Ps Tattershall Castle

PS Tattershall Castle Visiting Hours, Tickets, and London Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

PS Tattershall Castle is an iconic paddle steamer permanently moored on the River Thames, offering a rare combination of British maritime history, striking views, and vibrant hospitality. Built in 1934 for the Humber Ferry Service, this vessel now serves as a floating pub and restaurant, welcoming tourists and Londoners to experience its unique heritage and contemporary atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff, culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable riverside experience, PS Tattershall Castle is a must-visit London historical site (Official PS Tattershall Castle Website, Exploring London, National Historic Ships).

Origins and Construction
Service on the Humber Ferry Route
Wartime Contributions
Postwar Years and Decline of Ferry Service
Relocation to London and New Roles
Visiting the PS Tattershall Castle Today
Restoration and Preservation Efforts
Sister Ships and Comparative Legacy
Practical Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Origins and Construction

PS Tattershall Castle was built by William Gray & Company in 1934, commissioned by the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER) to serve as a passenger and vehicle ferry across the Humber estuary. With a length of approximately 63 meters (207 feet), she was designed for robust daily service and could carry over 1,000 passengers. The vessel featured a steel hull and was powered by steam-driven paddle wheels, making her ideal for the challenging tidal conditions of the Humber (kids.kiddle.co).

Service on the Humber Ferry Route

From her launch, PS Tattershall Castle operated the critical route between Kingston upon Hull and New Holland, providing a vital link for communities, commuters, and goods. Alongside her sister ships, PS Wingfield Castle and later PS Lincoln Castle, she made up to eight crossings per day, transporting passengers, vehicles, and livestock, and serving as an essential part of the region’s transport infrastructure (kids.kiddle.co).

Wartime Contributions

During World War II, the paddle steamer was requisitioned for military use. Notably, she was among the first British civilian vessels equipped with radar, improving navigation in the Humber’s notoriously foggy conditions. Her wartime roles included deploying barrage balloons and transporting soldiers and supplies, further cementing her place in Britain’s maritime legacy.

Postwar Years and Decline of Ferry Service

After the war, PS Tattershall Castle returned to civilian service under British Rail’s Sealink brand. The opening of the Humber Bridge in 1981 rendered the ferry service obsolete, and the vessel was retired in 1973 due to high maintenance costs (kids.kiddle.co).

Relocation to London and New Roles

In 1976, PS Tattershall Castle was towed to London and moored on the Victoria Embankment. Initially serving as a floating art gallery, she was later transformed into a floating pub and restaurant, opening to the public in 1982. Her central location offers panoramic views of the Thames, the London Eye, and the Southbank, making her a unique fixture of London’s riverscape (Londonist).

Visiting the PS Tattershall Castle Today

Location and Directions

The vessel is moored at SW1A 2HR, Victoria Embankment, directly opposite the London Eye and close to Embankment and Charing Cross stations. The location is accessible via multiple Underground lines (District, Circle, Bakerloo, Northern) and mainline rail services.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

General Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM (may vary for special events or seasonally)
Entry: Free for casual visits; charges apply for dining, drinks, and ticketed events
Events: Tickets for special occasions such as New Year’s Eve or private functions should be purchased in advance via the official website.

Accessibility

Step-free entrance and accessible toilets on the main deck
Some upper decks may have limited accessibility due to the ship’s historic design
Visitors with specific needs should contact the venue in advance for assistance (thetattershallcastle.co.uk)

Services and Events

Classic British pub fare and a wide selection of drinks
Live music nights, DJ sets, comedy shows, and themed parties
Private hire for corporate events, weddings, and parties
Family-friendly during daytime; some events are adults-only

Nearby Attractions

London Eye
Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament
Southbank Centre
Golden Jubilee Bridges (for access from the South Bank)

Restoration and Preservation Efforts

A major £1.5 million refit in 2015 preserved the ship’s historic character while upgrading safety and comfort features. Ongoing maintenance ensures that PS Tattershall Castle remains a vibrant part of London’s cultural landscape (kids.kiddle.co).

Sister Ships and Comparative Legacy

PS Wingfield Castle

Launched in 1934, the PS Wingfield Castle is preserved as a museum ship at Hartlepool Maritime Experience. She offers visitors an immersive look at Humber ferry history and early 20th-century paddle steamers (National Historic Ships).

Location: Hartlepool Maritime Experience, northeast England
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Tickets: Available at the venue or online

PS Lincoln Castle

Launched in 1940, the PS Lincoln Castle served the same route but was scrapped in 2010 after preservation efforts proved unsustainable (Wikipedia).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Check opening hours and event schedules on the official website before visiting.
Book early for special events, especially New Year’s Eve.
Dress code: Casual is fine for daytime; formal attire may be required for ticketed events.
Photography: Excellent vantage points for London landmarks, especially at sunset.
Families: Children welcome during the day; some events may be 18+.
Pets: Only assistance dogs permitted.
No parking on site: Use public transport for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for PS Tattershall Castle?
A: Typically open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM; check the official website for variations.

Q: Is entry free?
A: Yes, general admission is free; tickets are needed for some events or private hires.

Q: Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?
A: The main entrance and toilets are accessible, though upper decks have limitations.

Q: Can I book a guided tour?
A: No regular tours, but private tours can sometimes be arranged; staff often share historical insights.

Q: Are children allowed?
A: Yes, during daytime hours.

Conclusion

PS Tattershall Castle represents a living connection to Britain’s maritime and social history. From her early days as a vital Humber ferry, through wartime contributions, to her current role as a beloved floating venue, she is a symbol of resilience and innovation. Visitors can enjoy not only the historic setting and engineering marvels of a 1934 paddle steamer, but also excellent food, drinks, and regular entertainment, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Thames and London’s skyline. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique piece of British heritage.

For the latest updates, tickets, and event information, visit the official website, and download the Audiala app for curated guides to London’s most fascinating historical attractions.