Discover the Woolwich Foot Tunnel: A Unique Passage Under the Thames
Explore the Woolwich Foot Tunnel, a historic pedestrian zone connecting Woolwich and Greenwich beneath the River Thames.
A brief summary to Woolwich Foot Tunnel North
- Woolwich Foot Tunnel, London, E16 2JN, GB
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
The Woolwich Foot Tunnel is a fascinating pedestrian corridor that runs beneath the River Thames, linking the areas of Woolwich and Greenwich. This historic tunnel, completed in 1912, was built to facilitate foot traffic across the river, allowing locals and visitors alike to traverse this busy waterway with ease. Walking through the tunnel, you will find well-maintained staircases on both ends, and the long, arched passage is adorned with historical features and artistic elements that pay homage to its storied past. The atmosphere within the tunnel is unique, offering a calm respite from the bustling streets above. As you make your way through, take a moment to appreciate the echoing sounds and the gentle lighting that illuminates the path. The tunnel is not only a practical route but also a wonderful opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the essence of London from a different perspective. Once you emerge on the other side, you will find yourself in Greenwich, a vibrant area brimming with parks, markets, and attractions such as the famous Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Woolwich Foot Tunnel is a must-visit spot that adds a memorable chapter to your London adventure.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for a quieter experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique architectural features of the tunnel.
- Consider combining your visit with a trip to Greenwich for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Southend-on-Sea, take the A127 road towards London. Follow signs for the A13 and merge onto it. Continue on the A13 for approximately 20 miles, then take the exit toward Woolwich. Use the A205 (South Circular Road) and follow signs for Woolwich. Once in Woolwich, look for parking options near the Woolwich Foot Tunnel. Note that parking may incur a fee, typically around £1.50 per hour.
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Train
For public transportation, head to Southend Central Station. Take a train towards London Fenchurch Street. This journey will take approximately 50 minutes. Once you arrive at Fenchurch Street, change to the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) towards Woolwich Arsenal. After about 25 minutes, disembark at Woolwich Arsenal Station. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to Woolwich Foot Tunnel via the main road.
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Bus
You can also take the bus from Southend-on-Sea. Look for the bus services that head towards London, specifically those that stop at Woolwich. This journey may take around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Once you arrive at Woolwich, follow signs to the Woolwich Foot Tunnel, which is within walking distance from the bus stop.
Attractions Nearby to Woolwich Foot Tunnel North
- St Mary Magdalene Church, Woolwich
- Royal Arsenal Heritage Site
- James Clavell Square
- Guard House
- The Valley
- ExCeL London
- St Mary Magdalene
- Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park - TCV
- IFS Cloud Royal Docks
- City Hall
- IFS Cloud Greenwich Peninsula
- IFS Cloud Cable Car
- Peninsula Spire
- Indigo at The O₂
- Up at The O2
Landmarks nearby to Woolwich Foot Tunnel North
- Anchor Iron Wharf
- Queen's House
- Royal Observatory Greenwich
- National Maritime Museum Gardens
- Painted Hall
- Bellot Memorial Greenwich
- Cutty Sark Gardens
- Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
- Cutty Sark
- Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
- Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
- Shadwell Basin
- Execution Dock
- King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
- The Captain Kidd