Greenwich Pier: Gateway to London's Maritime Heritage and Scenic Thames Cruises
Historic Greenwich Pier offers scenic river cruises and easy access to London's maritime landmarks and vibrant cultural heritage along the Thames.
Nestled on the south bank of the River Thames in historic Greenwich, Greenwich Pier serves as a vibrant ferry terminal connecting visitors to London's iconic riverside landmarks. Adjacent to the famed Cutty Sark and within walking distance of Greenwich Market, the Royal Observatory, and the National Maritime Museum, this pier offers scenic river cruises and easy access to a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in maritime history and culture.
A brief summary to Greenwich Pier
- Greenwich, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Buy tickets online or use contactless payment to save time when boarding river cruises at Greenwich Pier.
- Visit nearby attractions like the Cutty Sark and Greenwich Market, all within a short walking distance from the pier.
- Use the wheelchair-accessible facilities and step-free access at the pier for an easier boarding experience.
- Plan your visit to coincide with daylight hours to enjoy panoramic views of London’s skyline from the river.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Riverboat
Regular Uber Boat by Thames Clippers services connect Greenwich Pier with central London piers like Westminster and Tower Pier. Travel times range from 20 to 40 minutes depending on the route, with tickets costing approximately £7-£12 one way. Oyster and contactless cards are accepted for seamless boarding.
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DLR (Docklands Light Railway)
Cutty Sark DLR station is a 5-minute walk from Greenwich Pier, providing frequent services to central London and Canary Wharf. Journey times vary between 15 and 25 minutes, with standard London public transport fares applying. The station is fully accessible.
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Bus
Bus routes 177 and 188 serve stops near Greenwich Pier, connecting to various parts of London. Buses run approximately every 10-15 minutes during the day. Standard London bus fares apply, and buses are wheelchair accessible.
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Walking
Greenwich Pier is within walking distance of many local attractions including Greenwich Market, the National Maritime Museum, and the Royal Observatory. The terrain includes paved paths and some gentle slopes, suitable for most visitors including those with mobility aids.
Greenwich Pier 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 Greenwich Pier
A Historic Thames Gateway
Greenwich Pier, established around 1836, stands as a historic gateway on the River Thames, originally built to serve paddle steamers ferrying passengers along the river. Today, it continues this legacy, operated by Transport for London and serving as a bustling ferry terminal that links Greenwich with central London via regular riverboat services. Its location on King William Walk places it at the heart of Greenwich’s maritime heritage, making it an essential starting point for exploring this culturally rich area.Proximity to Iconic Attractions
The pier is perfectly situated near the Cutty Sark, the world’s only surviving tea clipper, now a museum showcasing 19th-century maritime history. Just a short stroll away lies Greenwich Market, known for its eclectic mix of street food, antiques, and crafts. Visitors can also easily access the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory with the Prime Meridian Line, and the Old Royal Naval College, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning baroque architecture and riverside setting.Scenic River Cruises and Connectivity
Greenwich Pier is a key embarkation point for sightseeing cruises along the Thames, including services by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. These cruises offer panoramic views of London’s skyline and landmarks such as Tower Bridge, The Shard, and the O2 Arena. The pier is wheelchair accessible, with step-free access from ticket offices to boats, enhancing inclusivity for all visitors. Tickets can be purchased onsite or via contactless payment methods, streamlining the travel experience.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The pier area buzzes with a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy watching boats glide along the Thames, soaking in views of the river and the surrounding architecture. Nearby seating and sheltered areas provide comfort while waiting for boats. The pier’s vibrant setting is enriched by the sounds of the river, calls of seagulls, and the occasional splash of water, creating a sensory connection to London’s maritime past.Accessibility and Transport Options
Greenwich Pier benefits from excellent transport links, including nearby Cutty Sark DLR station and several bus stops serving routes 177 and 188. Its accessibility features make it suitable for wheelchair users and families with strollers. The pier’s location within London’s travel zones ensures convenient and affordable access by public transport, complementing the riverboat services that provide a scenic alternative to traditional transit.Preserving Maritime Heritage
As part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, Greenwich Pier plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the area’s rich nautical history. It connects visitors not only physically but also culturally to the stories of exploration, navigation, and trade that have shaped London and the world. The pier acts as a living link between past and present, inviting travelers to embark on journeys of discovery along the Thames.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bellot Memorial Greenwich
0.1 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
0.3 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Trafalgar Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
0.4 km
Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Anchor Iron Wharf
0.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
City Hall
3.1 km
Discover London’s eco-friendly City Hall, a striking architectural landmark and vibrant hub of governance and public engagement on the Royal Docks waterfront.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
3.4 km
Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.
Execution Dock
3.8 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
Shadwell Basin
3.9 km
Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.0 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.0 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
Execution Dock House
4.1 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Ornamental Canal
4.4 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
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.
International House
4.8 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cutty Sark Gardens
0.1 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
0.1 km
Step beneath the Thames through a century-old pedestrian tunnel linking historic Greenwich with the modern Isle of Dogs.
Cutty Sark
0.1 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 Tourist Information Desk
0.2 km
Explore London's maritime heritage at the Greenwich Tourist Information Desk, your gateway to local attractions and experiences.
Trinity Laban
0.2 km
The UK's premier conservatoire for music and contemporary dance, set within the historic Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
Painted Hall
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Painted Hall, a Baroque masterpiece with vivid ceilings and walls celebrating Britain’s naval and royal heritage.
Naval College Gardens
0.2 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.
Greenwich Market
0.3 km
Historic Greenwich Market blends antiques, artisan crafts, and global street food in a vibrant, covered London landmark open daily.
5b Greenwich Market
0.3 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
0.4 km
Historic Greenwich Church Street blends centuries of heritage with vibrant shops, eateries, and iconic landmarks by the Thames.
St Alfege Church
0.4 km
Discover over a millennium of history, architecture, and music at St Alfege Church, the heart of Greenwich’s spiritual heritage.
The Greenwich Vintage Market
0.4 km
Discover rare antiques, vintage treasures, and eclectic crafts in the heart of historic Greenwich’s vibrant market scene.
National Maritime Museum
0.4 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
0.4 km
A tranquil garden oasis within London’s premier maritime museum complex, blending history, nature, and family-friendly charm.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
0.5 km
An intimate, candlelit basement jazz club in Greenwich where close-up live music and community atmosphere meet a well-stocked bar.
Essential places to dine
Goddards at Greenwich
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
0.4 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
Pho Street
0.4 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
0.4 km
A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.
Midpoint Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
0.8 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
The Prince of Greenwich Pub
0.9 km
A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.
The Hill
0.9 km
A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.
Restaurant Story
5.2 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
5.6 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
5.8 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
5.8 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
14 Hills
5.9 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
Nomadic community
6.0 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
0.2 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
0.3 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.
Rare Books & Curios
0.3 km
A compact Greenwich Market stall overflowing with rare and vintage books, maps and printed curios that reward slow, tactile browsing.
Made in Greenwich
0.3 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.
Dragonfly Lifestyle
0.3 km
A small Greenwich boutique blending mindful womenswear, handcrafted jewellery and wellbeing finds in a calm, curated shop environment.
Arc Angel Boutique London
0.3 km
Elegant womenswear samples, striking accessories, and quirky gifts await in Greenwich Market's stylish haven, where fashion meets historic charm.
Joli Vintage Living
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads and retro treasures at Joli Vintage Living, Greenwich's gem for sustainable, era-spanning style on charming Nelson Road.
The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
0.3 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
0.7 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
1.2 km
Unearth retro home treasures in Greenwich's cozy furniture nook—sustainable style with vintage soul.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
5.2 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
5.2 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Tower of London Shop
5.5 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
5.6 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.
Hay's Galleria
5.7 km
Historic riverside warehouse transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination beneath a stunning glass roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Gipsy Moth
0.2 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
0.4 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
0.5 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
0.6 km
A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.
The Lost Hour
0.6 km
Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.
Greenwich Town Social Club
1.2 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Td 338 Bar
1.6 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
All Bar One Greenwich
2.2 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
2.2 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
The Midnight Apothecary
3.6 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Drink At Bob's
3.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.
Nine Lives
5.5 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
5.6 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
5.7 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
The Old School Yard
5.7 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
