London: Cutty Sark Rig Climb Ticket

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Climb the Cutty Sark's rigging with expert guidance and enjoy included entry to Cutty Sark museum in London.

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Cutty Sark Rig Climb Tickets

The Cutty Sark Rig Climb offers an extraordinary adventure 30 metres above the Thames, where you scale the rigging of the world's last surviving tea clipper ship. This 90-minute experience combines maritime history with an adrenaline-pumping climbing challenge, taking you high above Greenwich for spectacular panoramic views across London and the historic Royal Naval College.

Professional climbing instructors guide small groups through authentic rigging systems, following the same ropes that Victorian sailors navigated between 1869 and 1954. You'll don safety harnesses and climb rope ladders whilst learning about the physical demands faced by sailors crossing treacherous seas. The climb includes different routes depending on your experience level and confidence, suitable for ages 12 and above with a maximum weight of 120kg.

Located in Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site, this climbing experience provides outstanding perspectives of the capital's skyline, Canary Wharf's modern towers, and Greenwich's architectural heritage including the Royal Observatory where Greenwich Mean Time originates.

Highlights

  • Scale authentic rigging systems 30 metres above the Thames with professional instruction
  • Experience panoramic views across London's skyline and Greenwich's historic landmarks
  • Navigate the same rope ladders used by Victorian sailors during the ship's operational years
  • Learn about maritime history whilst following in the footsteps of tea clipper crews
  • Receive a commemorative certificate upon completing your climb
  • Small group experience with maximum 6-8 participants per session

Plan Your Visit to Cutty Sark Rig Climb

The complete rig climb experience takes approximately 90 minutes, including safety briefing and equipment fitting. Climbs operate in most weather conditions but may be cancelled during high winds or heavy rain for safety reasons. Weather conditions are carefully monitored with alternative dates offered when necessary.

Wear comfortable, close-fitting clothing and closed-toe shoes with good grip. Avoid loose clothing, jewellery, or anything that could catch on rigging. Personal cameras aren't permitted during the climb for safety reasons, but professional photos are taken by staff and available for purchase.

Greenwich is easily accessible by DLR, National Rail, or Thames Clipper boat services, with Cutty Sark station directly adjacent to the attraction. The climb typically sells out quickly during peak tourist seasons and school holidays, so advance booking is strongly recommended. Consider combining your rig climb with exploring Royal Observatory Greenwich planetarium shows or taking a Thames Clipper cruise to see the ship from the water's perspective.

Why you'll love it

  • Scale the rigging of the world's last surviving tea clipper ship
  • Reach 30 metres above the Thames for panoramic views across London
  • Spend 90 minutes on this guided maritime climbing challenge
  • Look out over the historic Royal Naval College and Greenwich from the top
  • Climb in small groups led by professional instructors on authentic rigging

What's included

  • Cutty Sark rig climb experience
  • Necessary climbing equipment
  • Qualified instructor
  • Admission to Cutty Sark

Good to know

Age suitability
Recommended for ages 10+
Opening hours
  • Mon-Sun10:00-17:00
Know before you go
  • Safety Requirements: All participants must complete a safety waiver and attend the mandatory briefing before climbing begins.

  • Weather Dependency: Climbs operate in most weather conditions but may be cancelled during high winds, heavy rain, or storms for participant safety.

  • Physical Demands: The climb requires reasonable fitness levels and involves ascending rope ladders and navigating rigging at height for extended periods.

  • Booking Flexibility: tickadoo offers flexible booking options, but peak times fill quickly so advance reservation is strongly recommended.

  • Group Size Limits: Climb sessions accommodate small groups only, typically 6-8 participants maximum, ensuring personalized attention from instructors.

  • Additional Attractions: Consider combining your rig climb with general Cutty Sark admission to explore the ship's lower decks and exhibition areas.

  • Transport Links: Greenwich is easily accessible by DLR, National Rail, or Thames Clipper boat services, with the Cutty Sark station directly adjacent to the attraction.

Visitor guidelines
  • Follow all instructions from trained staff during your climb

  • Stay within designated visitor areas aboard the ship

  • No food or drink allowed during the climb

  • Respect the Cutty Sark’s historic features and exhibits

Frequently asked

What is the minimum age for the Cutty Sark Rig Climb?

Participants must be at least 12 years old to take part in the rig climb experience.

How long does the entire rig climb experience last?

The complete experience takes approximately 90 minutes, including safety briefing, equipment fitting, and the climb itself.

What should I wear for the rig climb?

Wear comfortable, close-fitting clothing and closed-toe shoes with good grip. Avoid loose clothing, jewelry, or anything that could catch on rigging.

Are there weight or fitness restrictions for participants?

Participants should be reasonably fit and weigh no more than 120kg. Those with heart conditions, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions cannot participate.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?

Climbs may be postponed during high winds, rain, or other adverse weather conditions for safety reasons. Alternative dates will be offered through tickadoo.

Can I bring a camera during the climb?

Personal cameras and phones are not permitted during the climb for safety reasons. Professional photos are taken by staff and available for purchase.

Is the rig climb suitable for people with fear of heights?

The climb reaches 30 meters high and may not be suitable for those with severe acrophobia. However, professional instructors provide excellent support and encouragement.

How far in advance should I book my rig climb?

Booking through tickadoo well in advance is recommended, especially during summer months and school holidays when demand is highest.

Where you'll be

King William Walk

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