Explore Attractions with The London Pass: The Precious Historic Sailing Ship 'Cutty Sark'

On the banks of the River Thames, on land at Greenwich Harbour, rests the world's oldest and fastest sailing ship, a heritage of its era and the only surviving tea clipper in the world. It is also the London attraction that The London Pass wants to take you to visit today—the precious historic sailing ship 'Cutty Sark'.

Measuring 64.7 meters in length and designed as a British three-masted composite clipper, the Cutty Sark was launched in 1869 in Dumbarton. With a speed of 17 knots, she became one of the fastest ships at sea in the 1870s. This impressive speed made her the most profitable merchant ship, and thus she took on the mission of a tea clipper, transporting tea—then the most popular commodity—from China to Victorian Britain.

In 1872, during a tea race, the Cutty Sark suffered a broken rudder in the Indian Ocean. Despite losing the race, she remained a legend in maritime trade. Afterwards, she also served as a cargo carrier and training ship for the British Royal Navy. During her years as a British merchant ship, she visited 16 different countries, covering a distance equivalent to two and a half round trips between the Earth and the Moon.

Today, the Cutty Sark retains 90% of her original appearance and is open to the public as a legendary museum. To reduce pressure on the hull's keel and preserve her unique shape, she has been lifted entirely off the ground.

During the visit, visitors can follow in the footsteps of sailors, encounter the Cutty Sark's past through interactive exhibits, listen to the captain's tales of life at sea during the age of sail, enjoy panoramic views of the Thames, and walk beneath the gleaming hull to experience this precious history.

Showcasing the exquisite design of maritime experts, the Cutty Sark is a survivor of the sea, war, fire, and the passage of time. She now proudly rests at Greenwich, telling the world adventurous stories spanning 150 years, waiting for everyone to appreciate her legendary life.

Cutty Sark address: King William Walk, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

Visiting hours: 10am – 5pm daily

Ticket: £15, free admission with The London Pass

The Cutty Sark is one of the four attractions of Royal Museums Greenwich. After your visit, don’t forget to explore the nearby Royal Observatory Greenwich (free with The London Pass), the National Maritime Museum, and the Queen's House art gallery!