Cutty Sark: The Legendary Tea Clipper of Greenwich

A Maritime Marvel of the 19th Century

Cutty Sark was launched in 1869 as a British clipper ship designed to transport tea from China to London. At 212.5 feet long, it was built for speed and efficiency, capable of reaching speeds up to 17.5 knots. Its sleek hull and copper sheathing minimized drag and protected the wooden frame from marine growth, making it the fastest ship of its era. The Cutty Sark represents the pinnacle of sailing technology before steamships took over global trade routes.

Exploring the Ship’s Historic Spaces

Visitors to Cutty Sark can access multiple decks, including the Captain’s Cabin, crew quarters, and the main deck where the rigging and sails once dominated the skyline. A highlight is the suspended hull walkway, allowing a rare view beneath the ship’s copper bottom. The museum’s design preserves the ship’s original structure while incorporating modern accessibility features such as lifts and virtual access for wheelchair users. Interactive exhibits bring to life the stories of the crew, the challenges of high-seas navigation, and the ship’s role in the tea and wool trades.

Immersive Experiences and Family Activities

Cutty Sark offers engaging activities for all ages, including volunteer-led talks and tours that animate the ship’s history. Families can enjoy dedicated children’s exhibits and facilities such as buggy parking and baby-change rooms. For a special treat, the Cutty Sark Café serves traditional British fare and cream teas beneath the ship’s hull, blending culinary delight with maritime ambiance. Adventurous visitors may opt for the rigging climb, a guided ascent into the ship’s mast for panoramic views and a taste of sailor life.

Greenwich’s Historic Maritime Quarter

Situated in the heart of Greenwich, Cutty Sark is part of a rich maritime heritage area that includes the Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum, and Greenwich Park. Its riverside location offers stunning views of London’s skyline across the Thames. The ship’s presence anchors Greenwich’s identity as a center of naval history and exploration, making it a must-visit landmark for history buffs and cultural travelers alike.

Access and Visitor Information

Open daily from 10am to 5pm with last entry at 4:15pm, Cutty Sark welcomes visitors year-round. Tickets can be booked online, with discounts available for children, students, and concession holders. The site is wheelchair accessible, with lifts and virtual tours to ensure inclusivity. Public transport options include the nearby Cutty Sark DLR station, Greenwich and Maze Hill train stations, and riverboat services. Limited parking is available near the National Maritime Museum during weekends and holidays.

Preserving a National Treasure

Cutty Sark is managed by Royal Museums Greenwich and stands as a protected historic landmark. Its conservation involves ongoing restoration to maintain the ship’s structural integrity and historical authenticity. The museum’s educational programs and events continue to promote maritime heritage, inspiring new generations to appreciate Britain’s seafaring legacy and the global impact of the tea trade.