With the opening of the new Silvertown Tunnel in 2025, Transport for London (TfL) is introducing tolls on two major Thames crossings, the Blackwall Tunnel and the Silvertown Tunnel. These new charges will significantly impact how drivers and commuters travel between South and East London.
If you’re a daily commuter, occasional driver, or planning a trip across the Thames, understanding these charges and how to avoid unnecessary stress or penalties is essential. In this guide, we explain the Blackwall Tunnel charge, the Silvertown Tunnel charge, how to pay the Blackwall Tunnel toll, and why booking a minicab may be the smarter choice.
What Are the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels?
The Blackwall Tunnel is a critical river crossing connecting Tower Hamlets (north) and Greenwich (south). It has been used for decades and is notorious for heavy congestion, especially during peak hours. Until now, it has been free to use.
The Silvertown Tunnel is a new, twin-bore road tunnel scheduled to open in 2025. It will connect Silvertown (north side) to North Greenwich (south side), designed to ease pressure on the Blackwall Tunnel and improve connectivity for East London.
Why Are Toll Charges Being Introduced?
Transport for London (TfL) is introducing tolls on both tunnels to:
- Help cover the cost of constructing and operating the Silvertown Tunnel
- Manage traffic by encouraging better route distribution and reducing congestion
- Support long-term environmental and urban transport strategies
This means for the first time, drivers will be required to pay the Blackwall Tunnel toll as well as the new Silvertown Tunnel charge.
Blackwall Tunnel vs Silvertown Tunnel (2025)
| Feature | Blackwall Tunnel | Silvertown Tunnel |
| Status | Existing | Opening in 2025 |
| Location | Under River Thames (Greenwich ↔ Tower Hamlets) | East of Blackwall Tunnel (Silvertown ↔ Greenwich) |
| Purpose | Connects South & East London | Reduce congestion, add capacity |
| Traffic Flow | Two tunnels (Northbound & Southbound) | Two lanes each way (including bus lane) |
| Current Toll | Free (until 2025) | Toll from day one |
| 2025 Toll Charges | £1.50 off-peak / £2.50 peak (cars) | Same as Blackwall |
| Peak Hours | 6–10am & 4–7pm (weekdays) | Same |
| Payment Method | Online (TfL system – like Dart Charge) | Online (same TfL system) |
| Discounts Available | Yes (low-income, Blue Badge, etc.) | Yes |
| Public Transport Access | No dedicated bus lane | Yes – dedicated bus/HGV lane |
What Are the Expected Tunnel Charges?
Although final pricing is subject to Transport for London confirmation, the expected 2025 tolls are as follows:
-
Vehicle Type Auto Pay Off-Peak Charges (06:00–22:00, including weekends) Auto Pay Peak Charges (Mon–Fri: Northbound 06:00–10:00, Southbound 16:00–19:00) Charges Paid by Phone or Online (at all charging times) Motorcycles, mopeds, tricycles £1.50 £2.50 £2.50 Cars and small vans £1.50 £4.00 £4.00 Large vans £2.50 £6.50 £6.50 Heavy goods vehicles £5.00 £10.00 £10.00
Peak hours are defined as 6am–10am and 4pm–7pm, Monday through Friday. Charges will apply both ways and every day, including weekends.
How to Pay Blackwall Tunnel and Silvertown Tunnel Charges
Drivers will be required to use TfL’s official payment platform, similar to the Congestion or Dart Charge systems. Here’s how:
- Register an account with TfL
- Set up Auto Pay or make manual payments
- Pay by midnight the day after travel
- Use TfL’s app or website to manage payments
Failure to pay on time will result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), so it’s essential to stay on top of payments if you’re driving yourself.
Want to Avoid the Hassle? Let Minicabs.co.uk Handle It for You
For many passengers, remembering to pay tolls, checking peak hours, and dealing with PCNs is more trouble than it’s worth. That’s why Minicabs.co.uk offers a seamless alternative.
When you book a minicab with us:
- Your fare includes all tunnel charges, no surprises
- No need to register or manage TfL payments
- Avoid costly fines or missed payments
- Get picked up and dropped off promptly across East and South London
Whether you’re heading to Canary Wharf, London City Airport, or any East London destination, our professional minicab drivers take the stress out of travel.
How Will These Charges Affect Your Journey?
The introduction of tolls may push more drivers to consider alternative transport, especially in areas like:
- Greenwich
- Canning Town
- Silvertown
- Beckton
- North Woolwich
- Canary Wharf
While congestion may improve due to traffic redistribution, the tolls could increase the cost of regular commuting if you’re using your car. This makes fixed-fare minicabs an appealing option, as you know the price upfront, with no toll management required.
When Should You Consider Booking a Minicab Instead?
Minicabs are ideal if:
- You want to avoid dealing with TfL toll payments
- You’re unsure about peak/off-peak times
- You’re traveling with luggage or in a group
- You’re heading to or from London airports
- You’re not a London resident or visiting from abroad
With Minicabs, you don’t have to think about peak surcharges or payment deadlines; we’ve got it covered.
FAQs
- Is the Blackwall Tunnel free to use in 2025?
No. From 2025, the Blackwall Tunnel will no longer be free and will have the same toll charges as the new Silvertown Tunnel.
- How do I pay the Blackwall Tunnel toll?
You must register with TfL’s payment system and either pay manually by midnight the next day or use Auto Pay to avoid fines.
- Will there be discounts on tunnel charges?
Yes, certain users, such as Blue Badge holders, local residents, and low-income individuals, may qualify for discounted or exempt travel. Details will be provided by TfL.
- What happens if I don’t pay the toll on time?
You’ll receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), which includes a fine that may be significantly higher than the original toll fee.
- Do minicabs include the toll in the fare?
Yes. At Minicabs.co.uk, all relevant charges, including Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnel tolls, are built into your upfront fare.
Take Control of Your Journey Today
The introduction of tolls at the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnels marks a significant shift in how London manages its growing traffic. For drivers, the tolls add cost, complexity, and the risk of fines. For passengers, it’s an opportunity to switch to a more convenient and hassle-free option.
By booking your ride through Minicabs.co.uk, you can avoid the stress of toll payments, beat peak-time queues, and arrive on time every time.
