Tilbury to Gravesend Ferry
A historic cross-Thames ferry connecting Tilbury and Gravesend, now suspended but vital for communities and tourism.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Tilbury to Gravesend Ferry
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cross-Thames ferry connecting Tilbury and Gravesend, now suspended but vital for communities and tourism.
"A calm 6 minute journey with good friendly staff, sadly one of the last trips."
Check Service Status
The ferry service has ceased. Always verify current operational status before traveling.
Plan for Detours
Without the ferry, expect longer travel times via bus or train.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
River Thames Crossing
Tilbury to Gravesend
A historic and scenic 6-10 minute journey across the Thames, offering views of river traffic and landmarks.
Tilbury Fort Views
Near Tilbury Ferry Terminal
A short walk from the Tilbury terminal leads to the impressive Tilbury Fort, a key historical site.
Gravesend Pier & Market
Gravesend
Explore Gravesend's historic cobbled streets, market, and waterfront after disembarking.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Service Status
Alternative Travel
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Service Status
The ferry service has ceased. Always verify current operational status before traveling.
Plan for Detours
Without the ferry, expect longer travel times via bus or train.
Historic Route
This ferry has a history dating back centuries, offering a unique perspective on the Thames.
River Views
Enjoy views of the busy Thames and potentially large ships during the crossing.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Service Status
The ferry service has ceased. Always verify current operational status before traveling.
Plan for Detours
Without the ferry, expect longer travel times via bus or train.
Historic Route
This ferry has a history dating back centuries, offering a unique perspective on the Thames.
River Views
Enjoy views of the busy Thames and potentially large ships during the crossing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Tilbury to Gravesend ferry provided a quick, affordable, and pleasant 6-10 minute journey across the Thames, praised for its helpful staff and scenic river views. Unfortunately, the service ceased operations at the end of March 2024 due to funding issues, leaving a significant gap in local transport.
"I enjoyed my trip over the Thames and the staff were very helpful. Sadly this was one of the last trips of the service, which was finished at the end of March 2024.
There is currently no other way to get from Tilbury to Gravesend without over an hours journey into London or by using the hourly bus over the Elizabeth Bridge"
Andy Wilkin
"Took the ferry from Tilbury to Gravesend pier, paid £4 for a return ticket, good friendly staff. A calm 6 minute journey."
Ọlatunde O
"Get a return off peak return from Tilbury to Gravesend for only £4. Ferry's run every half an hour all day . It a lovely journey and it's only 10 mins . Parking here is free but gets full so plan ahead. Alternative free parking is available at World's End Pub just 5 mins walk away. Gravesend is a historic place full of old cobbled streets and an indoor market. There are free toilets and a small shopping center. Lots of lovely cafés . Definitely worth a day out for exploring."
Nick Johnson
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
As of March 31, 2024, the Tilbury to Gravesend ferry service has been suspended due to funding issues. The primary alternative is to take a bus over the Elizabeth Bridge, which can take around an hour, or to travel via London by train, which significantly extends journey times. 
To get from Heathrow Airport to Grays, Essex, take a train into London and then a tube to Fenchurch Street. From Fenchurch Street, catch the c2c train line towards Southend, ensuring your train stops at Grays as the line splits.
Parking was available near the Tilbury Ferry terminal and could fill up quickly. Alternative free parking was often found at The World's End Pub, a short walk away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A return ticket for the ferry from Tilbury to Gravesend was approximately £4, offering good value for the short journey.
The ferry typically ran every half hour throughout the day, making it a convenient option for quick crossings.
No, the Tilbury to Gravesend ferry service ceased operations on March 31, 2024, due to a lack of funding.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Near the Tilbury Ferry terminal, you can visit Tilbury Fort, a significant historical site. The pedestrian walkway towards the terrafermer features interesting artwork.
Gravesend offers historic cobbled streets, an indoor market, cafes, and a shopping center. The pier area is also a pleasant place to explore.
The ferry crossing itself was a quick journey, typically lasting about 6 to 10 minutes.
📸 📸 Photography
The route offers opportunities to photograph river traffic, the Thames estuary, and the historic landmarks on both shores, including Tilbury Fort.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The End of an Era: Tilbury to Gravesend Ferry
This vital cross-Thames link was primarily funded by Kent County Council after Thurrock Council withdrew its support in 2023. Jetstream Tours, the operator, concluded their contract with no immediate plans for continuation due to unsustainable funding. +1 The closure has been met with significant local outcry, with community members and local representatives highlighting its importance as a lifeline for commuters, a support for local businesses, and a valuable tourist attraction. +2Efforts are actively being made to bring the ferry service back. Local politicians have been engaging with government officials to secure the necessary funding, emphasizing the ferry's role in connecting communities and reducing congestion.
Petitions have been launched to show public support for its reinstatement. The loss of this service means residents must now rely on longer bus routes or train journeys via London, impacting daily commutes and accessibility. Before planning any travel between Tilbury and Gravesend, it is crucial to check for any updates regarding the potential return of the ferry service. The community is actively working towards its revival, and future announcements will be key for travelers.
Exploring Gravesend and Tilbury
Across the Thames, Tilbury is home to the impressive Tilbury Fort, a star-shaped artillery fort that played a significant role in England's coastal defenses. A short walk from the former ferry terminal leads to this historic site.
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