Thames Barrier Park & Royal Docks – London Day Trip
I spotted Thames Barrier Park while reading a guidebook of parks in London. The guidebook sold me, so I had to visit. I chose a sunny, blue-sky day to make my move and head from home in Westminster in central London to the Thames Barrier Park.
What is Thames Barrier Park in London?
Thames Barrier Park is a 7-hectare park on the north bank of the River Thames. It is in the London Borough of Newham, near Pontoon Dock DLR station. The park is named after the Thames Flood Barrier, which is visible from the public open space.
What is the Thames Barrier?
Since Roman times, flooding has been a problem for the city; thus, a solution was required to protect the city from high tides. The solution was to create what we now know as the Thames Barrier.
It is a retractable system designed to prevent the city’s floodplain from being flooded by abnormally high tides and storm surges. The Barrier has been fully operational since 1982. The Environment Agency closes it during predicted high tides and storm surges, thus protecting the city.
Getting To Thames Barrier Park & Royal Docks
My cross-London visit started with a tube ride from Lancaster Gate station, and I navigated the underground to Embankment station. I had a quick mooch here, then Google Maps suggested the water taxi from Westminster Bridge to get near where I planned to be. This trip involved crossing the river using the London Cable Car and then a walk through the Royal Docks.
Exploring Thames Barrier Park in London
On arrival, the entry to the parkland was easy to find. It is a public space, so it is free to enter. Climbing a few steps from the little car park at the park brought me out onto a balcony overlooking the park. The views from here were splendid. You could see the Thames Barrier and the landscaping from above.
I then descended into the park to have a proper look around and enjoy seeing the centrepiece from many angles. The park is interestingly landscaped to frame views of the Thames Barrier with greenery. Plants in the gardens included shrubs like lavender, various flower types, and hedgerows. The scent of the park is distinct and pleasant, making it a haven for pollinators.
Walking up and then down the designated walkways brought out many glorious views. Towards the river end of the park, there is a grass verge that slopes up to the riverside promenade.
The riverside area had benches, ideal for me to sit and watch the world go by with a unique view. There were Egyptian geese below on a shingle beach on the Thames, and nobody else for company.
On the top level is a walkway overlooking the park, and it is a brilliant spot for photographers to capture the scenery. This is well worth walking around and exploring in the gardens.
DLR back to Central London
After enjoying this quiet and beautiful space in the capital, it was time to head back home. This was simple compared to the adventurous options on the way. Catching the DLR from Pontoon Dock into Central London, then hopping on the tube home.
Is Thames Barrier Park Worth Visiting?
This adventure was a fantastic day out in London, and I got to see lots of the key sights and the lesser-known Barrier Park. I used only public transport and walked. The views were well worth the journey. As a bonus, the park is dog-friendly, so it’s an ideal area for dog walks.