Thames Footpath 2 - Thames Barrier to Tower Bridge

This is the second stage of our Thames Footpath route. You aren't committed to doing every stage and don't have to have completed the first stage - just come along if it appeals! For this stage toilet facilities and drink options are limited - you have been warned!We meet at 10am at Charlton station. There are regular trains from London Bridge and it is still in the Oyster zone. The walk down to the Thames barrier is c1 mile - which is included in the walk mileage. From the Thames Barrier we obviously follow the Thames - on the south side! There aren't that many scenic highlights - we somewhat bizarrely pass a golf driving range and then behind the iconic O2 Arena. Fun fact: it has the second-highest seating capacity of any indoor venue in the United Kingdom, behind the Manchester Arena. It's BIG. Lunch will be at beautiful Greenwich after c5 miles (including getting to the start from Charlton). There are a wide range of food options in Greenwich for people to choose from. In the afternoon we follow our path to Tower Bridge passing by a number of wharfs and with Canary Wharf in our sights over the other side of the river. We walk through lots of historical parts of London, including Deptford where, bizarrely there is a statue of Tsar Peter the Great (ruled 1682 to 1721) Apparently Peter visited London, incognito, in 1698 to learn about ship building. For three months he worked at the Deptford Dockyards by day, and held drunken parties by night (allegedly) We finish at Tower Bridge - there are then a range of options for onward journeys - London Bridge is a 10 minute walk away with tube and national rail options. Alternatively you can cross the river for Tower Hill tube to pick up the District and Circle lines.