Can you imagine the Archbishop of Canterbury crossing the Thames in a horse-drawn ferry? That’s exactly what happened at Lambeth Pier, right here on the south bank of the river. This pier was not just a way to get across the water, it was a vital link between Lambeth Palace and Westminster Palace, where power and authority resided. For hundreds of years, the Archbishop, the head of the Church of England, relied on this ferry to reach Westminster. This was a time when bridges were few and far between, and crossing the Thames required a little more effort than simply stepping onto a modern bridge.
The pier dates back to Roman times, long before the ferry took over. Over the centuries, it witnessed great events and served as a bustling hub of activity. In 1633, the ferry carrying Oliver Cromwell’s coach sank. Mary of Modena, wife of King James II, used this very pier to flee to France during the Glorious Revolution. Quite a dramatic escape!
But the ferry service eventually gave way to more modern means of transport. In the 19th century, steamboats made regular stops at Lambeth Pier, bringing tourists and travelers alike to experience the beauty of the Thames. Today, it’s still used by Thames Cruises, offering scenic rides and cruises. Imagine all the stories these piers have seen, from the grandeur of the Archbishop’s journey to the excitement of the first steamboats.
Lambeth Pier is a living testament to the history of London. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, a reminder of the bustling life that once characterized the banks of the Thames. It’s a place to imagine the ferry crossing, the steamboats chugging by, and the powerful figures who once travelled through these very waters. So take a moment to imagine what life must have been like, right here on the banks of the Thames, at Lambeth Pier.