Cutty Sark: The Legendary Tea Clipper of Greenwich

Explore the world’s only surviving tea clipper, a historic maritime marvel docked in Greenwich with immersive exhibits and unique experiences.

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The Cutty Sark is the world’s only surviving tea clipper, built in 1869 and now a captivating maritime museum in Greenwich, London. Visitors can explore its historic decks, walk beneath its gleaming copper hull, and discover the life of sailors who braved the high seas. With engaging exhibits, audio guides, and unique experiences like rig climbing and afternoon tea beneath the ship, the Cutty Sark offers a rich journey into maritime heritage along the River Thames.

A brief summary to Cutty Sark

King William Walk, London, SE10 9HT, GB
+442088584422
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid queues, especially during peak seasons.
Try the unique afternoon tea served beneath the ship’s copper hull for a memorable dining experience.
Take the rig climb for an adventurous perspective and stunning views from the ship’s mast.
Visit during weekday mornings or early afternoons to enjoy a quieter experience.
Use public transport like the DLR to Cutty Sark station for easy and convenient access.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, a 5-minute walk from the ship. Trains run frequently from central London, with journey times around 20-30 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £3-£5 depending on your starting zone.
Train

From central London, take a Southeastern train to Greenwich or Maze Hill stations, both about a 10-minute walk from the Cutty Sark. Trains run every 15-20 minutes and cost around £5-£7 for a single journey.
River Bus

Use the Thames Clipper river bus service to Greenwich Pier, a short 5-minute walk to the Cutty Sark. Services operate regularly with fares from £5-£8 depending on the route.
Car and Parking

Limited parking is available near the National Maritime Museum, open mainly on weekends and holidays. Booking in advance is recommended. Parking fees range from £10-£20. Note that central Greenwich parking is restricted and expensive, so public transport is preferred.

Cutty Sark location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Cutty Sark

A Maritime Marvel of the 19th Century

The Cutty Sark was launched in 1869 on the River Clyde, Scotland, as one of the last and fastest tea clippers ever built. Designed to transport tea from China to Britain, it was renowned for its speed, reaching up to 17.5 knots. The ship later switched to carrying wool from Australia, setting record times for this route. As steamships advanced, the Cutty Sark became obsolete for commercial use and was sold multiple times before being preserved as a historic vessel. Since 1954, it has been berthed in Greenwich, serving as a symbol of Britain’s rich seafaring legacy.

Exploring the Ship and Its Stories

Today, the Cutty Sark is a museum ship that allows visitors to immerse themselves in maritime history. You can walk on the deck and admire panoramic views of London’s skyline across the Thames. Below deck, explore the captain’s cabin, crew quarters, and engine room, all filled with artefacts and memorabilia that reveal life at sea in the 19th century. One of the ship’s unique features is the suspended hull, which visitors can walk beneath to appreciate the craftsmanship of its copper sheathing and wooden structure.

Restoration and Resilience

The Cutty Sark suffered significant fire damage in 2007 during conservation work but was meticulously restored and reopened in 2012. The restoration preserved the ship’s historic fabric while enhancing visitor access and experience. Today, it stands not only as a museum but also as a testament to resilience and dedication to preserving maritime heritage.

Interactive Experiences and Family Fun

Beyond static displays, the Cutty Sark offers interactive tours and talks led by volunteer explainers who bring the ship’s history to life. Families can enjoy child-friendly activities and facilities, including baby-change areas and accessible toilets. For those seeking adventure, the rig climb experience provides a thrilling opportunity to ascend part of the ship’s mast, offering a sailor’s perspective and fantastic photo opportunities.

Culinary Delights Beneath the Hull

The Cutty Sark Café, located on the lower ground deck beneath the ship’s gleaming copper hull, serves a variety of British deli sandwiches, fresh cakes, cream teas, and children’s dishes. This unique setting allows visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments surrounded by maritime ambiance, making it a perfect complement to the historical exploration.

Location and Accessibility

Situated on King William Walk in Greenwich, the Cutty Sark is easily accessible by public transport, including the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) at Cutty Sark station and nearby train stations at Greenwich and Maze Hill. The site is wheelchair accessible with lifts and virtual access to some areas. It operates daily from 10am to 5pm, except for Christmas closures. Tickets can be booked online in advance, with discounts available for children, students, and concession holders.