Woolwich Ferry
London's only free vehicle ferry — operating across the Thames between North Woolwich and Woolwich since 1889, now run by Transport for London with two hybrid-electric vessels.
The service
The Woolwich Free Ferry has crossed the Thames continuously since 25 March 1889. The northern terminal is at Pier Road, North Woolwich (DLR: King George V); the southern terminal sits beside Woolwich Arsenal station (Elizabeth line / National Rail / DLR). Both terminals are step-free and bus stops are immediately adjacent.
Vessels
Ben Woollacott and Dame Vera Lynn entered service in 2018 — diesel-electric hybrids built by Remontowa in Gdańsk, each carrying up to 210 passengers, 4 lorries and 6 cars. They use Voith Schneider propellers and an azimuthing thruster for fast turnarounds.
Cost
Free for everybody — pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycles, cars, vans and HGVs up to local highway limits. No ticket, no Oyster, no booking.
Connections
North terminal: King George V DLR + bus 474. South terminal: Woolwich Arsenal Elizabeth line / DLR / Southeastern + buses 53, 96, 99, 161, 177, 178, 180, 244, 291, 380, 386, 422, 469, 472.
FAQs
Is the Woolwich Ferry free?
Yes — the Woolwich Ferry is completely free for both pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles. It is funded by Transport for London as part of the local highway network.
What are the Woolwich Ferry hours?
The ferry runs Monday–Friday roughly 06:00–20:00, Saturday 06:30–20:00 and Sunday 11:30–19:30. Sailings every 10–15 minutes during the day.
Where does the Woolwich Ferry go?
It crosses the Thames between North Woolwich (on the A117) and Woolwich (on the A205 / Pier Road), a 5-minute crossing.
What are the Woolwich Ferry boats called?
The two current vessels — both diesel-electric hybrids built in Poland in 2018 — are Ben Woollacott and Dame Vera Lynn. They replaced the older 1963 vessels John Burns, James Newman and Ernest Bevin.