Cutty Sark: The Legendary Tea Clipper of Greenwich
Explore the world’s fastest 19th-century tea clipper, a historic maritime marvel docked in Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
Cutty Sark, located in Greenwich, London, is the world's only surviving tea clipper and an iconic maritime museum. Built in 1869, this historic ship offers visitors a unique glimpse into 19th-century seafaring life, with access to the captain’s cabin, crew quarters, and the chance to walk beneath its gleaming copper hull. The museum also features interactive exhibits, talks, and a café beneath the ship, making it a captivating experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Cutty Sark
- 4-6 Ballast Quay, London, SE10 9PD, GB
- +442088583146
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-11 pm
- Friday 11 am-11 pm
- Saturday 11 am-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid queues, especially during peak seasons.
- Visit midday or on weekdays for a quieter experience and better opportunities to explore the ship comfortably.
- Don’t miss walking beneath the suspended hull to admire the ship’s copper sheathing and engineering.
- Try the Cutty Sark Café for traditional British sandwiches and cream teas, located beneath the ship’s hull.
- Take advantage of the volunteer-led talks and audio guides available in multiple languages for deeper insights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, a short walk from the museum. Trains run frequently from central London, with journey times around 20–30 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £3–£6 depending on the starting zone.
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Train
Use Southeastern train services to Greenwich or Maze Hill stations, both about a 10–15 minute walk to Cutty Sark. Trains depart regularly from London Bridge and Cannon Street stations, with fares around £5–£8.
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River Bus
Board the Thames Clipper river bus at various piers including London Bridge or Embankment to Greenwich Pier, a 5-minute walk from Cutty Sark. Tickets range from £5 to £10. Service frequency varies but is generally every 20–30 minutes.
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Car Parking
Limited parking is available at the nearby National Maritime Museum car park, open mainly on weekends and holidays. Spaces can be reserved online in advance. Parking fees range from £10 to £20. Note that Greenwich roads can be congested and parking is scarce.
Cutty Sark location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cutty Sark
A Maritime Marvel of the 19th Century
Cutty Sark was built on the River Clyde in 1869 as one of the last and fastest tea clippers ever constructed. Measuring 212.5 feet in length, it was designed to transport tea from China to Britain and later carried wool from Australia, setting speed records on these routes. Its sleek design and copper-sheathed hull allowed it to achieve speeds up to 17.5 knots, making it a symbol of the golden age of sail. After its commercial career, the ship was preserved as a museum and has been berthed in Greenwich since 1954.Exploring the Ship and Its Legacy
Visitors to Cutty Sark can explore multiple decks, including the captain’s cabin and crew quarters, gaining insight into the lives of those who sailed her. One of the ship’s most striking features is the ability to walk beneath the suspended hull in the dry dock, showcasing the impressive copper construction. The museum also houses the world’s largest Merchant Navy figurehead collection and offers interactive exhibits, audio guides in several languages, and volunteer-led talks that bring the ship’s history to life.Restoration and Preservation
In 2007, Cutty Sark suffered significant fire damage during conservation work but was meticulously restored and reopened in 2012. The restoration preserved its historic character while enhancing visitor access with lifts and virtual tours for wheelchair users. The ship’s preservation is a testament to British maritime heritage and the dedication to maintaining this unique vessel for future generations.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The Cutty Sark Café, located beneath the hull on the lower ground deck, offers a range of British deli sandwiches, cakes, cream teas, and children’s dishes, exclusively for ticket holders. The museum is family-friendly with facilities such as baby-changing rooms, accessible toilets, and buggy parking. Regular talks, tours, and special events enrich the visitor experience, while a gift shop onboard sells maritime-themed souvenirs and books.Location and Surroundings
Situated on King William Walk in Greenwich, Cutty Sark is part of the Royal Museums Greenwich complex, close to other attractions like the National Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory. Its riverside location provides scenic views of the Thames and London’s skyline. The site is well connected by public transport, including the nearby Cutty Sark DLR station and Greenwich Pier.Access and Practical Information
The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, except for Christmas Eve through Boxing Day. Tickets are priced at £22 for adults and £11 for children aged 4–15, with discounts available for students and certain cardholders. Accessibility features include lifts to all levels and virtual access to areas not wheelchair accessible. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and avoid queues.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.0 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.6 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
0.6 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.9 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.5 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Montague Square
3.8 km
Discover Montague Square in London, a hidden gem offering tranquility and historical charm amidst the vibrant city life, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Execution Dock
4.2 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
4.2 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
International House
4.3 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.4 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.4 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
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.
Execution Dock House
4.5 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.8 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trinity Laban
0.5 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Painted Hall
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Naval College Gardens
0.6 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.
Queen's House
0.6 km
Discover England’s first classical building, the Queen's House in Greenwich, a timeless blend of royal history, art, and architectural brilliance.
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.6 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
0.7 km
Step beneath the Thames through a century-old pedestrian tunnel linking historic Greenwich with the modern Isle of Dogs.
Greenwich Pier
0.7 km
Historic Greenwich Pier offers scenic river cruises and easy access to London's maritime landmarks and vibrant cultural heritage along the Thames.
National Maritime Museum
0.7 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
0.7 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Greenwich Tourist Information Desk
0.7 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Cutty Sark
0.7 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 Market
0.8 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
5b Greenwich Market
0.8 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
0.9 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.9 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
Essential places to dine
Midpoint Restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.3 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Goddards at Greenwich
0.8 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
0.8 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
0.8 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
0.9 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
1.0 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
1.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
1.4 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.7 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
6.0 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.1 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Da Terra Restaurant
6.2 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Nomadic community
6.2 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
0.5 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Rare Books & Curios
0.8 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.8 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.8 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Joli Vintage Living
0.8 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.8 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.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.9 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.
Made in Greenwich
0.9 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.
The Junk Shop
1.2 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
1.7 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Unique Store
5.3 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.6 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
5.7 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower of London Shop
5.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
6.0 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Greenwich Town Social Club
0.6 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
The Gipsy Moth
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.9 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.
Td 338 Bar
1.1 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
The Lost Hour
1.2 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Mindful Mixology
1.2 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
All Bar One Greenwich
1.7 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
1.9 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Drink At Bob's
4.0 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Midnight Apothecary
4.0 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.9 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Nine Lives
6.0 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Sun Tavern
6.1 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
6.1 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
American Express Invites Lounge
1.8 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
1.9 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
The Bunker
2.1 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
LA Lounge
2.4 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
The Hatch Club
2.7 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
2.8 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
CQ LOUNGE
3.3 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Club 701
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
E1
4.9 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Steel Yard
6.8 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Corsica Studios
6.8 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
Ministry of Sound
7.0 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
7.0 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
7.2 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
7.2 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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly