About the Port of London and the River Thames

The Port of London and the River Thames is managed by the Port of London Authority (PLA) who works to ensure navigational safety along the tidal Thames, promoting its use and safeguarding its unique marine environment. The PLA manages 95 miles of the river and the Eastuary, from Teddington to the North Sea, the Port of London is the UK’s second biggest port handling some 50 million tonnes of cargo each year, employing more than 40,000 people and contributing over £3 billion to the economy annually.

The River Thames is the busiest inland waterway, handling over 2 million tonnes of goods and materials. There is a growing commuter and tourist industry on the River Thames used by over six million people every year. The River Thames is also the crucible of British Rowing talent hosts the annual University Boat Race and placed host to the principle celebration for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

To find out more about the Port and the Port of London Authority, please click here.