Climbing Experience on the Cutty Sark Rig

Experience life at sea and climb the rigging of one of London's true icons

Climb the famous masts of the Cutty Sark for a unique London adventure. Book your climb with Cutty Sark Rig Climb now.

For the first time since the ships arrived in Greenwich in 1954, visitors can climb the rigging of the Cutty Sark and get a feel for what it would be like to sail the historic ship.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled platform boarding time (as indicated on your ticket). You'll receive a brief safety briefing and learn more about what it was like to live and work aboard the Cutty Sark.

Remember, your ticket also includes general admission to Cutty Sark on the same day, so leave plenty of time to enjoy the ship before or after boarding!

The climb itself will depend on your individual speed. We recommend allowing up to an hour to fully enjoy the experience.



The climb

Going up:

Beginning with a briefing beneath the ship's beautiful hull, those brave enough to take on the challenge ascend from the main deck to the ship's ratlines (rope ladders).

From here, you can climb up to the rigging, just as hundreds of sailors did during the Cutty Sark's long and legendary career at sea. Once you reach the platform, take a deep breath and enjoy the view as you gaze upon a true London icon. Then it's time for one last challenge: Lower Topsail Yard! Hold on tight to the horizontal bar as you slide down the rope. Be brave, look up, and feel the adrenaline of life at sea.



Going down:

A controlled descent will take you from the lofty heights of the rigging back to the main deck. You can then join friends and family and continue your adventure on the Cutty Sark: your Rig Climb ticket includes free access to all areas of the ship. Explore the crew cabins, come face-to-face with the world's largest collection of Merchant Navy figureheads, take the helm, and enjoy a cup of coffee in the café beneath the ship's gleaming hull. Check out the top attractions and activities here.
Notes:
Attention: Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled time to go up to the platform.

The Cutty Sark Rig climbing experience is open to anyone 10 years of age or older. There is no upper age limit, as long as you are fit and healthy, and no climbing experience is required.

All children must be accompanied by a paying adult (18+) at all times and require parental consent to participate in the climb.

All participants must sign a liability waiver before entering the platform.

Participants must be at least 1.2m/3ft 9in tall (due to the gap in the ropes) and weigh less than 120kg.

Closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or non-loose boots, are required. Open-toe shoes, sandals, or high heels are not permitted.

The use of gloves is permitted and highly recommended. Gloves and shoes are not provided.

The harnesses used have a maximum waist width of 130 cm / 51.1 in and a maximum thigh width of 75 cm / 29.5 in.

We offer access for visitors who cannot physically climb the rigging. Please contact us ([email protected]) to discuss your needs.

The experience is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions (e.g., pregnancy or heart problems). You must not have any medical condition that could put your health and safety, or that of others, at risk.

Your ticket also includes general admission to the Cutty Sark on the same day.



Opening days: Friday to Sunday / Bank Holidays / Selected Mondays and Thursdays during school holidays)