Woolwich ferry

The Woolwich ferry is a free service operating between Woolwich and North Woolwich, linking the north and south circular roads across the River Thames.

Normal ferry schedule

The ferry service operates every five to ten minutes. Here is the normal ferry schedule:

Monday to Friday

  • 6.10am to 8pm (two-boat service)
  • Last boat from South to North 7.45pm

Saturday and public holidays

  • 6.10am to 8pm (one-boat service)
  • Last boat from South to North 7.45pm

Sunday

  • 11.30am to 7.30pm, one boat (15-minute service)
  • Last trip from South to North 7.15pm

Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day

  • No service on 25 and 26 December and on 1 January

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 and river service information and timetables.

Check live river service updates

The ferry service is for vehicles, including lorries, as well as pedestrians and bicycles. Read more about crossing the river by bike.

Restrictions

There is a maximum height restriction for vehicles of 4.7 metres, or 15.5 feet, and a maximum width restriction of 3.5 metres, or 11.5 feet.

Abnormal loads

Those needing special arrangements for abnormal loads should contact the ferry manager on 020 8853 9400. Vehicles displaying Hazchem signs are prohibited.

Dangerous goods

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 to be used for moving the vehicle or operating its equipment

Who runs the ferry?

The ferry service is owned and financed by Transport for London and is operated by Briggs Marine.

Foot tunnel

Pedestrians can also use the Woolwich foot tunnel to get from one side of the Thames to the other.

Find out about foot tunnels

History of the Woolwich ferry

Ever wondered how the Woolwich ferry came about?

Read about the history of the Woolwich ferry