Moored in Greenwich on the Thames, the Cutty Sark is a restored 19th-century tea clipper offering maritime history, interactive exhibits and waterfront views. This guide will show you how to plan your visit—opening hours, ticketing, transport, accessibility, best times and nearby things to do so your day runs smoothly.
History and overview of the Cutty Sark
The Cutty Sark was built in 1869 and was one of the fastest clippers in her day, carrying tea and later wool between China, Australia and the UK. After years of decline she was saved, conserved and raised in dry dock in Greenwich so visitors can now walk under her hull and explore the decks. The ship represents an era when sail, trade and ocean voyages shaped many lives and economies.
Today she is part of Royal Museums Greenwich. On board you’ll find restored crew quarters, exhibits about life at sea, stories of navigation, cargo and maritime trade. There are audio guides, educational displays and often volunteer explainers who bring the history alive. The experience combines enclosed historic spaces and outdoor decks, together with views across the Thames and the Greenwich riverside setting.
- Make sure you get in by booking a Cutty Sark ticket in advance.
How to get there and where to park
The Cutty Sark is located on King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 9HT, right by the river. It is very accessible by public transport: take the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) to Cutty Sark station, or use mainline rail via Greenwich or Maze Hill. Also, the Thames Clipper river boat service to Greenwich Pier is a scenic alternative.
Driving is less convenient. The ship does not have its own large public car park. The nearest car parks are those near the National Maritime Museum and Greenwich town centre. For disabled visitors, there are a few Blue Badge parking bays nearby (for example in Park Row), but these are limited and should be booked or checked ahead where possible. Traffic in Greenwich can be busy, and streets around the site are often narrow.
Opening hours and ticket prices
The Cutty Sark is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at about 4:15 PM. During summer (late June to early September), opening hours extend to 6:00 PM with last entry around 5:15 PM. The ship is closed on 24, 25 and 26 December.
As of September 2025, admission (non-member) to the Cutty Sark is £22 for adults, £11 for children aged 4-15, and £16.50 for students with valid ID. Children under 4 go free with a paying adult. Various discounts are available (for example Universal Credit, Art Pass, Blue Light Card, etc.). Members of Royal Museums Greenwich have free unlimited entry without booking.
Accessibility and what to expect on board
The Cutty Sark has made efforts to be accessible. There are lifts giving access to most levels, including the lower galleries beneath the ship. But the original structure means some parts – such as the Masters’ Saloon, certain cabins and parts of the Main Deck – are not wheelchair accessible. Virtual access is provided for those spaces. There are accessible toilets, baby-change facilities, and buggy parking in the dry dock.
Visitors should note there are steps and gradients in Cutty Sark Gardens leading up to the ship. Staff are trained in helping visitors with sensory or mobility needs. Assistance dogs are allowed. The café on the lower ground deck serves ticket-holders.
Best times to visit and what to expect
For a calmer experience, go in the morning just after opening on a weekday. The first hour tends to be less crowded. Late afternoon before closing is quieter too, though some outdoor decks might begin to close or feel less comfortable in fading light.
Summer days bring longer opening hours and often more visitors, so arriving earlier or booking ahead helps. If weather is good, combine your visit with riverside walking: views of the hull, the Thames, small boats and the shifting light on water all add texture to the visit. Inside, the wood and metal of the ship, whispers in narrow corridors, and smell of aged timber are better appreciated when you’re not battling crowds.
Five great things to do in London
- 🚖 Take a private black cab tour around London’s highlights – with hotel pick-up.
- 🧙 Discover Harry Potter filming locations – and spots that inspired the books – on a wizarding walking tour.
- 🍴 Taste the best of British cuisine on a food tour through Borough Market.
- 🚲 Combine landmarks, pubs and street art – on a guided bike tour.
- ⛴️ Take a sightseeing cruise along the Thames from Westminster to Greenwich.
Nearby attractions you can combine into the same day
Greenwich is rich with things to see. After the Cutty Sark, walk a few minutes to the Greenwich Market for street food and crafts. The National Maritime Museum is very close, offering larger galleries of naval history and art – and some interesting insights into the naval origins of common phrases. Then there’s the Royal Observatory up the hill in Greenwich Park for views over London and the Prime Meridian line.
Alternatively, take a river boat upstream or downstream for views of the city from the water. Cafés and restaurants along the riverside, particularly near the pier or along King William Walk, give good spots for lunch or tea without straying far.
FAQ / practical tips
Are the paths wheelchair-friendly?
Many parts are accessible. Lifts allow access to most decks, accessible toilets are provided, and there are level or ramped approaches. But some cabins, certain narrow passageways and parts of the Main Deck are not accessible. Virtual access is offered for those spaces.
Is there accessible parking close to the entrance?
Yes. Blue Badge holders have limited parking bays nearby (such as Park Row). However, these are few and should be checked in advance. The nearest large secure car park is close by at the National Maritime Museum for weekends or holidays but may require reservation.
What public transport works best?
DLR to Cutty Sark (when station is open) is most direct but check for maintenance closures. Greenwich and Maze Hill rail stations are nearby. River boat via Greenwich Pier is scenic. Buses serve the area well.
Are there cafés or restaurants on site?
Yes. There is a café aboard Cutty Sark itself on the lower ground deck (for ticket-holders). Also many cafés, pubs and food stalls nearby in Greenwich town and by the river.
How long should I budget for a visit?
Allow about 1 to 1½ hours for the main ship and exhibits. If you’re adding in time for lunch, walking, shopping at Greenwich Market or visiting other nearby museums, budget 3-4 hours.
Are photo opportunities good?
Very much so. Great spots include the area beneath the ship (where you can walk under the hull), on the Main Deck, and the riverside views around Greenwich. Light in the morning or late afternoon tends to be softer.
Final practical tips
Book your tickets in advance online to guarantee entry, especially on busy days or during summer. Check for any temporary closures or maintenance updates.
If you have mobility needs or children, plan your route through the more accessible parts first. Leave time to wander: Greenwich’s charm is as much in the views, tea shops and winding streets as it is in the ship itself.
More London travel
Other London travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Why the bust of Ramesses II is a highlight of the British Museum.
- A first-time visitor’s guide to the Horniman Museum in London.
- Practical information for visiting the London Museum Docklands.
- How to make the most of your visit to HMS Belfast.
- A practical guide to visiting Eltham Palace.
