Cutty Sark

The Basics

Visitors can prepurchase an admission ticket and make their own way to the Cutty Sark, before climbing aboard to explore. Costumed characters from Cutty Sark’s past perform several times a day on the main deck.

Many half-day and full-day tours of Greenwich include a visit to the Cutty Sark, as well as other Royal Museums Greenwich venues, such as the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the Greenwich Royal Observatory. Passengers on boat cruises along the River Thames may catch a glimpse of the Cutty Sark’s masts from the water.

Things to Know Before you Go

• The Cutty Sark is a must for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and families.

• A café can be found on the vessel’s lower ground deck.

• Cutty Sark is wheelchair friendly with step-free access available via King William Walk and Greenwich Pier, and lifts providing access to all levels. Some parts of the main deck are not accessible.

How to Get There

Cutty Sark is permanently stationed at Greenwich Pier in South East London. To get here, ride the MBNA Thames Clipper from London Eye Pier (35 minutes), London Bridge City Pier (25 minutes), or Tower Pier (20 minutes). Trains from Central London to Greenwich take less than 10 minutes, while the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) from Central London to Cutty Sark DLR station takes just 20 minutes.

When to Get There

Peak hours typically fall between 1pm and 3pm on weekends, with July and August drawing the biggest crowds. The best time to visit is in June, when summer weather means you can still fully enjoy all the outdoor attractions of Greenwich, such as Greenwich Park and the waterfront, but without the huge crowds.

On Board the Cutty Sark

During its prime, the Cutty Sark was one of the fastest Victorian sea clippers to sail the seas. The ship would typically set sail from Britain and journey to China, returning with stores of tea. Visitors who step aboard the restored vessel today can take hold of the wheel on its main deck, gaze up at the copper hull, and see the cramped quarters where the captain and crew slept. You can also see interactive maps tracking shipping routes and illustrations.

How long should I spend at the Cutty Sark?

You should spend around 1.5 hours at the Cutty Sark to explore the decks and hull, as well as soak up views of London's skyline. If you’d like to enjoy some tea and cake in the hull, make sure to add some extra time to your visit, too.

Can you see the Cutty Sark without paying?

Yes, you can see the exterior of the 150-year-old Cutty Sark ship without paying, but you'll need to buy an admission ticket to go inside the ship and to see its hull, cabins, and deck. If you book afternoon tea in the hull, you're given access to the ship’s interior.

What is the best day to visit the Cutty Sark?

The best days to visit the Cutty Sark are Tuesday and Wednesday, outside of the British-school holidays in July and August. These days give you the best chance of exploring the ship without the massive crowds, especially if you aim to arrive in time for the ship's mid-morning opening.

Is the Cutty Sark accessible?

Nearly all the Cutty Sark is wheelchair-accessible as there are elevators to all levels of this historical ship. A few parts of the Main Deck aren’t accessible; however, there's virtual access to these, too. Keep in mind, because of the ship's small size, mobility scooters aren't allowed onboard the Cutty Sark.

Is the Cutty Sark worth it?

Yes, visiting the Cutty Sark is worth it. This award-winning Greenwich attraction traces the history of the clipper ship, which was the fastest of its time. You’ll explore a specially restored ship, including its deck, cabins, hull, and lookout points as if you were a crew member sailing to Shanghai in 1870.

What is so special about the Cutty Sark?

The Cutty Sark is so special because it was the fastest ship of its time when it made voyages during the 1800s, which were primarily to transport tea between China and the UK. Today, it's been impeccably renovated and is a must-visit for history buffs and families.

Ways to explore

Pre-purchase an admission ticket and make your way to the Cutty Sark to climb aboard and explore the restored ship. Costumed actors perform several times a day on the main deck, sharing stories from Cutty Sark’s past. Many half-day and full-day tours of Greenwich include visiting the ship and other Royal Museums Greenwich sites such as the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the Royal Observatory. Some travelers also stop at the Cutty Sark after a Westminster to Greenwich sightseeing cruise.

Accessibility

Cutty Sark is wheelchair accessible with accessible restrooms.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunglasses if it’s sunny, camera, portable charger

What to wear

If doing the Cutty Sark Rig Climb, wear closed-toe shoes and old clothing that you don’t mind getting stained.

Not allowed

E-scooters, bikes, smoking or vaping, selfie sticks

Amenities

Café, audio guide, restrooms

Address

Cutty Sark is located at Greenwich Pier in South East London. You can reach it via Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, bus, or DLR train. Many visitors arrive on sightseeing cruises that explore other attractions along the River Thames.

Driving

The drive time depends on where you start in London, although it’s often easier to take public transport if visiting the city; Greenwich is well connected to all areas by tube, boat, and bus. If arriving by car, there’s a secure car park at the National Maritime Museum for £12 a day.

Public transportation

The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) goes directly to Cutty Sark station. Buses that stop near Cutty Sark include routes #129, #177, #180, and #188.

Best times to visit

Come in the morning, close to opening time, to avoid afternoon crowds and have a more peaceful experience.

Best days to visit

Weekends tend to attract the biggest crowds, so plan a trip for Monday through Thursday to avoid the masses.

Best months to visit

June is a great month as the weather is warming up, but it doesn’t quite have the summer vacation crowds of July and August.

Special events

A fun annual festival is the Sea Shanty Festival, typically in November. It features traditional maritime music celebrations, such as folk performers, as well as workshops.