Thames Barrier Information Centre

Visit the Thames Barrier Information Centre to find out about the past, present and future of this imposing structure and its vital function in preventing flooding in London.

What is the Thames Barrier?

Opened by the Queen in 1984, the Thames Barrier cost £500 million to build and spans 520m (1,706ft) across the river Thames at Woolwich Reach, in south-east London.

The Thames Barrier is composed of 10 gates, which are raised monthly for testing. These gates help to regulate the flow of water in the Thames, which is a tidal river all the way to Teddington Lock in south-west London. The barrier stops tidal surges from flooding large parts of London, as well as during periods of high flow in Teddington Weir.

Where can I learn more about the Thames Barrier?

Find out all you need to know about the barrier at the Thames Barrier Information Centre. This venue hosts an exhibition, a working scale model and a video with information about the barrier’s history, future and present-day functions.

Can I visit the Thames Barrier?

Although you cannot visit the Thames Barrier itself, there are a number of ways to see the structure:

• Visit the Thames Barrier Information Centre, which also features riverside walkways, a children’s play area and the Thames Barrier Café.
• Spot the Thames Barrier from the river on a boat tour or speedboat ride, including trips operated by ThamesJet, Thames Rib Experience, Thames River Services and Thames Rockets.
• Join a regular group tour of the Thames Barrier.
• View the unique structure from Thames Barrier Park, a 7-hectare (17 acres) park that features a sunken garden, fountains, children’s playground and picnic areas.

How do I get to the Thames Barrier?

The closest stations to the Thames Barrier Information Centre on the south side of the river are Woolwich Dockyard and Charlton. Both stations are accessible via direct Southeastern services from London Bridge, and are a short bus ride (around 12-15 minutes) plus a short walk (around 10 minutes) from the visitors’ centre.

Thames Barrier Park is next to Pontoon Dock DLR station on the north bank of the Thames. DLR services connect to a number of London Tube stations, including Bank.