thames river trips from gravesend

“Pocahontas” Thames River Cruise with Lunch

The MV Princess Pocahontas is named after the famous Indian Princess buried at Gravesend, it is there we join the boat for a cruise up the River Thames.

We take in the changing face of the river from Gravesend to Canary Wharf, whilst passing famous landmarks of London along the river with full commentary from your on-board guide.

A buffet Ploughman's lunch is also included during your journey on board.

2018 Pick-up Routes: As per the brochure we will now be running a Northbound or Southbound route on all trips. When booking please select your preferred pick-up point. Your pick-up time and routes will then be confirmed at least 1 week before date of travel.

We've got you

Local pick up points throughout east kent.

Check out the following pick up locations available, times will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Birchington

Broadstairs, other ways you can book.

You can also book this day trip/holiday at any one of the following locations:

Ramsgate, Harbour Parade Margate, Droit House, Pier Head Deal, Town Hall Dover, Market Square

Stanhope Road, Deal, Kent CT14 6AB

2 Cattle Market, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9AG

Sneller House, 19-21 Cattle Market, Sandwich

1 The Street, Sholden, Kent, CT14 0AL

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Sunday 5th of January 2025*****SEATS AVAILABLE*****

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Glide from Gravesend and Tilbury into central London this summer

London River Bus offers special day trips for Kent and Essex residents

Gravesend and Tilbury residents can plan a summer day out with a difference this August as London’s leading River Bus service, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, is offering the opportunity to travel to the capital by boat on board two special Saturday services.

In celebration of Tilbury’s recent success in securing £22.8m in funding from the government’s Town Fund, the sailings also give a glimpse of residents’ future travel options as the fund will help enhance the town centre, including the addition of a new River Bus pier.

Designed to provide a convenient transport link for a fun day out in London, the services will depart on 7 and 14* August. Departing from Gravesend Town Pier* at 9.45am and Tilbury Pier at 10.00am, the services will call at North Greenwich Pier (10.40am) before terminating at London Bridge City Pier (11.00am).

Located beside The O2 and Emirates Air Line, North Greenwich Pier is the gateway to Greenwich Peninsula, London's exciting new creative quarter. The O2 is the ultimate all-in-one destination to visit for a day out this summer, with multiple attractions including a climbing experience with Up At The O2, shopping at over 60 fashion and lifestyle brands at Icon Outlet and more than 30 bars and restaurants. Visitors to The O2 can try out trampolining at Oxygen Freejuping, catch the latest blockbusters at Cineworld, or test out their football skills at the new interactive football and dining experience, TOCA Social (opening this summer). At the heart of the capital, London Bridge City Pier is in one of the city’s most exciting neighbourhoods. World-famous attractions such as Tower Bridge, Borough Market and The View from The Shard, nestle beside theatres, galleries, and many top notch places to eat and drink, giving visitors a fantastic day out within walking distance of their boat home.

Cyclone Clipper in Tilbury

With an All Day ticket, passengers can also make unlimited use of the full Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ services for the day, disembarking at either London pier to join the regular service which serves several piers throughout the capital. Sail to London Eye (Waterloo) Pier for a visit to Sea Life London Aquarium’s interactive exhibit on the Great Oceanic Conveyor. Or head to Battersea Power Station Pier for a host of fun activities – rent a boat to sail the lake in Battersea Park or stay put and enjoy the power station’s Summer Showtime on the Coaling Jetty. With a range of riverside festivals taking place this summer, alight at Canary Wharf Pier for the Summer Lights exhibition, or London Bridge City Pier for Summer By The River.

In the evenings, the boat will leave London Bridge City Pier at 5.30pm and call at North Greenwich Pier at 5:50pm, Tilbury Pier at 6.30pm before arriving at Gravesend Town Pier* at 6.45pm. The licensed onboard café bar will again be serving refreshments for the cruise home.

Tickets must be pre-booked online at thamesclippers.com/gravesend-tilbury-london. Prices start from £11 per person for a single adult journey, or £19.50 for an adult return journey. Passengers can upgrade to an All Day ticket to join Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ regular services for £24.95 per adult or £49.50 for a family ticket (valid for two adults and three children, aged 5-15 years).  Children 4 years and under can travel free of charge as standard but a seat must still be booked for them online.

Go unlimited with a River Roamer

Sean Collins, CEO and co-founder, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers comments: “We remain committed to growing the River Bus network in London and further east. We want as many residents as possible to realise the benefits of travelling by river in and out of London, in terms of speed, comfort and frequency. We are optimistic about the volume of passengers opting to use this special leisure service, and we hope soon to be able to offer this additional transport link permanently to Gravesend and Tilbury.”

Leader of Thurrock Council, Cllr Rob Gledhill, said: “I welcome the River Bus service this summer, it provides excellent access to the city and a great day for residents of all ages to enjoy. River transport is a fantastic option for Thurrock, reconnecting our towns to the river and thanks to the government’s £22.8million Town Fund investment, this could be the future for travel in our borough.”

With a guaranteed seat for each passenger, an onboard café bar serving drinks and snacks and a back deck to enjoy the cool breeze – Uber Boat by Thames Clippers’ service is a convenient and comfortable way to travel through the city. Servicing many of London’s most popular attractions, the river offers one of the best vantage points to take in the city’s iconic sights including The O2, Tower of London, St Paul’s and the London Eye.

*14 August service will not call at Gravesend Town Pier. Residents south of the river can make use of the existing cross-river ferry from Gravesend (at extra cost) to join the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service departing from Tilbury for central London.

Typhoon Clipper in central London

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Thames River Cruise from Gravesend to... - MV Princess Pocahontas

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4 Adults drove to gravesend parking was very good. Arrived in ample time. Journey was fantastic... read more

This was a splendid trip.Despite a large number of passengers there was plenty of room and the cafe... read more

Thames River Cruise from Gravesend to Chelsea

I took a party of 34 on this trip, a 'Thames Cruise' which runs from Gravesend to Chelsea and back with a running commentary on the history of the Thames in London and all the places of interest. The running commentary was comprehensive and was delivered with humour. There is a licensed bar on board (you cannot take your own alcohol, please) and there is tea, coffee, sandwiches, etc, all available at such reasonable prices. You can order substantial meals at the time of booking for groups of 20 or more. The staff were so friendly and obliging, which only added to the enjoyment of the day. There were those among us who had grown up in North Kent and London but who had never thought of seeing it from the river. A truly enjoyable day!

We went on a trip to London from gravesend to see the tall ships. The boat is shabby and not particularly clean. The commentary was good but we had difficulty hearing it most of the time. Most staff were helpful, however a member of staff was very rude without cause. One of the other staff tried to stop her but there needs to be some customer care training. Feel that it was a shame!

went on a day trip up the thames & return on this motor vessel We had lunch on board We left gravesend at 10.30 & did not arrive back until 17.30 It was an excellent day out ..The captain gave an excellent comentary on the way up to London pointing out all the ..places of interest We traveled up as far as the Houses of parlliment before turning round ..to come back We all look foreward to another trip next year

I treated my Dad to this boat trip and we both really enjoyed it, the staff are nice and friendly and good service, we stayed onboard and cruised right up to Putney, a glorious sunny day too what more could we have asked for. We had sandwiches on board for lunch, £3.50 with crisps & salad so good value, the drinks and cakes are all very reasonable too which makes a nice change instead of getting ripped off by other companies so we didn't mind purchasing food & beverages. The staff really do make you feel welcome so well done you friendly lot and for the commentary as we were passing various buildings etc, fab day had by both of us.

This is an absolutely brilliant day out and one I can't wait to do again! We took my parents on it and my 80 year old dad said it was the best day out he could ever remember having!! The boat is lovely; really clean and comfortable with great outside space and a lovely little bar. The staff were dressed immaculately and were really friendly, efficient and accommodating in every way. The commentary was second to none and was very interesting and informative, but also some great anecdotes thrown in which had everyone in stitches!! We loved everything about the day and are going to be looking in to maybe using the Princess Pocahontas for private charter for party in the near future :) Thank you all guys - it was an amazing day!

Today we went on the Princess Pocahontas, this is the third time I have been on the Princess and it is a great trip, a running commentary all the way to Westminster and it is not a recording it is a actual person speaking and very informative. The food is reasonable and very good. So if you want a good day out I would recommend it. It leaves at 10.30 and you are back in Gravesend about 4.30 to 5.00. So give it a try I do not think you will be disappointed.

Thames Clippers announces new date for Gravesend to London Uber Boat

The route takes around 40 minutes to the Greenwich Peninsula and an additional 20 minutes before you reach London Bridge

• 06:51, 9 MAR 2022
• Updated 15:45, 9 MAR 2022

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New dates have been announced for the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers route from Gravesend to London.

After running sell-out trips throughout February, the popular route will set sail again on March 19 having already completed the journey on Saturday (March 5).

The route takes around 40 minutes to the Greenwich Peninsula and an additional 20 minutes before you reach London Bridge.

READ MORE: The ways Kent is coming together to help Ukraine as Russian invasion continues

It's certainly a unique way to travel into the city, as you sail past many iconic sights including the Thames Barrier, O2 Arena, Canary Wharf and you even pass under Tower Bridge.

Passengers should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to their scheduled departure time, with the boat set to leave Gravesend at 9.45am before arriving at London Bridge City at 11am.

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The boat will then depart London Bridge City at 4pm, meaning passengers have plenty of time to spend in the city.

Passengers can make unlimited use of the full Uber Boat by Thames Clippers' services for a day by purchasing an All Day ticket.

Services also include a licensed onboard café bar which will serve refreshments for both journeys.

A single adult journey is priced at £11.55 per person, while adult return journeys can be bought from £20.50.

An All Day ticket costs £26.20 per adult, and passengers have the option to upgrade their single-trip tickets.

Children four years and under can travel free of charge as standard but a seat must still be booked for them online.

You can find more information about bookings by clicking here .

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Thames River Sightseeing Timetable

Temporary timetable on wednesday, 20th of march 2024, daily from 3rd january to 29th february 2024.

* These last departures are only weekends and from Westminster Pier to Tower Bridge Quay returning to Westminster (No Greenwich service)

**(One-Way) – These departures are one-way only without return service

Daily from 1st of March to 22ND of March 2024

* These last departures are only from Westminster Pier to Tower Bridge Quay returning to Westminster (No Greenwich service)

Daily from 23RD of March to 31st of May 2024

Currently we have no 10:00 service. First departure from Westminster Pier is at 10:30

Departure times are subject to change

Daily from 1st June to 1st September 2024

Daily from 2nd september to 27th october 2024, daily from 28th october to 31st december 2024, book your next adventure today.

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London-Tilbury (England)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Ireland - UK - British Isles

Local Time 2024-04-11 18:18

Port London-Tilbury cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from London-Tilbury, England. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Tilbury is a port city in Thurrock (Essex, England). Founded in late-19th century, this is major deep-water harbour port that handles bulk cargo ships, car carriers, containerships and also timber traffic. Following Felixstowe and Southampton , Tilbury is currently ranked UK's 3rd largest container port, UK's main paper importing port (including newsprint) and UK's fastest growing seaport. London's other cruise port is Greenwich .

The majority of the city's inhabitants were employed in the docks until the introduction of standardised containers. The resulting loss of jobs was never made up, and today Tilbury has high unemployment and employment and education prospects are widely perceived as poor.

Port Tilbury

Tilbury port is on Thames River, and is London's principal (deep-water) port. Port facilities include terminals for handling vessels shipping to London bulk cargoes, containers and cars.

Seaport's construction was approved in 1882 when the British Parliament allowed docks at Tilbury to be built. The port's first ship docked in April 1886. Tilbury's main dock was on Gravesend Reach, and connected with three branching docks (East, Central, West). The port also had 2 dry docks.

In 1909, the port became part of the company "Port of London Authority", which made major infrastructure improvements in 1921 and 1929. The improvements included new lock (linking the docks directly to the river) and new (3rd) drydock.

In the period 1963–66 was built a 4th branch dock and tidal basin was closed (eventually filled in). In 1969 a new grain terminal was built. In 1967 was opened a new container cargo port. In 1978, a new riverside berth for large boxships was opened. In 1992, Port Tilbury was privatized and became part of Forth Ports.

"Port of Tilbury Group" reopened the one-time passenger landing stage as "London Cruise Terminal", though it's no longer served by the railway.

In 2017, the London-Tilbury cruise port had scheduled 64 ship calls, of which 55 were from CMV . For 2018, the port had booked 71 calls. As of 2017, the largest cruise liner in Tilbury is the  TUI ship Mein Schiff 3 (docked on Sept 12, 2017). The 2014-launched Schiff 3 vessel has LOA length of 960 ft (293 m) and max passenger capacity 2700 (plus 1000 crew).

On February 26, 2018, P&O Ferries  announced company's agreement with Forth Ports to use for berthing the new Thames River berth at Port Tilbury (read more in the "Terminal" section).

In April 2022 starts operations (entirely based on homeporting in Tilbury) the new brand "Ambassador Cruise Line" with its first ship Ambience (fka Pacific Dawn) . The company offers roundtrips to ports in Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, the Canaries, the Caribbean (including Cuba).

Port Tilbury2

On February 20, 2019, the port owner (Forth Ports) received official development consent to build the new port Tilbury2. The new terminal is adjacent to the current port in Thurrock (land size 930 acres / 1,5 mi2 / 3,8 km2). Port Tilbury2 is sized 152 acres (0,23 mi2 / 0,6 km2) and on the location of the ex Tilbury Power Station.

New port's construction works started in early-March 2019, with scheduled completion in 2020-Q3. The project was privately funded. In late-October 2019 the project joined Lafarge Tarmac - 2013-founded UK company (merger of Lafarge France with Tarmac UK) specializing in building materials, construction, maintenance, and waste services. Lafarge Tarmac was contracted to build onsite aggregate processing and manufacturing facilities and supply all raw and processed construction materials (including asphalt and concrete).

Tilbury2 will be UK’s largest ferry port and also UK’s biggest terminal for construction materials. Port's expansion is mainly due to rising demand from UK’s construction industry, import-export cars and increased Ro-Ro ferry traffic UK-Europe (consumer goods, perishables, steel).

TheE GBP 200 million (EUR 231m / USD 261m) project includes the construction of new rail-road connections, a deepwater berth (jetty and pontoon), dedicated terminal for construction materials (import, distribution, processing-manufacturing), rail terminal (with capacity to handle freight trains with max-length 775 m / 2543 ft), storage areas for goods, parking areas for cars. Tilbury2's RO-RO ferry terminal (partnership with P&O Ferries) will also serve the import-export of TEU-containers and trailers.

Tilbury - Gravesend ferry

In May 2017, the company Jetstream Tours started Thames River crossing ferry operations (between Tilbury and Gravesend) with one high-speed trimaran vessel named "Thames Swift" (formerly "Martin Chuzzlewhit"). Jetstream Tours company operates the new ferry service under a temporary contract (supported financially by Thurrock and Kent County councils) and maintains the old 6-day schedule (Monday-Saturday) the whole year-round.

• During ferry hours operates a bus service (bus line 99) from Tilbury Landing stage to Tilbury Town station. From Gravesend Town Pier, at approx 10 min walking distance is the Gravesend station.
• Ferry fares remained unchanged. Ticket prices are as follows (in brackets - adult / kids fare): Single (GBP 4 / 2), Peak Return (GBP 5 / 2,50), Off-Peak Return (GBP 3 / 2), and Saver 10 (GBP 22 / 11).
• Kids fares apply to children 5-15 yo. Kids under 5 travel free of charge, but must be accompanied by a fare-paying passenger. No more than 4 kids under 5 can travel with one fare-paying passenger.
• Peak fares apply between 5:40 - 9:15 am and between 4:15 - 7:10 pm.
• "Saver 10" ticket allows you to buy in advance  a book of 10 river crossings (either peak or off-peak). The ticket has no expiry date.
• The Thames Swift ship (capacity 50 passengers) continues to accept passengers with bicycles, but can't accommodate motorcycles of any size (foot and bicycle only). Pets (including dogs) travel free of charge, but the animal must be at all times in a carry cage or on a lead.

The ferry service is between "Port of Tilbury Landing Stage" and "Gravesend Town Pier". The pier is owned by Gravesham council and uses a pontoon (via partnership with Kent County Council). The river crossing service Tilbury-Gravesend (previously operated by "Lower Thames and Medway Passenger Boat Company") is from 2002.

London-Tilbury cruise terminal

Most (all large) cruise liners to London UK dock at Port Tilbury - on River Thames' north bank. Smaller ships may dock at the London City's "Greenwich Tier" terminal (located near to the "Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich" and close to the Greenwich railway station). Greenwich Tier is a pontoon in River Thames. Tender boats are used to ferry passengers between the boat and the pier.  The Pier is on-shore, and is where the Thames Clippers (London City's river bus service on Thames) and various other water taxis and riverboats dock.

Currently, London cruise port's two moorings (used by smaller ships) are Tower Bridge Upper and Greenwich Ship Tier (a small floating pontoon that serves vessels with LOA length up to 748 ft / 228 m). The 3rd mooring (used by Fred Olsen and Ambassador Cruise Line ) is in Essex (Tilbury Docks), located approx 20 mi / 30 km down the Thames River.

Tilbury London Cruise Terminal

Tilbury is London's principal cruise port. P&O cruise liners ("Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company") were the first using its facilities - starting in 1916. Then were inaugurated the berths specifically built for P&O. In May 1930 was inaugurated the new passenger terminal with direct rail connections to London. This passenger terminal was operated until the 1960s. The passenger terminal was reopened under the name "London Cruise Terminal" in 1995.

In 2017, London International Cruise Terminal in Port Tilbury invested GBP 1,5 million (EUR 1,7 million) in refurbishing its baggage hall (completed in October). The building's roof was also renewed (project cost GBP 1 million). The docking quay (max draft 33 ft / 10 m) was extended to 1148 ft (350 m) - completed in September, project cost GBP 2,5 million. From Tilbury, passengers can travel on MBNA Thames Clippers-operated ships (London river bus service) to Greenwich (travel time 35 min) and to Tower Bridge (travel time 50 min).

The following map of Port Tilbury shows the port's infrastructure as road links, terminals and berths. The port's dedicated cruise ship terminal is in its southern part, and near to the car terminal.

Greenwich Cruise Terminal

Cruise ships in London dock at Greenwich Pier on Thames River. The pier is located in the London Borough of Greenwich (one of the city's 32 boroughs). The Ship Tier berthing facility) is operated by Port of London Authority. Transportation options from Greenwich to central London City include bus, London Underground, light railway and the scenic river boat service to Tower Bridge. Greenwich Pier is used by smaller-sized cruise ships, mega yachrs and riverboats. The next photo shows the Pier, not the Tier.

Greenwich cruise terminal is very close to National Maritime Museum. Other popular among tourists sites located nearby are Greenwich Royal Park, Queen's House,, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich Market, Royal Observatory.

(new) London City Cruise Terminal at Enderby Wharf

In July 2015 were approved the plans for building a new cruise terminal at Enderby Wharf (in east Greenwich). These plans were hugely controversial due to the concern that larger cruise ships will generate air pollution as they are powered by dirtier fuels (an equivalent of 50 trucks running their engines 24-hour a day. So the plans were upgraded by adding shore-to-ship power capabilities to the cruise facility.

The new terminal will become the UK capital's first new shipping terminal facility since the Royal Docks' closure in 1981. It will allow cruise vessels with LOA length up to 820 ft (250 m) to stop close to London's popular tourist attractions Cutty Sark (British clipper ship built in 1869 / one of the world's fastest) and Old Royal Naval College (Maritime Greenwich, World Heritage Site).

The new plans were submitted in 2015 by Westcourt Real Estate (development company). The terminal building's size was increased to accommodate baggage handling for embarking / disembarking passengers. Construction works started in September 2015, with scheduled completion in 2018.

The Enderby Wharf London port development project also includes building of 1154 residential homes. Statistics show that Greenwich’s Royal Borough receives millions of visits each year, supports around 16000 jobs and contributes GBP 1,1 billion to London's economy. The new cruise ship terminal would bring thousands more visitors, thus boosting the capital city's tourism.

(new) P&O ferry terminal Tilbury2

On February 26, 2018,  P&O Ferries  announced company's agreement with Forth Ports to use for berthing the new Thames River berth at Port Tilbury.

• The terminal's annual freight capacity is 600,000 units.
• The new (GBP 150 million) ferry terminal will be built by 2020 (subject to planning permission).
• Development consent order was submitted by the newly created Tilbury2 company in October 2017.
• The facility will include a 152 acres (0,6 km2 / 0,2 mi2) site (part of the former Tilbury Power Station) and a deep-water jetty on Thames River. It will be linked directly to A13 (via new road).
• According to P&O Ferries' CEO, the new river berth (deep water jetty) would enable the company to cut crossing time by 1-7 hours, meaning that ferry passengers would be discharged 1 hour earlier (at 5 am), enabling them to bypass the city's morning rush hour on M25.
• In April 2018 was announced that the private company Forth Ports (Ireland) is interested in landside projects and marine works (budgeted around GBP 80 million) for the Tilbury2 port expansion.
• Tilbury2 project is a substantial part of Forth Port's GBP 1 billion investment plans for Port Tilbury.

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Family travel adventures

A boat trip on the River Thames aboard the Paddle Steamer Waverley

• smudgedpostcard
• 10th November 2017
• Culture , days out , London , UK

Have you taken a boat trip on the River Thames? Ever since taking a tour of London’s Tower Bridge , my six year old son has been desperate to see the bridge lift, ideally from a boat-based vantage point. So a few weeks ago, thanks to a grandfather who is always keen to indulge his grandson in anything historic or river-related, we took a trip aboard the Paddle Steamer Waverley on the River Thames in London.

Our journey took us from Tower Pier, next to the Tower of London, to Gravesend in Kent. It is possible to continue on to Southend but as it was October we decided we might not be seeing the famous seaside resort at its best. It turned out that the two hour sail to Gravesend was just right although my three year old son was so captivated by the engine room that we could probably have stayed on the boat all day.

The Waverley took a while to set off, but docked at Tower Pier we had a perfect view of Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, HMS Belfast and the Shard, landmarks that my boys are currently very interested in to put it mildly.

Once we were off, we briefly headed upstream where we were assisted by a tugboat in a 180 degree turn. Due in part to the heavy bias towards transportation in my sons’ picture books, my boys loved everything about this experience. We then watched Tower Bridge lift and we sailed beneath it, much to the delight of everyone on board, especially my children.

The boys loved gazing across the river at the sights we passed. “There it is again!” they chorused as we passed Canary Wharf for the second time. I’m not sure my explanation of river formations was fully appreciated as we sailed along the meanders of the Thames. Other highlights included the Cutty Sark, the Emirates Air Line cable cars and the Thames Barrier which looked rather sinister against the overcast sky.

Once we had passed the big hitters of central London we ventured down into the bowels of the boat to explore the workings of the engine room. It is very hot and loud and the machinery is completely exposed so visitors have a clear view of the mechanics involved. It is an impressive sight.

There are port holes from which to view the paddles turning and some great views out over the river from around the engine room.

The Waverley is the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world. Aside from the Thames, you’ll find her sailing all over the U.K. including Southampton, Liverpool and the west coast of Scotland. She is owned by a charity and has been sailing since 1947 so this year marked her 70th anniversary.

The Waverley has a gift shop, several bars and a restaurant. We decided to have lunch in Gravesend so I can’t comment on the quality of the catering except to say that it doesn’t look like a gourmet experience.

Our trip was a brilliant way to understand London and its history. The shiny skyscrapers of central London gave way to docks and warehouses. Many of the warehouses are now luxury flats, others are derelict and awaiting demolition; but plenty of the docks further downstream were very much in use with rows of gigantic cranes and masses of containers awaiting transportation. The stuff of dreams for small boys…

We saw all manner of watercraft from historic ships to modern pleasure boats, container ships and water taxis. Away from the city we passed a landfill site, a vast ominous lump on the landscape with diggers working on the slopes. There was so much for the children to see and understand on the trip that the adults in our group struggled to keep up a commentary for them.

The day out has to be one of my most enjoyable London trips with my family to date. Anyone who reads my blog regularly will know we took to the water in a more modest boat on a canal , in September with equal success and enjoyment. Watching the world go by from a boat is a special kind of experience which works so well as a multi-generational family trip. For those with little legs or with legs which might be failing (or perhaps you have a foot in each of these camps), a boat trip is a great way to explore together.

We took the Tower Bridge and Thames Highlights trip which lasted 2 hours and takes you to Gravesend (there is a speedy rail link back to central London).

The cost per adult is £25, children under 18 are half price and those under 5 are free. The rail travel from Gravesend back to London is £16 if you take the high speed Javelin service (around 15 minutes) otherwise you can take the standard service at £12 (around an hour). Just make sure you buy the right ticket…

Have you taken a boat trip on the River Thames? Let me know in the comments below.

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59 thoughts on “ A boat trip on the River Thames aboard the Paddle Steamer Waverley ”

That sounds like a great way to travel! I love Tower Bridge. It’s funny I was at the restaurant at the Shard not too long ago and we were saying wouldn’t it be nice for the Tower Bridge to open. Well of course it did open while I was in the bathroom! Luckily I made it back just before it closed. #TheWeeklyPostcard.

Great timing!

What an excellent day trip. The ferry ride, going under the Tower bridge and seeing how the steamboat works – my son would love it!

This is such a brilliant trip for any transport-obsessed child!

my boys would also love to take this trip. They love as well ships and train, especially steam ones. I have noted itfor a future trip to London

Definitely do it! It is such a brilliant day out.

Omgosh this is such a better option than what we did! We took the Cyclone Clipper and hated it. It was terrible! Zooming down the Thames with no outer balcony and it was hot inside. This is definitely a to-do next time! Thanks for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard!

That’s interesting, I’ve often wondered about doing that trip, good to know!

Wow, what an awesome trip – I didn’t even know this type of tour (on a paddleboat) was available! Will definitely have to check it out next time I visit London.

Definitely plan it in advance as she doesn’t sail frequently.

This sounds like a lovely way to see the city. We went on a river cruise recently, which was fun, but this has the added bonus of being an interesting vessel. Being able to see round the engine room is a nice touch. Thanks for linking up with #CulturedKids!

We’re definitely going to take to the water again, it’s such a great way to see London.

I’m a big fan of the Waverley on the West Coast of Scotland. But the Thames, now that would be something new. #culturedkids

I’d like to try Scotland!

What a brilliant day out. I went on the Waverley over 30 years ago and loved her, this a special route and I’m heading to her website now to find out when she will paddle the route again. Thank you for linking up to #CulturedKids

This does sound like a little boy’s dream daytrip! I’m sure your kids will never forget the experience. And to do it on the last paddle steamer in the world is so cool! I’m not much of a boat person myself – for me it’s a means to an end (diving), but I do remember a very enjoyable cruise down the River Thames many years ago. I guess it’s one of those things you have to do at least once in your life when you’re in London!

Think of it as a great way to see the city rather than just a boat trip!

What a fantastic day out – I love being on the Thames and taking boat trips, although I hadn’t come across this option before. Seeing the bridge lift is a real experience too, still thrills me – despite living in London for so long, I’ve only seen it once as well. Thanks for linking up with #citytripping

Yes, we tried to see the bridge lift on lots of occasions but never been there on the right day. I expect it’s one of those things that tourists see more than the locals!

It took 2 hours one way but you can do full day trips too.

what a lot of fun!

It was, will definitely be doing it again!

What a fantastic day out. My boys would love this. We were lucky enough to see the bridge lift from dry land in the summer and they loved it but this would be even better. We are thinking of a canal boat trip. Where sis you go? #ExplorerKids

We did a canal trip from Odiham near Basingstoke, it was so relaxing and peaceful.

That looks like an amazing day. My boys would be thrilled as well! #ExplorerKids

My children have been asking about going on a boat for a long time. I shall have to look into this. Sarah #ExplorerKids

It’s totally worth doing, a great way to see London and an exciting boat to explore!

What a great way to see London at its best we would love this and to see the tower bridge open and go under it is fantasic. I will definitely check this out for when we visit Next. Mandy xx #ExplorerKids

It’s a great trip, we all loved it!

What a wonderful way to explore the Thames. I have been on the Thames many times before but never this extensively educational. This is such a great tour. I think my 6 yo boy Ethan would love it too, as well as Evelyn. I think most touristy tour operator like to opt out on the landfills bit, but I think this is a great way to learn about London as a developing city. Thank you so much or linking up with us on #ExplorerKids I really enjoyed reading your post and that hope you can join us again tomorrow! 🙂 xx

How my boys, and girl, would love that! I used to live in London but only ever saw Tower Bridge open a handful of times in my seven years there. What a fabulous thing to see it open from the water! The Waverley is going on my London bucket list this very minute! Popping over belatedly from #ExplorerKids

I’ve decided travelling by boat is my preferred mode of sightseeing!

It was great to read this. Many years ago, when I was a child I sailed on The Waverley in Scotland. It was wonderful and I was very proud to have been on the last sea going paddle steamer in the world.

I’d love to sail on her in Scotland.

Yes, it’s definitely my favourite way to sightsee with my kids!

I’ve been to London about a million times but never been on a tug boat up the Thames yet. It’s such a brilliant way to see so many landmarks in one go!

That looks like such a fun excursion! I have discovered London in many ways, but never from the water. #WanderfulWednesday

Definitely take a trip on the Thames, it gives a totally different perspective to the city.

What a fun experience for kids. I know my kids would love this. They are also crazy about boats. #wanderfulwednesday

For kids and adults alike!

I love boat trips down the Thames – they are just the best way to see the ciry. However this one trumps them all. Seeing the engine is the icing on the cake! #FamilyTravelTips

Yes, it’s such a lovely way to travel!

This is such a fun alternative way to see London! I love zipping down the Thames as you get to see London from a quieter way 🙂

I love sightseeing by boat and even more so, if the boat comes with history! Adding this to my never-ending London bucket list 🙂

It’s such a relaxing way of sightseeing and a great way of showing the kids the sights of London without them having to walk for miles!

What a lovely and unique way to see the sights of London. And I had no idea there was a paddle boat! Perfect for any kid who loves modes of transport. #familytraveltips

Yes, I’d like to sail on the boat elsewhere in the UK next time!

Oh, this looks amazing! Definitely something to go on my list of things to do in London. I have never seen the bridge to up either, pretty sure the children would enjoy it but I definitely would! Thanks for linking up to #familytraveltips Nat.x

We’d tried for years to see the bridge lift, amazing how hard it is to be there at the right moment!

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Oh how fun!! We took the Clipper down the Thames but that was terrible. This would have been much more exciting! #FarawayFiles

I’ve tried to book on to the Waverley before (to see the sea forts) but the dates are very restricted and never quite work out. Having just looked on their website it’s amazing how many other places it sails from/to! #farawayfiles

Yes, I was impressed by the range of itineraries. I’m hoping we’ll go on it again next year.

This is such a brilliant idea for a day out, Annabel! You’ve really inspired me. I know my boys would absolutely love to see Tower Bridge opening up for them and I’ve not heard of The Waverley before. Fantastic share for #FarawayFiles

It is a really brilliant day out and such a great way to learn about London. We need to book another trip!

Such a lovely day out, very relaxing and gives you a different perspective on your surroundings.

It brought back memories of when my Dad worked on the tugs on the River Thames #farawayfiles

Wow, that must have been an interesting job!

Oh yes! Perfection. Love seeing a city from the water and I can only imagine the delight on your dear littles faces. Love that it is perfect for multi-generations as well. How very special to connect to the history and experience together. Thanks so much for sharing with #FarawayFiles!

Boat trips are my fav activity for multi gen outings!

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Gravesend Cruises

There are currently no cruises running from Gravesend. 

The Gravesend to Tilbury ferry is running Monday- Saturday

Gravesend to Tilbury Ferry

Every day (monday to saturday).

The Gravesend to Tilbury Ferry operates daily from 05:40am to 19:00pm. The crossing takes only 5 minutes and is a great way to visit Essex and the surrounding counties.

Cross the river and jump on a Train to southend and within 1 hour you could be enjoying the Sea side and fun fair rides on the beach.

Day trip to Southend

Currently unavailable.

For many years paddle steamers such as the “Medway Queen” have offered trips across the Thames Estuary to the world’s longest pier at Southend. Join us on this fantastic day out to once again have fish and chips on the beach, visit Adventure Island or ride the train to the end of the pier. Time ashore will vary depending on tides but we aim to give you about 4-5 hours of free time.

Approximate timings:

0930                Depart Gravesend

1115                Arrive Southend*

1115/1145       Train departs from End of Pier to Shore

1130 - 1530     Explore Southend

1530                Train departs from Shore to end of Pier

1600                Boat Departs Southend* 

1730-1800       Boat arrives Gravesend* 

*Times may vary based on the tide.

Onboard facilities include a  Bar, selling Alcoholic and soft drinks and light snacks. A small Toilet is also available onboard.

All tickets include the Pier train .

Note: Southend Pier is accessible via a steep ramp. This is not suitable for wheelchairs or for the mobility impaired.

We have tours to Southend from other Kent Piers 

Please note Jetstream Tours does not operate the Gravesend Town Pontoon.

Berthing Enquiries should be directed to Gravesend Pontoon Ltd on 07949 750236

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The Gravesend River Trail

by activethames

Go Jauntly have a fantastic walk just for you.

You can check out this walking route on the Go Jauntly app. Your walking app for everyday outdoor adventures.

Download our free walking app and own a pocket-sized encyclopedia of urban walks.

Download a PDF guide for The Gravesend River Trail - The Gravesend River Trail guide

Preview Steps

Download the app to get all the steps for this walk.

Step 1: Welcome to this riverside walk around Gravesend. We’re starting this jaunt from Gravesend Station. Turn right to walk along Clive Road.

Step 2: Trains to and from Ramsgate, Rainham (Kent) and London St Pancras operate from this station. Local buses also depart from outside the station on Clive Road.

Step 3: On your left will be the Pocahontas Mural. It depicts the story of how Princess Pocahontas came to be in Gravesend.

Step 4: Pocahantas saved Captain John Smith in 1607, whilst in Virginia. She went on to marry John Rolfe in 1613, and along with her son Thomas, came to England.

Step 5: Pocahontas, who then went by the name Rebecca Rolfe, was received at the Royal Court of KIng James I and Queen Anne.

Step 6: At the end of Clive Road turn left onto Stone Street. Continue until you reach New Road.

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Gravesend: a circular walk exploring the Shorne & Higham Marshes

Gravesend is a gateway town, a final outpost as the Thames meanders towards the North Sea. The streets are rich in history but marred by a modern, one-way system. Traffic accelerates through the town and spits from junctions, a threat to the unwary pedestrian. However, beyond the town’s gritty, industrial quarter, paths lead out to the quietness of remote marshes and the sparsely-populated Hoo Peninsula.

The Promenade makes for a good start point, overlooking the river. Nearby, an old canal basin is home to residential moorings. The disused basin was dredged in 2004 and the tidal lock gate restored, allowing access from the Thames. The canal which served this basin has been lost under industrial development, but it’s not far away and may soon resurface.

A footbridge crosses the lock, and the path enters a rundown industrial zone, formerly a 19 th century iron works and later a timber yard. A narrow lane leads between tall, battered walls of corroding brick and layered corrugated iron. Muted hammering carries from behind boarded windows and blocked doors. A tang of solvent, smoke and burnt plastic tinges the air.

The path narrows then passes an overgrown tangle of undergrowth, enclosed by a high, barred fence. A stained and laminated printout, cable-tied to the barrier, tells of a largely forgotten story. Nearby, compacted beneath seven metres of landfill and concrete, lie the remains of a Hawker Hurricane fighter aircraft, shot down during the Second World War. The pilot, Flight Sergeant Eric Williams, is probably still at the controls.

Flight Sergeant Eric Williams

On October 15, 1940, Williams had taken off from RAF Stapleford in Essex, along with other Hurricane pilots, to intercept German raiders coming up the Thames. However, they were ambushed by Messerschmitt 109s as they rose to meet the incoming bombers, and three Hurricanes were quickly shot down.

Williams crashed into what was then Barton’s Timber Wharf, apparently unconscious or dead at the controls. The aircraft went so hard and deep into the water-logged ground that the Royal Engineers, tasked with recovering his body, were unable to do so. Since then, there have been several official attempts to locate his remains, along with other unofficial digs. There is some confusion as to exactly where the aircraft ended up, with differing accounts and no hard evidence.

The Ministry of Defence suggests that the main body of wreckage may have been taken by amateur aviation archaeologists, leaving only fragmentary remains. But nobody knows for sure. For now, Williams remains the only British pilot shot down over the mainland, whose remains have not been recovered, or marked on-site by an official plaque.

Gravesend redevelopment

Gravesend’s industrial area is likely to be lost to development in the near future, providing one last opportunity to record, and mark, Williams’s resting place. A lost section of the Thames and Medway Canal also lies buried below the industrial estate. With redevelopment, the canal is likely to be restored as an ornamental leisure feature.

Emerging from the industrial estate, a crossroads provides a direct route towards the Thames or a straight-line path ahead. This path follows the line of the canal, now open to the sky.

The Thames and Medway Canal was a great idea that never quite worked out. The idea, first suggested in 1799, was to create a canal shortcut across the Hoo Peninsula, linking the naval dockyards at Deptford and Woolwich with Chatham Dockyard on the River Medway.

A long canal tunnel had to be dug through the chalk ridge which overlooks the Hoo, between the village of Higham and the town of Strood, overlooking the Medway. More than two miles long, this is the second longest canal tunnel in the UK. However, when the canal eventually opened in 1824, the Napoleonic wars were long over, and military demand was much reduced.

The canal continued with limited success, and in 1846 the tunnel was sold to the South Eastern Railway company, and the rest abandoned. The North Kent Line now follows the line of the canal, punching through the tunnel on the infilled canal bed.

Riots and reedbeds

For a while, the canal path traces riverside industry, and then the Metropolitan Police Service Specialist Training Centre. Within the compound, mock streets and buildings provide a training ground for riots and ‘entry and search’ procedures. Farther to the east, the Milton Firing Range, on Eastcourt Marshes, is now the Met’s firing range. This was formerly a military training ground and dates back to 1862.

Reedbeds line the canal and on an autumnal afternoon, the footpath’s banks are lined with colourful wild berries, a feast for incoming migratory birds. Several redwing were feeding in the branches, refuelling after flying in from Russia or Scandinavia. Overhead, pylons and transmission lines offer a fizzy, audio-static backdrop to the birdsong and industry.

Along the path, in fields to the left, two curious structures stand, isolated doorways which emerge from the rough grazing pasture. Perhaps these were connected with the nearby firing range, from which shells were lobbed onto the marshes, liberally dotting the landscape with bomb crater ponds.

The path comes to another crossroads. A bridlepath leads directly out to the Thames and the ruined Shornemead Fort, but you can also continue along the canal. The waterway eventually becomes overgrown, petering out where it meets an industrial estate.  

From here, Canal Road quickly takes us to a railway bridge and the entrance to another, small industrial estate. Tucked away between the railway embankment and the fenced estate, a public footpath squeezes its wooded way towards Higham Marshes. This is a little-walked path, and all the better for it.

Higham Causeway and Barrow Hill

At a basic railway crossing, a wooden sign catches the attention, marking a route out to the River Thames across Higham Marshes. Much of this path is believed to follow the line of the ancient Higham Causeway, which led to a ferry across the Thames to Essex. In Roman times, when water levels were much lower, the river crossing may even have been a wide ford.

Out on the marshes, a low mounded hillock is reminiscent of a prehistoric burial mound. Barrow Hill is a natural feature and not a manmade cairn, but it may have been the site of an ancient burial site, discovered in 1880.

Excavations on Higham Marshes revealed a crushed, crouched skeleton along with 79 beads, which appeared to have been hung around the deceased’s neck. The exact location of this excavation is unclear, but Barrow Hill is the most likely spot, being the only ‘high’ ground on the marshes. The mound also shows signs of apparent excavation.

Thames embankment

At the river embankment, a rough track continues towards the Thames. At low water, the jagged remnants of an old jetty still lead out towards the Thames. Seeking shelter from the wind I hunkered down below the river bank and noticed a curious bundle of sticks emerging from the eroding mud.

I can’t be sure, but others have suggested this is a fish trap, possibly dating back to the Bronze Age. It certainly looks handmade, rather than natural, but has yet to be recorded by experts. Remnants of a larger fish trap have been found nearby.

The lost Tudor blockhouse

As well as being the spot where Higham Causeway meets the River Thames and an ancient crossing point, this is also likely to have been the location of a small Tudor blockhouse, built in 1539. Records are sketchy, but it is known that five artillery blockhouses were built along this section of the Thames during the reign of Henry the Eighth. These forts were to guard London and the Thames against a threatened invasion from Europe.  

The Higham blockhouse was disarmed in 1553 and no trace is now apparent, either lost to the tides or the stone removed for use elsewhere. The compact, chunky foundations of one of the accompanying forts can still be seen in Gravesend at Royal Pier Road.

The river path continues downriver towards Cliffe Fort, or back towards Gravesend via Shornemead Fort. With the light already fading, I started towards Gravesend. This has previously been a pleasant walk, but trespassing dirt-bikers have churned and deeply rutted the path. I understand the fun they have, but not their lack of empathy for others who wish to enjoy these landscapes.

Shornemead Lighthouse

The foundation of the old Shornemead Lighthouse stands just off the foreshore. This unmanned lighthouse was built in 1913 and was reached by a walkway, reaching out from the river bank. Erosion of the river bank meant the walkway had to be extended, and eventually, in 2004, the lighthouse was removed. The extinguished tower now stands in storage at Denton Wharf in Gravesend, where it can be seen from Mark Lane.

The path continues towards the new Shornemead Lighthouse, a striking red and white tube rising from the river. Signs of Second World War defences can be seen along the path, half-buried when the river defences rose against a new threat, the rising tides.

Shornemead Fort

Shornemead Fort is a disused artillery fort, dating back to the 1860s. The fort was initially well armed, but eventually subsidence made it unsafe for the heavy guns to be fired. The fort was disarmed between 1895 and 1907, before being temporarily and lightly re-armed during the First and Second World Wars. It was retained as a training facility and then abandoned in the 1950s.

The Royal Engineers demolished much of the structure in the 1960s as a training exercise, leaving only the impressive, heavily fortified casemates still facing the river. The magazines remain below but are flooded and inaccessible. The structure is decorated with colourful graffiti and remains an imposing structure, although sadly the paths around the fort have been ripped and shredded by the off-road bikers.

Beyond the fort, the RSPB have dug a 1km long ditch to keep the bikers out of the Shorne Marshes nature reserve, a home to endangered wildlife. They’ve also had to contend with egg thieves, illegal hare coursing and even the theft of a £5,000 electric fence.

The path home

Between the fort and Gravesend, the river path is low, and in places, broken. Recent high tides have flooded inland, the water gouging deep channels in the sandy substrate, as it flows back to the river with the dropping tide. With the additional damage caused by bikers, this is currently a tricky stretch to walk.

Walking in the dark, I passed a floodlit cement works, and initially missed the steps leading over the seawall. A tight concrete path now channels the walker towards Gravesend, before hitting a dead end next to a boat yard.

Mark Lane leads the walker away from the river and back to the start of the canal, and the gritty path through the industrial estate. With time to kill before a train, I sipped hot soup from a thermos in the Promenade gardens, overlooking the dark Thames and distant lights of Tilbury, before making my way home.

Useful links

MOD report on search for Flight Sergeant Williams from 2015 (PDF)

Old Shornemead Lighthouse

Higham Blockhouse

Nearby walks with RemoteLondon

Ian Tokelove

I enjoy exploring the UK’s wild spaces, rivers & seas, especially in & around London. I promote kayaking, canoeing & SUP opportunities across London at www.canoelondon.com

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Victorian passenger steamboats on the Thames

A vessel of the Waterman Steamboat Company in the 1840s. Other steamboats can be seen in the distance on the right of the picture. It appears not to have any below-deck cabins and was therefore probably a ‘short-ferry’, plying between Greenwich and London rather than a long-ferry or designed for longer day-trips. The Waterman’s pier at Greenwich was constructed to take a million passengers a year.

The introduction of steamboat services on the River Thames in the early 19 th century made it possible to commute to London from as far as Gravesend. They also gave ordinary Londoners their first opportunity to take day or weekend trips to Estuary and coastal resorts such as Southend, Margate, and Ramsgate.

The earliest steam-powered boats were developed in France during the 18 th century, then later in Scotland and New York. The engine on these early steamboats powered paddle-wheels on each side of the vessel. By 1819 steamship design had advanced enough that vessels were capable of crossing the Atlantic. The first sea-crossing by an iron-hulled steamship was in 1822.

Such was the poor state of England’s roads in the early 19 th century that it was far easier to make the journey from the north-east of England to London by sailing vessel, typically taking about nine days. By the 1840s coastal steamships had cut the longer journey from Edinburgh to London to just three days.

For a 30-year period, between 1830 and 1860, the Thames was busy with paddle-wheeled steamboats of various sizes, zig-zagging between the many piers on either side of the river, smoke belching from their tall, jagged-edged funnels. Rings around their funnels indicated their destination. On weekdays they were used by business commuters, and for pleasure trips at weekends. It was estimated that 200 steamers were working on the river by 1844. The weekly Steamboat Excursion Guide was being published in London by 1841.

The earliest of the steamboats were built along the lines of sailboats but with the addition of a steam engine, a funnel, and paddle wheels. The hulls were of very similar design. Below deck, larger vessels were built with a fore-cabin forward and a saloon cabin aft of the engine room. Both were entered by means of a steep flight of stairs. Many steamboats were designed double-ended to allow them to swiftly zig-zag across the river from pier to pier. One of the leading companies building paddle-steamers was Yarrow’s on the east side of the Isle of Dogs.

There were numerous piers along the river through London from which to catch a boat, especially prior to the construction of the Victoria Embankment. In 1837 there were steamboat services operating between Kew, Richmond, Chelsea, Westminster Bridge, Hungerford Market, London Bridge, Blackwall, Woolwich, and Gravesend. ‘Short-ferries’ operated to and from London and Greenwich and Woolwich. Prices on short journeys were very low due to cut-throat competition, with London Bridge to Westminster costing 1d (one penny) and London Bridge to Chelsea just 2d (two pence). During the early 1840s as many as 17 scheduled steamer ‘long-ferry’ departures left daily in each direction from London to Gravesend. In 1846 there was a steamer leaving London Bridge for Westminster by rival companies every four minutes for the 15-minute journey.

For passengers alighting from Blackwall Railway trains there were also steamers from Brunswick Pier at Blackwall to Gravesend, a journey of about one hour. Most passengers arriving at Gravesend disembarked at Town Pier but those vessels belonging to the Blackwall Railway Company berthed at Terrace Pier. Steamboats moored at Gravesend departed by 7am and thus provided a means for residents of the town to commute into their place of work in the City.

Steamboat services gave many working-class families their first opportunity to take an excursion out of London by water to Kew, Richmond and Hampton Court. It was a means of escape from the overcrowded and smoky streets of the capital to the green countryside of Surrey, Kent and Essex or to former fishing villages that had been transformed into pleasure resorts.

In summer months services took passengers on day or weekend trips along the Thames Estuary to Sheerness, Herne Bay, Southend, Margate, and as far as Ramsgate on the Kent coast. In 1932 the three Margate Steam-Boat Company’s steamers carried 100,000 passengers from St. Katharine’s Dock. The General Steam Navigation Company were already operating from London to Margate, Ramsgate, and Yarmouth prior to 1837 and continued well into the 20 th century with only a break for the First World War. Such trips were a leisurely and pleasant affair, with a three-piece band on board, including a harpist, and starting the day with breakfast for one shilling. In some weeks steamers left London for Herne Bay and Margate on alternate days, returning the following day. In the height of the season they sailed daily, returning the same day. Ramsgate was reached by the powerful vessels of the Commercial Company, leaving London Bridge Wharf and calling at South Woolwich. In 1845 the fastest steamer on the Thames was the Herne , which could travel from Blackwall to Herne Bay in three hours and forty-nine minutes. Larger, long-distance boats could carry over a thousand passengers on the river but their licences only permitted half those numbers on the Estuary and open sea beyond Sheerness. Some middle-class families spent entire summers at one of the resorts. The husbands continued working in the City, taking the first steamer – the ‘husbands’ boat’ – out of London on Saturday morning to join the wife and children.

A popular weekend destination for Londoners was Rosherville pleasure gardens, which opened at Northfleet in 1837, reaching a peak twenty years later when 20,000 people visited in one week. The gardens were laid out over seventeen acres in disused chalk pits. Two brass bands greeted visitors, who were able to visit a zoo, a Gothic dining room, and a theatre, and be entertained by famous performers.

Southend-on-Sea in Essex is not actually on the sea but is located where the Thames Estuary opens out enough that the Kent coast on the far side is only just visible. The transformation from a few fishing huts into a major resort at the south end of the original village of Prittlewell began in the late 18 th century, with the Grand Hotel opening in 1794. The water is very shallow and the sea recedes a long distance at low tide, making it difficult for boats to reach the shore. In 1829 the Lord Mayor of London, Sir William Heygate, was a resident of the town and he resolved to have a pier built out into the Estuary that would allow passengers to board and disembark from boats, even a low tide. A 600 feet-long wooden pier was opened the following year, complete with a horse-drawn railway. Thereafter excursion steamers could bring holiday-makers from London during the summer months.

When steamers originally began arriving at Herne Bay it was necessary for passengers to reach the shore by means of a hoy, that is a small sailing boat. As the number of visitors increased, George Burge, who had been contracted by Thomas Telford to construct the St. Katharine Docks, led a group of investors in constructing a pier, specifically for steamers. It was designed and built by Telford’s assistant, Thomas Rhodes, while Telford himself was constructing nearby Whitstable Harbour. The 3,000 feet-long pier opened in 1832, at the same time as the Pier Hotel. The steamer service was discontinued in 1862, under competition from the railway, and the original pier dismantled in 1870.

Margate was a simple fishing village until sailing vessels began bringing holiday-makers in the 18 th century, lured by the town’s fine sand beaches. Others came for the healthy sea air. In 1815 the engineer John Rennie completed the harbour, allowing steamships to bring large numbers of Londoners to the town. One of those who arrived by steamer in 1829 was the artist J.M.W Turner, and thereafter he often stayed at Margate, fascinated by its sunsets.

• London during the mid-19th Century

As London grew in size, and as technology became available, new forms of transport were created to link parts of the capital, as well as with other towns around the country.

The Metropolitan District railway – the creation of the Circle Line

London’s first underground railway

The London & Blackwall Railway – one of the capital’s strangest railways

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