TfL’s ‘Chatty Cabins’ encourage people to spark up conversations on the IFS Cable Car

Heritage and history

TfL’s ‘Chatty Cabins’ encourage people to spark up conversations on the IFS Cable Car

Transport for London (TfL) has introduced ‘Chatty Cabins’ on the IFS Cloud Cable Car as part of it 25th anniversary celebrations.

The initiative aims to encourage Londoners and visitors alike to connect while soaring above the Thames between the Royal Docks and Greenwich Peninsula. Select cabins have been specially wrapped as ‘Chatty Cabins’ to inspire conversations about what people love most about London.

Each 20-minute round-trip will encourage people to chat through a series of engaging questions about their favourite London moments, from cherished experiences in the city to their favourite mode of travel. The initiative aims to help support people's mental health and tackle loneliness, building on the Mayor of London’s strategy for Social Inclusion and the Reconceptualising Loneliness in London report published in 2022. This report estimates 700,000 Londoners feel lonely 'always' or 'most of the time', disproportionately affecting young, low-income, LGBTQ+, single parents, deaf or disabled, or ethnic minority Londoners.

Dr Debbie Weekes-Bernard, Deputy Mayor for Communities and Social Justice, said: "Initiatives like 'Chatty Cabins' provide a lovely opportunity to share experiences, exchange ideas, and celebrate what makes our city so special. Loneliness can affect anyone, but small moments like this remind us of the power of human connection. I'd like to encourage Londoners and visitors to take a ride on the IFS Cloud Cable Car, enjoy the stunning views, and help to foster a sense of community as we continue to build a better London for everyone."

Trish Ashton, Director of Rail and Sponsored Services, said: "TfL is committed to fostering inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all Londoners and these 'Chatty Cabins' on the Cable Car offer a chance to celebrate what makes London special and bring people together as we mark our 25th anniversary year. London's only Cable Car offers visitors a chance to enjoy spectacular views of the Thames as they fly across it, and we hope that 'Chatty Cabins' encourages those who use them to spark new conversations and bring Londoners and visitors together."

Dates & tickets

The 'Chatty Cabin' initiative runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays only, from Tuesday 11 February until Thursday 13 March. Operating from 10:00 to 12:00, tickets to the 'Chatty Cabins' are available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/74674879523

Each Chatty Cabin ticket can be used by up to three people and includes a free round trip on the IFS Cloud Cable Car and a hot drink for participants.

TfL is marking 25 years of supporting London's growth and development with a series of events and activities this year including asking Londoners to share their favourite moment on London's transport network. People are invited to share their photos and special memories relating to TfL from the last 25 years, whether they are a lifelong Londoner, have adopted the city as their home or are a visitor.

The transport network has played a role in many people's big moments, from meeting their partner, to visiting the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, to their first time using Santander Cycles or a marriage proposal on the Cable Car. Their stories will be told throughout the year on TfL's social media channels, TfL's blog and in stations.

To submit a memory as part of the 25th anniversary celebrations, contact TfL25Memories@tfl.gov.uk.