We are excited to launch the Thames Integrated Data Explorer (TiDE)
TiDE is a free, interactive mapping platform that brings together over 450 datasets from 40 organisations across 9 data themes
From land and freshwater to coastal, intertidal and marine environments, explore the connections between our natural and built environments and see the bigger picture with TiDE. No specialist software, no sign-up, no cost. Visit thamesdataexplorer.co.uk to get started.
Have you ever wondered whether your local park sits in a flood zone? Which communities are most at risk from climate change? Which neighbourhoods have the least green space on their doorstep?
The answers usually exist. They’re just scattered across dozens of websites, often in formats that need specialist software to visualise. TiDE puts them in one place, ready to explore and view on a map straight away.
TiDE grew out of our work on the Greater Thames Estuary, but most of the datasets cover the whole of England, and some cover the UK and beyond. So it’s useful wherever you are in the country.
What you can do with TiDE
Find and preview data
Browse the Catalogue Explorer by 9 themes. Each dataset result provides useful information such as the dataset description, the organisation that owns the data, the original download link, and the correct attribution statement to use. You can also preview any dataset on a map instantly with one click.
Build a map
Add as many datasets as you need to the Map Explorer and build up a map that tells a certain story, revealing patterns and insights. You can interact with the datasets and inspect them with the help of useful mapping tools.
Spot the overlaps or gaps
Where datasets on a map converge is where ideas start. An area with potential for habitat creation near a neighbourhood with limited access to nature could offer opportunities for both biodiversity and community wellbeing. A neighbourhood with high summer temperatures and little tree cover could be a priority for exploring where additional planting might help reduce heat and simultaneously improve access to green space.
Go to the source
Every dataset links straight to its original publisher, so you always get the authoritative download or overview page and can explore related resources.
Who it’s for
Community groups, councillors, ecologists, planners, teachers, students, curious residents and specialists from every discipline. If you’ve ever needed a map to make a case or simply understand your area better but found traditional mapping software unnecessarily technical, TiDE is for you.
What’s next?
Every week for the next three weeks, we’ll share a map built with TiDE that reveals something interesting about our environment, with a link so you can open it and explore it yourself. Keep an eye on our social media and this blog so you don’t miss them.
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