Woolwich ferry
The Woolwich ferry is a free service, operated by Transport for London, between Woolwich and North Woolwich, linking the north and south circular roads across the River Thames. The two boats used in the service carry pedestrians, cyclists, cars, vans and lorries.
Strike action
Strike action is planned on Friday 14 May. There will be no service on the Woolwich Ferry all day. Strike action is also planned to take place on Monday 24 and Friday 28 May, and on Tuesday 1, Friday 4, Monday 7, Friday 11 and Monday 21 June.
Passengers on foot should use the Woolwich Foot Tunnel or take the DLR between King George V and Woolwich Arsenal. Drivers should use alternative crossings at Dartford, Blackwall and Rotherhithe, subject to vehicle restrictions.
Normal ferry schedule
Monday to Saturday and public holidays
- 7am to 7pm
One boat runs approximately every 20-25 minutes throughout the day.
Sunday
- 11.30am to 7.30pm
One boat runs approximately every 20-25 minutes throughout the day.
Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day
- No service on 25 and 26 December or on 1 January
Tides and weather
The Woolwich Ferry is not usually affected by tidal conditions, but Transport for London (TfL) sometimes need to suspend the service when there is an extremely high tide.
TfL suspends the service when there is dense fog in the area.
Pier locations
The ferry and pier on the south (Woolwich) side of the river is located at:
New Ferry Approach,Woolwich SE18 6DX
The ferry and pier on the north (Newham) side of the river is located at:
Pier Road,London E16 2JJ.
Travel updates
For updates, check Transport for London live travel news.
Check live river service updates
Vehicle restrictions
Maximum size
Maximum height: 4.7 metres or 15.5 feet
Maximum width: 3.5 metres or 11.5 feet
Dangerous goods
Vehicles displaying Hazchem signs are prohibited.
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code contains a list of dangerous or harmful substances known as the Dangerous Goods List. Any vehicle or trailer carrying any substance specified in the Dangerous Goods List will not be allowed on the Woolwich Ferry.
This excludes any fuel that is contained in the tanks of the vehicle and is used for moving the vehicle or operating its equipment.
Who runs the ferry?
The ferry service is owned, financed and operated by Transport for London (TfL).
Foot tunnel
Pedestrians can also use the Woolwich foot tunnel to get from one side of the Thames to the other.
History of the Woolwich ferry
Ever wondered how the Woolwich ferry came about?