Revisiting the Old Thames Waterfront

Picturing the Past: NarrowBoat, Winter 2025

Christopher M Jones

Chris M. Jones explores images showing the waterfront of the tidal Thames in and around London 

Not actually on the Thames, this 1905 scene at Ilford Wharves is on the River Roding at its head of navigation. In the background is Ilford Bridge where High Road crosses the river, beyond which is the confluence between the Roding and Alders Brook. These wharves were about 3½ miles from the Thames, with Barking Creek making up the first 2 miles to Barking Sluice at the head of the creek, and the River Roding forming the remainder. Barking Sluice has a single pair of gates so craft can only reach the wharves when the tide makes a level when flooding to Ilford. Therefore, the River Roding is at its maximum depth only on spring tides. Steam-powered craft can only go from the Thames to the head of Barking Creek but no further, due to a low bridge at Barking Sluice. Thames barges can lower their sailing gear to proceed to Ilford. Cargoes to Ilford were coal, lime, bricks and other building materials. The nearest barge is carrying chalk which is being unloaded by plank and barrow. …