Cutty Sark is a restored 19th-century tea clipper displayed as a museum ship in Greenwich, beside the River Thames. Built in 1869, it carried tea from China and later wool from Australia. Walk across the decks, explore the crew’s quarters and cargo hold, and see exhibits about the ship and life at sea. Interactive activities, including dressing up as a crew member, add interest for children. The ship’s position in dry dock also lets you view its hull from below, with Greenwich’s shops, market and riverside walks nearby.
A clipper built for the tea trade
Cutty Sark was built in Scotland in 1869 for the Jock Willis Shipping Line. It was designed to carry tea from China to Britain quickly, and became one of the fastest clippers of its era. As steamships took over, the ship was used to transport wool from Australia.
Today, the vessel is preserved in dry dock in Greenwich as a museum. Its history connects the ship’s working life with the wider story of Britain’s maritime trade. Exhibits and audiovisual presentations help explain its voyages and the work carried out by the people aboard.
Exploring the ship
Visitors can move between the decks, crew quarters and cargo hold to see different parts of life at sea. The tight living spaces give a sense of the conditions aboard, while interactive exhibits invite families to take part. Children can dress up as crew members, and activities bring the ship’s cargo journeys to life.
Look up at the masts and rigging from the deck, then walk beneath the hull in the dry dock. The ship’s position also gives you views from inside and outside the vessel. A café is located below the hull, and there is a gift shop on site.
FAQ
Where is Cutty Sark?
The ship is at King William Walk in Greenwich, London, near the River Thames.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 90 minutes to explore the ship without rushing.
Is Cutty Sark suitable for children?
Yes. Children can explore interactive exhibits and dress up as crew members.
Can you walk beneath the ship?
Yes. Cutty Sark is displayed in dry dock, so visitors can view its hull from below.
