Tilbury

Tilbury

England

Explore the Thames Estuary's maritime heritage and historic docklands where industrial Victorian engineering meets modern waterfront culture.

💱 Currency British Pound Sterling (GBP)
🗣 Language English
🕐 Time Zone GMT (UTC+0) / BST (UTC+1)
☀️ Best Time to Visit September, March, April, July, and January offer the most cruise departures; April-May and September-October provide pleasant weather for exploring London and Northern Europe.
🚢 Typical Duration 14-17 nights
💰 Price Range $639.50–$21,990 per person
Port Type Departure & Port of Call
🚤 Tender Port No

Tilbury is London's primary cruise port, offering convenient access to the historic capital and serving as a major gateway for Northern European and transatlantic cruises.

Cruises that visit Tilbury

Build Your Day in Tilbury

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 8:00 PM
Usually about 12 hours ashore
🛳 Embarkation port — worth arriving early
Getting around:
Boom Battle Bar Lakeside Great atmosphere, friendly staff, good music, great beer.Aflo and Golding Bar · ★ 4.9 · 6k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Spring River The atmosphere/ service, food & drinks was very nice. Pub · ★ 4.2 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 AM
Diggerland Kent Reasonably priced and filled with fun activities and machinery to use. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM Sat
Las Iguanas - Lakeside Fabulous cocktails with a great atmosphere even when busy. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 3k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
St George's Shopping Centre Easy parking and accessible shops. Shopping mall · ★ 3.8 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Wat Tyler Centre Excellent, entertaining and informative staff, good activities for the kids Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9:30 AM
Grays Beach Riverside Park The water splash is great fun and keeps the children cool on hot days. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 2k
Three Daws Good cover bands, great sound quality, reasonable bar prices Pub · ★ 4.5 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Tilbury Fort Kids can run around and explore, then have a picnic on the grass. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Coalhouse Fort Park Lots of different routes to take, all nice! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Riverside Leisure Area 2 hrs free Friday to Saturday. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 2k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM
The Whitmore Arms Great atmosphere, really good food and fantastic IPA Pub · ★ 4.4 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
The Bull Pub & Restaurant · Grays Delicious platings, pleasant atmosphere and good service:) Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Rock Up Lakeside Great place to take kids, offers a broad challenge level and friendly staff. Rock climbing gym · ★ 4.4 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10:30 AM
The Ship The food was amazing the staff very attentive, the owners amazing. Pub · ★ 4.6 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Asda Tilbury Superstore A well stocked supermarket, reasonable prices, helpful staff. Supermarket · ★ 3.6 · 1k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 AM
London International Cruise Terminal (LICT) The few available facilities do include a coffee shop. Cruise terminal · ★ 4.3 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM
Restaurant Miorita Mediterranean Grays Food delicious, wine great , service excellent . Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
NH44 (Cafe, Bar and Restaurant) The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Dock Cafe Best food, service, and not expenceive Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 AM
Restaurant Zani The food was the best we have had in a long time! Restaurant · ★ 4.1 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 12 PM
Port of Tilbury London Limited You've got to visit the cafe.. staff are fantastic 😍 Port · ★ 4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM
New Tavern Fort The little museum is a must and the staff know their stuff Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
The Kent Cocktail Bar & Lounge A brilliant bar, excellent staff, premium cocktails and lots of them!! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM
Tilbury Docks The Quay can be 15mins to hour and a half. attraction · ★ 4 · 0k
Three Pillars Great selection of beers, ciders and gin. Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM
Page Lounge Lovely venue, drinks are reasonably priced and good music. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 4 PM
Blake's Great music, lighting is looking unreal, Ladies toilet is very aesthetic Bar · ★ 4.2 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9:30 PM Fri
Mr JUNKIES Literally flawless food and excellent customer service. Fried Chicken · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Tilbury Family Hub So much activities. Children's amusement center · ★ 4.6 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8:30 AM
Tesco Express All households goods available at affordable prices Supermarket · ★ 3.4 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 6 AM
Tilbury Seakings Food was served perfectly and tasted great. Seafood · ★ 4.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 11 AM
Tilbury Town Quiet and safe Transit station · ★ 3.9 · 0k
Tilbury Cash And Carry A place to shop Grocery store · ★ 4.2 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 8 AM
Premier Good prices and variety, perfect for you basic needs Convenience store · ★ 3.9 · 0k
Tilbury Terminal I enjoyed my trip over the Thames and the staff were very helpful. Ferry terminal · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Costcutter Very good selection of goods. Convenience store · ★ 3.9 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 7 AM
Lady Ombre Really recommend Beauty salon · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10:30 AM
Card Crazy Friendly and helpful staff. Greeting card shop · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Jmkcreations Good quality Worth every penny. Clothing store · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Pound Shop So much good stuff and good price Discount store · ★ 4.7 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 9 AM
Paula's 758 Caribbean spoon Tasty dinner, lovely staff, clean environment. Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 10 AM
Dickinn's Bar Very gd pub good prices Pub · ★ 4.5 · 0k 🕐 Closed · Opens 2 PM
Coalhouse Fort Riverside Scenic Viewpoint Great place to relax Scenic spot · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Tilbury Fort Public Path Bridge Amazing spot to go with a partner!!! Park · ★ 5 · 0k 🕐 Closes soon · 3 AM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Tilbury is an embarkation port. Many cruises start or end here — it's worth arriving a day early or extending your stay to explore beyond a single port day.

Next Departures from Tilbury

About Tilbury

Tilbury has established itself as a major embarkation hub on England's east coast, serving as both a departure point and port of call for cruise travelers exploring Northern Europe. Four respected cruise lines—Viking Ocean Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line—operate from this busy terminal, offering approximately 60 upcoming sailings. With 14-night itineraries dominating the schedule, Tilbury serves as the perfect launching point for extended voyages to iconic destinations like Bergen, Barcelona, and Lisbon, with peak sailing seasons in January, March, April, July, and September.

When Tilbury appears on your itinerary as a port of call, you'll find yourself within easy reach of London's world-class attractions and rich history. The port's convenient location makes it an ideal spot to explore England's capital or venture into the surrounding countryside before or after your cruise. Whether you're embarking on an adventure or making a brief stop, Tilbury offers straightforward access to some of Northern Europe's most rewarding cruise experiences.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Historic Thames and Tower Bridge

Explore London's iconic Thames riverfront and the magnificent Tower Bridge, just a short journey from Tilbury. Walk across this Gothic Revival masterpiece for panoramic views of the city skyline, then visit the Tower of London to discover centuries of royal history and the Crown Jewels. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers an unforgettable glimpse into Britain's architectural grandeur.

2

Traditional British Fish and Chips

Indulge in authentic fish and chips at a local Tilbury chippy, where crispy battered cod or haddock pairs perfectly with thick-cut chips and mushy peas. This quintessential British comfort food has been perfected over generations, served with tangy malt vinegar and tartar sauce. It's a must-try culinary experience that captures the essence of English seaside tradition.

3

Essex Countryside and Marshlands

Discover the serene natural beauty of Essex's wetlands and marshes surrounding Tilbury, home to diverse birdlife and peaceful walking trails. These protected landscapes offer a tranquil escape from urban bustle, perfect for nature lovers seeking to observe migratory species and native flora. The picturesque countryside provides authentic English pastoral charm just minutes from the port.

4

Lakeside Shopping and Markets

Browse the vibrant Tilbury Lakeside shopping center, featuring over 90 international brands and local retailers in a modern waterfront setting. The complex offers everything from fashion and electronics to souvenirs and British specialty goods. With restaurants and cafés throughout, it's an ideal spot to pick up gifts while enjoying contemporary shopping in a scenic riverside location.

5

Tilbury Fort's Maritime Heritage

Visit the impressive 17th-century Tilbury Fort, a star-shaped fortress that once defended London from invasion and now showcases England's maritime military history. Explore the well-preserved bastions, barracks, and cannons while learning about the soldiers who guarded this strategic Thames position. This English Heritage site offers fascinating insights into Britain's naval past and architectural engineering.

Cruise Lines at Tilbury

Cruises Departing From Tilbury

Cruises Visiting Tilbury

Ship Schedule at Tilbury

Tilbury Location

Other Cruise Ports in England

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities does Tilbury port offer for cruises?

Tilbury provides official port facilities with cruise handling and cargo services, plus riverfront access.

How far is Tilbury from London landmarks?

Tilbury lies about 22 nautical miles downstream from Tower Bridge, London.

What itineraries are common from Tilbury?

Tilbury serves Baltic and Northern European cruise itineraries.

Is Tilbury easy to access by transportation?

Tilbury is easily reachable via river and road networks with nearby rail connections.