When most travellers picture a cruise from England, they think of Southampton. But there’s another option that’s a lot closer to central London, and plenty of first-timers overlook it. Tilbury sits on the north bank of the Thames in Essex, roughly 25 miles east of the City, and it’s become a popular starting point for sailings to Northern Europe and beyond.
This guide is for anyone weighing up cruises from Tilbury and wondering what to expect from the port, how to get there and how to make the most of the day before you sail. It covers the practical details that make the day of departure far smoother.
First impressions of the port
Let’s be upfront: Tilbury isn’t a glamorous seaside town. It’s a working port, and a big one, with cranes and container stacks along the river. But the passenger terminal is a pleasant surprise. The London International Cruise Terminal is housed in a listed 1930s building on the riverside, and it has far more character than most modern terminals.
It’s steeped in history, too. This is where HMT Empire Windrush docked in 1948, bringing hundreds of passengers from the Caribbean to start new lives in Britain. There’s a sense of occasion to boarding here that you just don’t get in a newer facility.
Getting there
This is where Tilbury really scores.
By train, c2c services run from London Fenchurch Street to Tilbury Town in around 35 to 40 minutes. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to the terminal. Fenchurch Street is close to Tower Hill, so it’s easy to reach from most of central London.
By car, the port is just off the A13 and close to the M25, so it’s straightforward from most directions. Parking is available near the terminal, but it’s worth booking ahead in summer.
If you’re flying in from overseas, London City Airport is the closest, though Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted are all manageable with a transfer. Give yourself plenty of time, especially if you’ll be crossing London at rush hour.
And if you’re staying in Kent, there’s a small passenger ferry across the Thames between Gravesend and Tilbury. It’s a fun way to arrive, although you’ll want to check the timetable and how much luggage you can bring.
Where to stay the night before
Most travellers coming from abroad spend a night or two in London before sailing. It’s a sensible approach, because it gives you a buffer if your flight is delayed.
Staying near Fenchurch Street or Tower Hill is the easiest option, putting you a short walk from your train. You’ll also be right beside the Tower of London, which makes for a great last-minute sightseeing stop. If you’d rather be closer to the port, there are hotels around Thurrock and Lakeside, which tend to be cheaper and quieter than central London.
What to see nearby
If you’ve got a spare few hours, don’t overlook what’s right on the doorstep.
Tilbury Fort is the big one. It’s a remarkably well preserved bastioned fort run by English Heritage, and it’s only a short walk from the cruise terminal. The fort dates back to the seventeenth century, and there’s plenty to explore, from its magazines to ramparts with views across the river.
Coalhouse Fort, a little further east at East Tilbury, is a Victorian fortification with riverside walks and wide estuary views.
Across the river, Gravesend has a pleasant riverside, a few good pubs and a statue of Pocahontas, who died and was buried in the town in 1617.
Where to eat
Food options immediately around the port are limited, so plan ahead. If you’re coming from London, it’s worth eating well before you leave. The streets around Fenchurch Street and Leadenhall Market have everything from quick bites to proper sit-down lunches.
If you’re driving, the Lakeside area has plenty of chain restaurants. For something more local, look for a traditional pub in one of the nearby villages. Several have decent menus and beer gardens.
Tips worth knowing
Arrive early, but not too early. Check your boarding window and plan to arrive during it. Turning up hours ahead just means waiting around.
Pack a day bag. Your main luggage might not reach your cabin until later in the afternoon, so keep medication, documents, a change of clothes and anything valuable with you.
Bring layers. The Thames estuary can be breezy even in summer, and sailaway on deck is not the time to be shivering.
Stay on deck as you leave. The trip down the Thames towards the North Sea is a highlight in itself, passing marshes, old forts and busy shipping lanes.
Is Tilbury a good choice?
For travellers who want a smooth start to their trip, it’s a strong choice. It’s one of the closest major cruise ports to central London, easy to reach by public transport and full of more history than you’d expect. It may not be the prettiest place you’ll visit, but as a gateway to Northern Europe, it does its job well, and the journey downriver is a fine way to begin.
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
