Sail up the Thames by fast clipper to Greenwich — the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time — then stand astride the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory and explore the tea clipper Cutty Sark, the finest surviving Victorian sailing ship in the world.
What to expect
Transfer to central London, then board a Thames Clipper from Westminster or Embankment Pier for a 45-minute river journey with views of the City skyline and Canary Wharf. At Greenwich, the tea clipper Cutty Sark sits in dry dock — board her and stand beneath her hull for a sense of Victorian maritime ambition. Climb through Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory for the Prime Meridian and spectacular views over the Queen's House and the Thames. The covered Greenwich Market offers artisan lunch before the return journey.
Good to know
Allow 5–6 hours total from Tilbury. Drive or taxi to central London first (approx. 45 mins), then take the Thames Clipper. Pre-book Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark tickets online — both sell out on busy days. Greenwich Market is open Wednesday–Sunday. Check all-aboard time carefully: a 5 pm all-aboard is comfortable; a 4 pm would be tight.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Tilbury (London) — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Tilbury (London)
- Private London Icons Tour by Black Cab from Tilbury Port
- Tower of London Crown Jewels & Beefeater Private Tour
- Westminster Abbey: Nave, Royal Tombs & Chapter House
- The British Museum: Rosetta Stone, Elgin Marbles & Private Highlights Tour
- Tilbury Fort: Queen Elizabeth I's Armada Speech & Tudor Defences