Greenwich Pier: Riverside Gateway to Maritime Heritage
Scenic Thames ferry terminal linking historic Greenwich’s maritime treasures with vibrant river transport and iconic London views.
Greenwich Pier, located on the south bank of the River Thames in London’s historic Greenwich, serves as a vibrant ferry terminal and scenic arrival point. It offers easy access to iconic attractions such as the Cutty Sark, National Maritime Museum, Royal Observatory, and Greenwich Market, all within a short walking distance. The pier blends rich maritime history with modern river transport, making it a key hub for visitors exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.
A brief summary to Greenwich Pier
- Greenwich, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Purchase river cruise tickets online or use Oyster/contactless cards to save time and money.
- Visit nearby attractions like the Cutty Sark and National Maritime Museum, all within easy walking distance.
- Use the step-free access at the pier for wheelchair-friendly boarding.
- Enjoy panoramic views of London’s skyline from the open decks of riverboats departing Greenwich Pier.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Riverboat
Take the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers from central London piers such as Westminster or Tower Pier to Greenwich Pier. The journey typically lasts 20-30 minutes, with frequent daily departures. Tickets can be purchased online or via Oyster/contactless cards, costing approximately £7-£12 one way.
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DLR (Docklands Light Railway)
Use the Cutty Sark DLR station, a 5-minute walk from Greenwich Pier. Trains run frequently to and from central London, with journey times around 20-25 minutes. Standard Oyster/contactless fares apply.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Greenwich Pier area, including routes 177 and 188. Bus travel times vary from 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic. Standard London bus fares apply, payable by Oyster or contactless.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Greenwich, the pier is accessible on foot via flat, paved riverside paths. Walking times vary but expect 10-20 minutes from central Greenwich attractions. The terrain is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Greenwich Pier location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Greenwich Pier
A Historic Thames Gateway
Greenwich Pier has stood as a vital river transport hub since its original construction around 1836, catering initially to paddle steamers ferrying passengers along the Thames. Today, it continues this legacy as a bustling ferry terminal operated by Transport for London, connecting Greenwich with central London via modern riverboat services. Its location on the south bank of the Thames places it at the heart of Greenwich’s maritime heritage and cultural vibrancy.Proximity to Iconic Maritime Attractions
Just steps from the pier lies the legendary Cutty Sark, the world’s only surviving 19th-century tea clipper, now a museum showcasing Britain’s seafaring history. Nearby, the National Maritime Museum offers expansive galleries filled with stories of exploration and naval endeavour. The Royal Observatory, perched atop Greenwich Park, marks the Prime Meridian and anchors Greenwich’s global significance in astronomy and navigation. Greenwich Market, with its lively stalls of antiques, fashion, and street food, adds a bustling village atmosphere to the area.Scenic River Views and Transport Connections
From Greenwich Pier, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Thames and London’s skyline. River cruises departing here offer picturesque journeys past landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Shard, and the Houses of Parliament. The pier is well connected by public transport, with Cutty Sark DLR station nearby and multiple bus routes serving the area. Accessibility is a priority, with step-free access facilitating wheelchair users and families.A Hub for Exploration and Leisure
The pier acts as a gateway not only for sightseeing cruises but also for leisure activities along the river. Visitors can embark on hop-on hop-off river tours or enjoy dining cruises with onboard bars. The surrounding Greenwich Peninsula offers additional entertainment options, including The O2 arena and riverside parks, making the pier an ideal starting point for a full day of exploration.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Greenwich Pier sits amid a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its baroque architecture and historic landscapes. The nearby Old Royal Naval College, with its grand domes and Painted Hall, exemplifies this heritage. The pier itself, while functional, complements the area’s aesthetic with its riverside setting, inviting visitors to soak in the blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The atmosphere around Greenwich Pier is lively yet relaxed, blending the charm of a historic riverside village with the energy of a major transport hub. The sounds of the Thames, the sight of boats gliding past, and the backdrop of historic ships and buildings create an immersive experience. Whether arriving by boat or setting off on a cruise, the pier offers a memorable introduction to Greenwich’s unique character.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.1 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
0.3 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.4 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
City Hall
3.1 km
Discover London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a striking architectural landmark and vibrant hub of governance and public engagement on the Royal Docks waterfront.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.4 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
3.8 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
3.9 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.0 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.0 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.1 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.4 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
4.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
International House
4.8 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.1 km
A serene riverside park in Greenwich showcasing the historic Cutty Sark tea clipper and offering scenic Thames views and vibrant cultural connections.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel
0.1 km
Step beneath the Thames through a century-old pedestrian tunnel linking historic Greenwich with the modern Isle of Dogs.
Cutty Sark
0.1 km
Explore the world’s fastest surviving tea clipper, Cutty Sark, a historic maritime treasure in the heart of Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.2 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Trinity Laban
0.2 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Painted Hall
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Naval College Gardens
0.2 km
A tranquil riverside garden in Greenwich, framed by the Old Royal Naval College and offering views of the Cutty Sark and Canary Wharf across the Thames.
Greenwich Market
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
5b Greenwich Market
0.3 km
A historic covered market in Greenwich, London, brimming with artisan crafts, antiques, vintage finds, and global street food in a lively, community-focused setting.
1 Greenwich Church St
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
St Alfege Church
0.4 km
Discover over a millennium of history, architecture, and music at St Alfege Church, the heart of Greenwich’s spiritual heritage.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.4 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
National Maritime Museum
0.4 km
Explore Britain’s rich naval history at the world’s largest maritime museum, set in scenic Greenwich with free entry and engaging galleries for all ages.
National Maritime Museum Gardens
0.4 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
0.5 km
An intimate, candlelit basement jazz club in Greenwich where close-up live music and community atmosphere meet a well-stocked bar.
Essential places to dine
Goddards at Greenwich
0.3 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
0.3 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.4 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Pho Street
0.4 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
0.4 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.8 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.9 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
0.9 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.2 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
La Dame de Pic London
5.6 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
5.8 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
5.8 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
5.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Nomadic community
6.0 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
0.2 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.3 km
Dive into a candy wonderland on Greenwich Church Street, where British classics and global sweets make perfect edible souvenirs in London's historic heart.
Rare Books & Curios
0.3 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Made in Greenwich
0.3 km
Discover Greenwich's handmade heart: a not-for-profit haven where local makers' treasures shine, fueling community creativity one unique gift at a time.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.3 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.3 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Joli Vintage Living
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover maritime magic and London keepsakes at this Greenwich gem, brimming with Cutty Sark-inspired treasures and souvenirs just steps from the historic clipper ship.
The Junk Shop
0.7 km
Lose yourself in Greenwich's maze-like antique wonderland, where eclectic treasures, a cozy tearoom, and quirky finds await around every cluttered corner.
La Boutique Vintage
1.2 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.2 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Bermondsey Antique Market
5.2 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower of London Shop
5.5 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
5.6 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Hay's Galleria
5.7 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Gipsy Moth
0.2 km
Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.
Kings Arms
0.4 km
Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.
Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich
0.5 km
Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.
Mindful Mixology
0.6 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
The Lost Hour
0.6 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.2 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
1.6 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.2 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.2 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.6 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Drink At Bob's
3.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
Nine Lives
5.5 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.6 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
5.7 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Old School Yard
5.7 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bunker
1.5 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
2.0 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
The Venue
2.1 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
American Express Invites Lounge
2.2 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
2.3 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
2.9 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
3.9 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
4.5 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Corsica Studios
6.3 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
The Steel Yard
6.3 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
6.4 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
The Hoxton Pony
6.7 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
6.9 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
6.9 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly