Thames Barrier

The spectacular Thames Barrier is one of the world’s largest movable flood barriers in the world. It is a vital element of London’s flood defences. When tides are high enough to pose a flood threat (usually during the Spring), all of the Barrier’s 10 steel gates are raised to hold back the excess tidal flow and protect the city beyond. To give you a better idea of what an incredible feat of engineering it is, each of the gates is the height of a five-storey building and weighs 3,300 tonnes. In addition to seeing the Barrier from the water on a TRS cruise, there is a visitors centre at the Barrier itself.

Visitor information:

Regular events: 

• Scheduled closures for maintenance

Website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-thames-barrier

Address: Eastmoor St, Royal Docks, London, SE7 8LX

Nearest pier for TRS sightseeing cruises: Greenwich (Blue Route)

Nearest tube: Cutty Sark (for Maritime Greenwich)

• DLR (Bank to Lewisham branch)

Useful to know:

• If you would like to know how the Thames Barrier works, watch this video by the Environmental Agency www.youtube.com/watch?v=jp4Y1HrRBD0