Complete Guide to Silvertown & Blackwall Tunnel Charges for London Drivers
The Silvertown Tunnel and the Blackwall Tunnel are two of the most important river crossings in East London.
With the new Silvertown Tunnel opening and the Blackwall Tunnel now joining a new charging system, many London drivers want clear and simple information about the tolls, rules, timings, and how to avoid fines.
This guide explains everything in easy words, helping you travel with confidence, avoid extra charges, and plan your journey smartly.
Introduction to the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels
London’s traffic has grown over the years, especially around the Blackwall Tunnel, which carries thousands of vehicles every day. To reduce congestion and offer a more reliable crossing, the Silvertown Tunnel charge was introduced. Both tunnels now follow a unified toll system, meaning drivers pay to use them, similar to other major crossings across the UK.
Many drivers are confused about when the toll applies, how much they need to pay, and what happens if they forget. This guide covers all these points step by step.
Why Are There Charges for These Tunnels?
The tunnel charges were introduced for three main reasons:
• Reduce traffic:
By charging drivers, fewer unnecessary trips are made, helping reduce heavy congestion during peak hours.
• Improve air quality:
Lower traffic means less pollution, making the area cleaner for residents.
• Support the new Silvertown Tunnel:
The toll helps cover construction and operating costs while keeping both tunnels maintained and safe.
These charges are not meant to discourage travel, but to make traffic smoother and journeys faster for everyone.
How the Charging System Works
The charging system for both tunnels is simple. When you drive through either the Silvertown Tunnel or the Blackwall Tunnel, your number plate is automatically scanned by cameras. The system then checks if payment has been made for that day.
There are no physical toll booths, so you do not stop your car. All payments are done online or through automatic account billing.
If you forget to pay by the deadline, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), which costs more than the normal toll.
Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnel Charges for 2025
Below are the estimated 2025 toll prices for most drivers:
• Cars: £X.XX
• Vans: £X.XX
• Motorcycles: Free or reduced rate
• HGVs and large trucks: £X.XX
(You can update the exact rates once TfL publishes the official numbers.)
Charges apply for both northbound and southbound journeys. If you travel through the tunnel twice in one day, you may be charged two times unless you have an auto-pay discount.
Peak Times and When Charges Apply
The tunnel charges apply 24 hours a day, but peak hours may have higher fees. These usually include:
• Morning rush hour: 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM
• Evening rush hour: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Travelling outside peak times can help you save money and avoid heavy traffic. Many drivers choose late evenings or early mornings for cheaper and smoother travel.
Do You Pay for Both Tunnels?
Yes. The toll applies to both:
- Silvertown Tunnel
- Blackwall Tunnel
You do not get free use of one tunnel just because you used the other. Each crossing is counted separately.
However, the cost is the same for both tunnels. There is no higher or lower charge for choosing either one.
How to Pay the Tunnel Charge
You can pay using any of the following methods:
1. Auto-Pay Account
This is the easiest and safest option.
You create an account, register your vehicle, and payments are taken automatically every time you use the tunnel. This also helps avoid forgetting and receiving fines.
2. Online Payment
You can pay on the official website by entering your number plate.
Payment must usually be done by midnight the next day.
3. Mobile App
Some drivers prefer paying through the TfL app for easier tracking.
4. Retail Payment Points
Some stores allow you to pay in person, but this depends on your location.
Auto-pay is often recommended for regular tunnel users.
What Happens If You Forget to Pay?
If you forget to pay the toll before the deadline, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). This can be much higher than the normal charge.
A typical PCN may cost:
- £XX if paid within 14 days
- £XXX if ignored or paid late
Always check your number plate payments if you travel often.
Vehicles That May Be Exempt or Pay Lower Charges
Some vehicles may be exempt from the tunnel toll or pay a reduced rate. These usually include:
• Emergency service vehicles
• Vehicles for disabled drivers (Blue Badge holders, depending on rules)
• Motorcycles or scooters (reduced or free rate)
• Public transport and authorised vehicles
Always check the official TfL rules to confirm. Rules may change yearly.
Tips to Avoid Extra Costs
Many drivers end up paying more because of simple mistakes. Here are easy ways to avoid unnecessary charges:
• Set up Auto-Pay
This prevents fines and ensures you never miss a payment.
• Travel off-peak
Early mornings, late nights, or weekends often have lower traffic and sometimes cheaper rates.
• Double-check your vehicle registration
If your number plate is wrong in the system, payments may fail.
• Keep reminders on your phone
If you don’t use auto-pay, set a daily reminder after travel.
• Avoid last-minute trips during peak hours
Heavy traffic can mean longer waiting times near the tunnel.
How the New Silvertown Tunnel Helps Drivers
The opening of the Silvertown Tunnel has made life easier for many London drivers:
• Reduces pressure on the Blackwall Tunnel
This means fewer traffic jams and smoother travel.
• Better travel reliability
Drivers now have an alternative crossing, helping avoid delays.
• Improved air quality
Reduced congestion means cleaner air for East London.
• Faster public transport routes
New bus links operate through Silvertown Tunnel, giving more options to commuters.
Differences Between the Two Tunnels
Even though both tunnels are part of the same charging system, there are some key differences:
Blackwall Tunnel
- Oldest and most used
- More congestion during peak hours
- Height restrictions for large vehicles
- Narrow lanes in some parts
Silvertown Tunnel
- New and wider lanes
- Built to support modern traffic
- Better for larger vehicles
- Designed for reduced delays
Most drivers find the Silvertown Tunnel easier to use because it is newer and more spacious.
Are the Tunnels Safe?
Both tunnels are monitored 24/7 with CCTV, emergency help points, and trained staff. Silvertown Tunnel also includes modern ventilation systems and better lighting. Safety measures are updated regularly to ensure smooth travel.
How These Charges Affect London Drivers
The toll system may increase costs for some drivers, but it also brings benefits:
• Faster journeys due to less congestion
• More reliable crossing options
• Cleaner air around the area
• Better road planning for local residents
Many businesses also benefit from improved travel times, especially delivery drivers and minicab companies.
Final Thoughts
London’s Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnel charges are now a standard part of travelling in East London. Understanding the costs, timings, and rules helps you avoid fines and complete your journey smoothly. With clear planning and the right payment method, you can travel across the river without stress and enjoy faster, more reliable routes.
Whether you use the tunnels daily or only a few times a year, this guide gives you the simple, deep information you need to stay informed and travel smart.
