Woolwich Ferry London
A historic, free ferry service connecting Woolwich and North Woolwich across the River Thames, offering scenic views and a unique transport experience...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shorter waits, smoother journey
Woolwich Ferry London
Best Time
Shorter waits, smoother journey
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, free ferry service connecting Woolwich and North Woolwich across the River Thames, offering scenic views and a unique transport experience.
"Literally the best thing ive ever seen TFL do. Hated them and khan for a long time now but this for free in London was a shock tbh."
🎯 Embrace the Free Experience
It's a free service! Enjoy the ride and the views without any cost.
⏰ Beat the Afternoon Rush
Mornings offer shorter waits (10-20 mins). Afternoons can be 40-60 mins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Thames Crossing
River Thames, connecting Woolwich and North Woolwich
Experience a free, historic ferry ride across the iconic River Thames, offering unique city views.
River Thames Views
Onboard the ferry
Enjoy scenic vistas of the London skyline and the bustling river traffic during your short journey.
Free Public Transport
Woolwich and North Woolwich terminals
A rare free public transport option in London, carrying pedestrians, cyclists, cars, and lorries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Ride
Timing is Key for a Smooth Crossing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Free Experience
It's a free service! Enjoy the ride and the views without any cost. +1
⏰ Beat the Afternoon Rush
Mornings offer shorter waits (10-20 mins). Afternoons can be 40-60 mins.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian Friendly
There's a separate area for pedestrians, making it easy to hop on and off.
🚲 Cycle Across
Cyclists are welcome, making it a great option for exploring on two wheels.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Free Experience
It's a free service! Enjoy the ride and the views without any cost. +1
⏰ Beat the Afternoon Rush
Mornings offer shorter waits (10-20 mins). Afternoons can be 40-60 mins.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian Friendly
There's a separate area for pedestrians, making it easy to hop on and off.
🚲 Cycle Across
Cyclists are welcome, making it a great option for exploring on two wheels.
📸 Capture the Views
The ferry offers great photo opportunities of the Thames and city skyline.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Woolwich Ferry as a surprisingly delightful and free way to cross the Thames, offering scenic views and a touch of history. While appreciated for its cost-effectiveness and convenience for vehicles and cyclists, some find the afternoon wait times can be quite long.
"Free ferry service to cross the river. Its quicker in the morning when waiting time is 10 to 20 minutes. In the afternoon it takes to get into the ferry around 40 minutes to 60 minutes.
If you are not in rush, you can use it by car, bike or on foot. Usually in summer, the scenic beauty will mesmerise you."
MD AMINUL ISLAM (Rana)
"I live in the UK and have never heard of this service. It's free and very quick. It also added excitement to our journey."
Paula Thorpe
"Literally the best thing ive ever seen TFL do. Hated them and khan for a long time now but this for free in London was a shock tbh. Two ferries fully crewed managed very well i need to say. From traffic to to the boat 🚢. Brilliant 👊"
Anthony Wrenn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Woolwich Ferry connects Woolwich on the south bank of the Thames with North Woolwich on the north bank. You can reach the Woolwich terminal via public transport in Woolwich, and the North Woolwich terminal via public transport in North Woolwich. It's a key part of the TfL network. +1
Yes, the Woolwich Ferry is operated by Transport for London (TfL) and is a free service.
Absolutely! The Woolwich Ferry accommodates cars, vans, lorries, and cyclists, in addition to pedestrians.
You can take the DLR to Woolwich Arsenal or Woolwich Dockyard for the south side, or to King George V for the north side. The ferry itself offers an alternative to busy roads or the Tube.
For crossing the Thames in this area, it can be a great alternative to navigating congested roads or using tunnels, especially if you're not in a rush.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Woolwich Ferry is completely free to use for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. It's a rare free service in London! +1
The ferry typically operates from Monday to Friday, 6 am to 8 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 8 pm. It's advisable to check the official TfL website for the most up-to-date times, as these can vary.
The ferry runs every 15-20 minutes, making it a frequent and convenient option for crossing the river.
No booking is required. As it's a free public service, you can simply turn up and board.
The ferry is generally accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, with dedicated areas for passengers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The crossing is short, lasting about five minutes. You can stand on deck to enjoy views of the Thames and the surrounding areas.
You'll get views of the Thames, the docks, and parts of East London. It's a different perspective than seeing London from the ground.
Crowds can vary. Mornings are generally less busy, while afternoons and weekends can see more people.
The Woolwich Ferry has been operating for over 130 years, serving as a vital transport link across the Thames.
Yes, it's a great spot for photography, offering unique angles of the river and city. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food or drink facilities on the ferry itself. It's a short crossing, so it's best to eat before or after your journey.
Both Woolwich and North Woolwich have local cafes and restaurants. You can find various options depending on your preference.
📸 📸 Photography
The open deck offers unobstructed views. Try capturing the ferry itself, the river traffic, and the London skyline as you cross. +1
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light. However, any time provides a unique perspective of this working river.
The Royal Iris is a former Mersey Ferry that has been moored in Woolwich and is being repurposed. While you might see it from the ferry, it's not currently in active service as part of the Woolwich Ferry route.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚲 Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This historic crossing offers a unique perspective on London's maritime past and present. Unlike the more modern Thames Clipper services, the Woolwich Ferry retains a more utilitarian charm, serving a crucial role for local commuters and freight. Its continued operation as a free service is a testament to its importance and a welcome anomaly in a city where many services come with a price tag.
Navigating the Ferry Experience
While the ferry is free, potential visitors should be aware of waiting times. Social media and traveler reviews suggest that mornings are generally less crowded, with waits of 10-20 minutes. However, afternoons can see queues extend to 40-60 minutes, especially during peak times. Planning your trip around these times can significantly enhance your experience and minimize delays.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit