Thames Barrier
The Thames Barrier is the world's largest movable flood barrier which spans 520 metres (a third of a mile) across the Thames at Woolwich Reach. It protects Britain's capital city from tidal surges which occur during or immediately after severe meteorological conditions.
The Visitors Centre has spectacular views of the Barrier, together with working scale models and audio-visual displays and multimedia presentations detailing the construction of the Barrier and how it works.
The gates are raised every month for a 2½ hour test period at low tide and annually for a full day to test the effects of high tide.
Monday to Friday from 10am until 5pm.
Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am until 5.30pm.
closed during December and January.
Location
Thames Barrier
1 Unity Way
Woolwich
SE18
Telephone
+44 (0)20 8305 4188
Getting There
There are direct boat services from Westminster Pier (via Canary Wharf) and Greenwich Pier, or you can take a train to Charlton mainline station and the centre is a 15 minute walk.
Nearest Tube / Rail Station
Silvertown
Bus Routes
177, 180
Access
Wheelchair access and disabled toilet facilities.