North Greenwich Pier
Modern Thames gateway where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture and entertainment.
North Greenwich Pier is a modern floating pier on the River Thames in southeast London, serving as a vital transport hub and gateway to The O2 arena and Greenwich Peninsula. Built in 1997 on the site of a historic 1880s coaling jetty, the pier features striking contemporary design with an 87-metre bowstring ramp and retains eight original cast iron columns from its industrial past. Operating daily from early morning to late night, it connects travelers via river boat services to central London, Westminster, and beyond, while also providing access to shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.
A brief summary to North Greenwich Pier
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early for O2 events to avoid peak queues; the pier operates special post-show express services on select event nights, making departure smoother than standard services.
- Use Park & Glide tickets combining river travel with all-day parking at The O2's car park for convenient multimodal journeys from outer London.
- Visit Antony Gormley's Quantum Cloud sculpture at sunrise or sunset for striking photography; the wire-frame figure transforms dramatically with changing light.
- Check the timetable before traveling; weekend services begin later (08:40) than weekday services (06:30), and last boats depart significantly earlier on weekends.
- Combine your pier visit with NOW Gallery's free contemporary art exhibitions and the nearby Greenwich Peninsula's diverse dining and shopping venues for a full day experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
London Underground (Jubilee Line)
North Greenwich Station is a 10-minute walk from the pier. The Jubilee line provides direct connections to central London: Westminster (13 minutes), London Bridge (9 minutes), Canary Wharf (1 minute), and Bond Street (17 minutes). Step-free access available with assistance from Canary Wharf interchange to other accessible stations.
-
River Boat Services
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers operates regular services from North Greenwich Pier. Commuter catamarans run to Woolwich Arsenal, Greenwich, Canary Wharf, Tower, and Westminster piers (journey times 20–45 minutes depending on destination). Services operate weekdays 06:30–00:10 and weekends 08:40–23:00. Single fares approximately £3.50–£9.00 depending on zones traveled; Oyster and contactless payment accepted.
-
IFS Cloud Cable Car (Emirates Air Line)
The cable car station is adjacent to North Greenwich Pier, providing scenic crossing to Royal Docks and ExCeL London on the north bank. Journey time approximately 10 minutes. Fares approximately £4.50 one-way or £7.00 return; Oyster and contactless payment accepted. Operates daily with extended hours during events.
-
Bus and Car Park
North Greenwich Bus Station connects directly to the pier with local and regional services. The O2's car park offers 567 spaces (including 11 disabled bays), open 24/7. Park & Glide tickets combining parking and river travel are available, typically £15–£20 depending on duration. Uber services also regularly operate in the area.
North Greenwich Pier location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about North Greenwich Pier
From Industrial Heritage to Modern Gateway
North Greenwich Pier stands on a site steeped in London's industrial past. Originally constructed in the 1880s as a coaling jetty for the Greenwich gasworks, the pier served as a crucial supply point for fuel until the gasworks closed in the late 1980s. When the decision was made to redevelop the Greenwich Peninsula in the 1990s, most of the original structure was demolished in 1997. Rather than erasing history entirely, eight of the original cast iron caisson columns were preserved and integrated into the new design, anchoring the modern floating pier and creating a tangible link between past and present.Architectural Innovation and Engineering Excellence
The contemporary pier represents a bold statement in riverside design. Architect Richard Rogers Partnership, working with engineer Beckett Rankine and contractor Costain, created a structure that balances functionality with visual drama. The pier's most distinctive feature is its 87-metre long, 160-tonne bowstring canting brow—an unusually long ramp supported on just three bearings, a technical achievement that makes it stand out among Thames-side infrastructure. The floating design allows the pier to rise and fall with the tidal movements of the river, ensuring safe boarding and disembarking regardless of water levels.A Sculpture in the Landscape
Adding another layer of cultural significance, Antony Gormley's striking sculpture "Quantum Cloud" stands on the downstream group of the original cast iron columns. Created in 1999, this abstract wire-frame figure has become an iconic landmark visible from across the peninsula, embodying the site's transformation from industrial utility to contemporary cultural space. The sculpture serves as a visual anchor for the pier and a meditation on human presence within the urban landscape.River Transport Hub and Daily Operations
Today, North Greenwich Pier functions as one of London's busiest river transport terminals, operated by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. Services run seven days a week, with weekday operations beginning at 06:30 and extending until 00:10, while weekend services run from 08:40 to 23:00. The pier accommodates multiple boat services, including regular commuter catamarans connecting Woolwich Arsenal, Greenwich, Canary Wharf, and Tower piers to central London destinations, as well as the rapid O2 Express service for event attendees. During London Underground maintenance closures, replacement boat services operate from the pier to East India DLR station, ensuring continuity of transport links across the city.Gateway to Entertainment and Culture
Positioned immediately adjacent to The O2 arena, one of the world's most visited entertainment venues, North Greenwich Pier serves as the primary water-based entry point for concert-goers, sports fans, and cultural visitors. The surrounding Greenwich Peninsula has undergone extensive regeneration, now offering over 25 bars and restaurants, a multiplex cinema, bowling facilities, trampolining centers, and the ICON Outlet shopping complex. The pier's location also provides convenient access to NOW Gallery, a free contemporary art space showcasing photography, fashion, and design. For those seeking broader cultural experiences, the pier connects to Greenwich's historic attractions including the Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory, and National Maritime Museum, all accessible via onward transport links.Seamless Connectivity and Accessibility
North Greenwich Pier integrates seamlessly into London's multimodal transport network. North Greenwich Underground station on the Jubilee line sits just a 10-minute walk away, providing rapid connections to central London destinations including Westminster (13 minutes), London Bridge (9 minutes), and Canary Wharf (1 minute). The nearby IFS Cloud Cable Car (formerly Emirates Air Line) offers a scenic crossing to the Royal Docks and ExCeL London. North Greenwich Bus Station provides local and regional coach services, while dedicated car parks with over 550 spaces accommodate visitors arriving by vehicle. Contactless payment and Oyster cards are accepted for all river services, and step-free wheelchair access with crew assistance ensures the pier welcomes all travelers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anchor Iron Wharf
1.9 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
2.1 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Trafalgar Tavern
2.1 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
2.4 km
A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
2.7 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
2.9 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
3.3 km
Explore the Wernher Collection at Ranger's House, a historic art museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing exquisite art and cultural treasures.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
3.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
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.
Execution Dock
4.2 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.6 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.6 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.8 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.9 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Montague Square
5.1 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Emirates Aviation Experience
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of piloting iconic aircraft and explore the fascinating world of commercial aviation in London’s Emirates Aviation Experience.
Up at The O2
0.3 km
Climb the iconic roof of The O2 for an exhilarating 90-minute adventure with stunning 360° views over London’s skyline.
o2
0.3 km
Experience world-class concerts, sports, and entertainment at London's iconic O2 Arena, a vibrant hub on the Greenwich Peninsula.
The O2
0.4 km
London’s premier entertainment destination blending world-class concerts, sports, dining, and vibrant nightlife under one iconic dome.
City Hall
0.8 km
Explore London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a beacon of sustainable governance and modern architecture in the vibrant Royal Docks.
Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park - TCV
0.9 km
A tranquil urban oasis on the Greenwich Peninsula, offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful freshwater landscapes in the heart of London.
Greenwich
1.0 km
Where time begins: stand on the Prime Meridian, explore maritime history, and enjoy panoramic views over the Thames in this UNESCO World Heritage riverside district.
The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in London
1.4 km
Step into the iconic sets of FRIENDS at Excel London and relive your favourite moments with immersive exhibits, photo ops, and exclusive merchandise.
Billingsgate Market
1.6 km
Explore Billingsgate Market, London’s historic and largest inland fish market, bustling with fresh seafood and rich maritime heritage.
Mudchute Park and Farm
1.7 km
Discover 32 acres of urban countryside, rare breeds, and family-friendly farm life in the heart of East London’s Isle of Dogs.
Cutty Sark
1.9 km
Explore the world’s fastest 19th-century tea clipper, a historic maritime marvel docked in Greenwich with immersive exhibits and stunning river views.
Royal Docks
2.2 km
Discover London's Royal Docks: a vibrant waterfront district blending panoramic views, water activities, and cultural innovation in East London.
Canary Wharf
2.3 km
A striking blend of towering skyscrapers, rich history, and vibrant urban life at London’s premier financial district on the Isle of Dogs.
West India Quay
2.3 km
Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel
2.3 km
Step beneath the Thames through a century-old pedestrian tunnel linking historic Greenwich with the modern Isle of Dogs.
Essential places to dine
Midpoint Restaurant
1.9 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
2.0 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Goddards at Greenwich
2.6 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
2.6 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Pho Street
2.6 km
Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
2.7 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
2.7 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
3.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
3.2 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Da Terra Restaurant
5.5 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
5.9 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Restaurant Story
6.0 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
6.0 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
La Dame de Pic London
6.1 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Painted hall gift shop
2.3 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Rare Books & Curios
2.6 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
2.6 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.
Arc Angel Boutique London
2.6 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
2.6 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Joli Vintage Living
2.6 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
Made in Greenwich
2.7 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 Cutty Sark Gift Shop
2.7 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
3.1 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
3.5 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Unique Store
4.4 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
Westfield Stratford City
4.6 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Westfield Stratford City, London's premier destination for fashion, food, and fun.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.9 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
Backyard Market
5.9 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
Fashion St
6.0 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Greenwich
0.3 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
0.6 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
Td 338 Bar
0.8 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.7 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
The Gipsy Moth
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.8 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
2.9 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
The Lost Hour
3.0 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
The Midnight Apothecary
4.3 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Satan's Whiskers
5.4 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
The Sun Tavern
5.4 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.7 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
Drink At Bob's
5.8 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour
5.8 km
Discover a unique blend of cocktail culture and museum curiosities at The Last Tuesday Society & Absinthe Parlour in London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
American Express Invites Lounge
0.4 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
0.6 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
LA Lounge
0.7 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
CQ LOUNGE
2.7 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
The Bunker
3.9 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Hatch Club
4.3 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
4.3 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
E1
4.9 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Club 701
5.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
The Hoxton Pony
6.7 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Basing House - Shoreditch
6.7 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
Trafik
6.8 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
The Steel Yard
6.9 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
XOYO LONDON
7.0 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
Corsica Studios
7.5 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- 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
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
