows city by city – with elephants, wildebeest, wolves and deer travelling together in a striking visual call to climate action.

This powerful moment will be visible to the public from the Strand Aldwych at approximately 4.45pm, with the herd arriving at Somerset House by 4.50pm.

No booking required. Outdoor performance, weather permitting.