Heritage and history
The Thames Barrier, London’s most underrated tourist attraction - voted by The Times
When it comes to London tourist attractions you have probably been there, done that and got the overpriced T-shirt. But it’s time to move over Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Tower of London, there’s a new top attraction in town. Located on the northern bank of Silvertown, the Thames Barrier has been voted London’s most underrated tourist attraction by The Times. How cool is that?!
Read the full story on The Times website and then plan your visit to the Royal Docks to see it for yourself and discover how great the area is. For stunning views of the Thames Barrier, head to Thames Barrier Park - another award-winning attraction in its own right having proudly held a Green Flag for seven years running!
About The Thames Barrier
The Thames Barrier is one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world. Its ten, movable steel gates protect 125 square kilometres of central London from tidal-surge flooding from the sea.
The Environment Agency runs and maintains the Thames Barrier, receiving information on potential tidal surges from weather satellites, oil rigs, weather ships and coastal stations. This hydrological and meteorological data is fed into the control room every minute. Information from a range of mathematical computer models then forecast expected sea and river levels. This is supplemented by data from the Met Office and real-time information provided by the UK National Tidegauge Network. The team can forecast dangerous conditions up to 36 hours in advance.
Fun facts
- The site is regularly used as a location for film and television productions including Mission Impossible 2, Spooks and Top Gear
- The barrier protects around 1.4 million people and 420,000 properties across 125 square kilometres of central London from flooding
- The barrier spans 520 metres across the River Thames near Thames Barrier Park
- It has 10 steel gates that can be raised into position across the River Thames from the northern bank in Silvertown to the southern bank in New Charlton
- Each main gate weighs 3,300 tonnes
- A team of 80 monitors the barrier at all times
- Since it became operational in 1982, the barrier has been closed 221 times for flood defence
- The Barrier is operated once a month for maintenance and testing. You can watch the impressive test for free as the magnificent gates are raised from the depths, reaching as high as a five-storey building and as wide as the opening of Tower Bridge. Find out when at www.gov.uk/guidance/the-thames-barrier
Pretty impressive! Now, where can we buy a Thames Barrier T-shirt…
While you're here
While you're in the Royal Docks here are eleven other great things to see, do and experience:
Visit Thames Barrier Park
Thames Barrier Park offers some of the best views of the Thames Barrier in the Royal Docks. The park is home to blooming gardens, river views, wildlife, a basketball court, a children's play area and idyllic picnic spots. The Green Dock is an eye-catching feature. The 130-foot-long sunken garden runs diagonally through the park. Its beautifully crafted hedges create an enchanting maze to explore.
Stop for a cuppa at With Milk, located in the heart of the park. It’s one of many great cafes in the Royal Docks. Run by the sister duo, Hana and Lela Mamma, the newly refurbished cafe features floor-to-ceiling windows offering a 180-degree view of the beautiful park. The decking with outdoor seating is also perfect for gazing at the Thames Barrier in the distance. There are plans for a stone-baked pizza oven too. Follow With Milk on Instagram to be the first to know when.
Thames Barrier Park, North Woolwich Road, London E16 2HP
Enjoy all your pub favourites at The Windjammer
Located in Royal Wharf, The Windjammer is a welcoming, family-friendly riverside gastro pub. The popular menu has all the pub classics and more. Regular events include curry night, steak night, Wings Wednesday, quiz night and live music.
Visit on a Sunday to enjoy a seriously good Sunday roast. The options include roast rump of lamb, roasted pork belly, corn-fed chicken, sirloin of beef, veggie and vegan. All roasts are served with a tasty selection of roast potatoes, maple carrots, squash mash, cauliflower cheese, seasonal greens, Yorkshire pudding and gravy.
For more great local places to enjoy a roast read out guide to the best Sunday lunches in the Royal Docks.
The Windjammer, 25 Admiralty Avenue, Silvertown, London, E16 2PN
Get creative at Bonbon Pottery Cafe
For a fun and creative activity, book a session at BonBon Pottery. Located in Royal Wharf, this pottery studio and café offers a variety of workshops for all ages and abilities. Try a pottery taster class to learn the basics of hand building clay, attempt wheel throwing, or enjoy a ceramic painting session. It’s a great place to get creative, enjoy good coffee and a sweet treat – plus dogs are welcome too!
3 Royal Crest Ave, London, E16 2PG
www.bonbonpottery.co.uk
Enjoy breathtaking aerial views on the IFS Cloud Cable Car
Soar 90 metres in the sky with a trip on the IFS Cloud Cable Car. This fun and exciting journey takes you across the River Thames, between the Royal Docks and Greenwich Peninsula. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy spectacular aerial views of London including the Thames Barrier, St Paul's Cathedral, The Gherkin, Maritime Greenwich, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and more.
The IFS Cloud Cable Car is well connected to the rest of TfL's transport network and is wheelchair accessible too. You can also take your bike on board and continue your cycle journey.
IFS Cloud Royal Docks Terminal, 27 Western Gateway, London, E16 1FA
Make a splash with open water swimming
Discover the joys of open water swimming in Royal Victoria Dock. It’s one of the many great ways to get fit in the Royal Docks. Whether you’re a beginner, fancy a relaxing dip or training for a triathlon, it’s great for your mind, body and soul. Before taking the plunge, you’ll need to sign up for a Cold Water Induction course with Love Open Water. Once completed, you can book your swim session on their website. For available dates, times and pricing of swimming sessions visit the Love Open Water website.
Royal Victoria Dock pontoon, Kamal Chunchie Way, London, E16 1ZE (look out for the grass-covered gated pontoon opposite City Hall)
www.loveopenwater.co.uk/swimming-london-royal-docks
Ride the waves with WakeUp Docklands
Try wakeboarding at WakeUp Docklands, a watersports centre in Royal Victoria Dock. The owner, Jon Byrne and his friendly team will help all abilities master paddle and wakeboarding. If you already know your stuff you can show off your skills on the jumps and obstacles. WakeUp Docklands is currently closed for winter, but it will reopen its doors very soon for Spring. Follow WakeUp Docklands on Instagram to be the first to know when they reopen. It’s worth the wait!
WakeUp Docklands, 1 Dock Road, London, E16 1AG
Enjoy afternoon tea on Sunborn London
Book afternoon tea on board Sunborn London, the UK’s only luxury superyacht hotel. The décor is stunning. Permanently moored at Royal Victoria Dock, Sunborn London offers a luxurious dining experience with freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and seasonal jam, fine teas, an assortment of classic sandwiches and delicate pastries all crafted by the talented pastry team.
The sweet treats include earl grey tea panna cotta with lemon jelly, chocolate delice and passionfruit cheesecake. The top deck is also an idyllic place to relax and enjoy the sunset over London's iconic landmarks.
Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1AA
www.sunbornlondon.com/restaurants/afternoon-tea
Experience Immerse LDN
Visit Immerse LDN to enjoy world-class immersive experiences in Royal Victoria Dock. Fans of the hit US sitcom Friends will love The FRIENDS™ Experience featuring recreated sets, the iconic fountain and the famous couch in Central Perk.
The Formula 1® Exhibition is another great day out. This immersive experience includes iconic pieces such as Sir Lewis Hamilton’s 2018 Championship-winning Mercedes AMG F1 W09 and Ayrton Senna’s legendary 1988 McLaren MP4/4.
Fans of the king of rock and roll will love Elvis Evolution, celebrating the life and work of Elvis Presley. Combining cutting-edge digital technology, live actors and musicians, mind-blowing multimedia and music, Elvis Evolution lets you relive the King's iconic moments.
Also, opening in March 2025, Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition, brings Ancient Egypt to life like never before.
After, enjoy the delicious street food inspired menu at Waterfront Street Kitchen and Bar and browse the Royal Victoria Dock weekend market.
ExCeL Waterfront, Excel London, London, E16 1XL
www.immerseldn.com
Discover The Line
The Line is East London’s public art trail that connects Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and The O2, following the waterways and the line of the Greenwich Meridian. Its outdoor exhibition programme offers a trail through a dynamic urban landscape where everyone can explore art, nature and heritage for free.
The evolving programme of art installations includes various works at Royal Victoria Dock. ‘Types of Happiness’ by renowned artist, Yinka Ilori features 10ft chairs with bold, colourful, print like patterns. You can also spot distinctive works by Madge Gill, Laura Ford and Larry Achiampong.
Royal Wharf Market
A visit to the Royal Wharf market is a lovely weekend activity. On the second Sunday of every month, 11-4pm, Corinthian Square in Royal Wharf is lined with eclectic mix of stalls of unique finds from local makers including hand crafted jewellery, artisan gin, homemade preserves, local honey and fine cheese.
On the fourth Friday of every month, 3pm - 9pm, foodies will love the street food market with authentic cuisines from around the world. Follow Royal Wharf Market on Instagram to find out more about the delicious food on offer.
Royal Wharf Market, Corinthian Square, Royal Wharf, E16 2PG
www.instagram.com/royalwharfmarket/?hl=en
Set sail on the Thames with Uber boat
After enjoying the delights of the Royal Docks, take a leisurely trip along the River Thames aboard the Uber Boat from Royal Wharf Pier. For an exciting day out book a Hop-on Hop-off ticket and plan visits to iconic London landmarks using the interactive River Guide. The pier has step-free access suitable for buggies, wheelchair and mobility scooter users. Plus, you can bring your bike on board for free.
Royal Wharf Pier, Bonnet Street, Royal Docks, London, E16 2SZ
www.thamesclippers.com/plan-your-journey/find-your-pier/royal-wharf-pier
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