Tilbury, England

Most passengers use Tilbury as a gateway to London's iconic attractions.

Within an hour's train ride, you can visit the historic Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels or explore the vast collection at the British Museum.

Other quintessential London sights include the Palace of Westminster and the iconic Big Ben clock tower.

For those wishing to stay local, Tilbury Fort, an impressive 17th-century artillery fort managed by English Heritage, is located right next to the port and offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's military history.

The most popular destination from Tilbury is undoubtedly London, located about 25 miles (40 km) to the west. A train journey of around 40 minutes brings you into the heart of the city, making its world-famous landmarks easily accessible for a day trip.

For a different historical perspective, the city of Canterbury, approximately 45 miles (72 km) away, is reachable by car or a combination of train services. It is famous for its stunning cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Closer to London, the historic maritime area of Greenwich offers attractions like the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark, and can be reached as part of your journey into the capital.

The London Cruise Terminal is located at the Port of Tilbury, which is a major commercial and container port on the River Thames.

It is situated about one mile from the small center of Tilbury town and approximately 25 miles east of central London.

There are very few amenities within walking distance of the terminal, so transportation is necessary to reach any shops, restaurants, or the local train station.

Cruise ships dock directly at the quay, so tendering is not required for passengers.

The official currency is the British Pound Sterling (£, GBP).

While some major retailers in central London might accept Euros or US Dollars, the exchange rates are typically unfavorable. It is highly recommended to use Pounds for all transactions.

ATMs are widely available, including at the cruise terminal and throughout London, offering the best exchange rates.

Credit and debit cards, especially those with contactless features, are accepted almost everywhere.

Tilbury and London are generally considered safe for tourists, but it is wise to take standard precautions.

In crowded areas of London, such as on the Tube or at popular attractions, be vigilant against pickpocketing and keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

It is safe to explore independently, and there are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid during the day.

As in any large city, it is advisable to stick to well-lit and populated areas if you are walking around at night.

The cruise season in England typically runs from spring through autumn.

Summer weather (June to August) is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (60°F to 77°F).

However, the weather is famously changeable, and rain showers can occur at any time of the year with little warning. Spring and autumn are cooler, with more frequent rainfall.

It is essential to pack in layers, including a sweater or light jacket and, most importantly, a waterproof jacket or an umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring.

The primary way to reach London is by train.

A short taxi or shuttle bus ride is required to get from the cruise terminal to Tilbury Town railway station.

From there, c2c train services provide a direct and frequent connection to Fenchurch Street station in London, with a journey time of approximately 40 minutes.

Taxis are available but can be very expensive for the journey into central London. Once in London, the public transportation network, including the Underground (Tube) and buses, is extensive and efficient for getting around.

Shopping opportunities in Tilbury itself are very limited. The best options require travel away from the port.

For a comprehensive shopping experience, the nearby Lakeside Shopping Centre is a large indoor mall that can be reached by a 15-20 minute taxi ride.

Most cruise visitors, however, head into London for its world-renowned shopping districts like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and the luxury boutiques of Bond Street.

Look for classic British souvenirs such as tea, biscuits, and memorabilia from London's famous museums. Prices in shops are fixed and not open to negotiation.