Thames Barrier Information and Learning Centre

A modern engineering wonder, the Thames flood defence barrage was constructed to reduce the risk of flooding in central London due to seasonal high tides on the tidal section of the River Thames. Due to global warming, the average height of the tides is rising at the rate of a little under a metre every 100 years.

Since its completion in 1984, the giant shiny metal aerofoil-shaped structures which house the gate mechanisms have become a famous London landmark - as instantly recognisable as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace or the London Eye.

How does it work?

The innovative design of the barrage involves ten 'half-cylinder' shaped horizontal rotating gates. When closed, the gates rotate to present the 'filled' half of the giant cylinder to the tide: when open, the gates rotate until these sections are underwater with the 'flat' side of the half-cylinder shape forming the river bed.

The entire barrier is about 520 metres across with the four main openings each offering a clear span of 61 metres. Each of the four main gates are hollow, built of steel plate, 20 metres in diameter and over 3500 tonnes in weight.

A visitor centre including a Learning & Information Centre (open every day, admission: £2 adults, £1.50 senior citizens and students, £1 children aged 16 and under) and cafe is located adjacent to the barrage. The Thames Barrier is just one part of London's Thames flood defences - others include the Barking, Dartford Creek, and Fobbing Horde barriers.

View attraction map »

Back to list »