Quick Summary
Blackwall Tunnel and Silvertown Tunnel charges apply to most vehicles travelling between East and South London. Car drivers typically pay from £1.50 during off-peak periods and up to £4.00 during peak hours, while larger vehicles such as HGVs can pay up to £10.00 per crossing. Charges apply each time you use the tunnel and in both directions. Payments must be made through TfL by midnight on the third day after travel to avoid a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). For stress-free travel, QMH London Airport Taxi offers fixed-price airport transfers with instant quotes available through our taxi calculator London UK.
At-a-Glance Answer: Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnel Charges 2026
The opening of the Silvertown Tunnel has introduced a new charging system alongside the existing Blackwall Tunnel, changing how drivers travel between East London and South London. Most vehicles using either crossing between 6am and 10pm must pay a charge, with different rates for peak and off-peak periods.
For private cars, charges start at £1.50 off-peak and rise to £4.00 during peak hours, while commercial vehicles and HGVs may pay significantly more. The charge applies per crossing, meaning a return journey may require two separate payments.
This guide explains the latest Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnel charges, peak and off-peak times, payment methods, discounts, exemptions, and how to avoid penalties in 2026.What Are the Blackwall Tunnel and Silvertown Tunnel?
The Blackwall Tunnel is a major Thames crossing connecting Tower Hamlets in North London with Greenwich in South London. For years, it has been one of East London's busiest routes, carrying thousands of vehicles daily and often experiencing heavy congestion during peak hours.
The Silvertown Tunnel is a new river crossing linking Silvertown and North Greenwich. Built to reduce pressure on the Blackwall Tunnel, it provides additional capacity, improves connectivity between East and South London, and helps create more reliable journeys for drivers.
Why Are Charges Being Introduced?
Transport for London introduced charges on both tunnels to manage demand, reduce congestion, and support the operation of the new crossing.
- Help fund the construction and operation of the Silvertown Tunnel
- Reduce congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel
- Encourage more efficient use of road space
- Improve journey times across East London
- Support wider environmental and transport policies
The introduction of tolls means the Blackwall Tunnel, which was previously free to use, now operates under a user-charge system similar to other paid road crossings.
Blackwall Tunnel vs Silvertown Tunnel 2026
| Feature | Blackwall Tunnel | Silvertown Tunnel |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Existing | Opened in 2025 |
| Location | Under River Thames (Greenwich ↔ Tower Hamlets) | East of Blackwall Tunnel (Silvertown ↔ North Greenwich) |
| Purpose | Connects South & East London | Reduces congestion and adds capacity |
| Traffic Flow | Separate Northbound & Southbound tunnels | Two lanes each way including public transport services |
| Charging Status | Subject to user charges | Subject to user charges |
| Peak Charging Periods | Weekdays 06:00-10:00 & 16:00-19:00 | Same charging periods |
| Payment Method | TfL Online Payment System | TfL Online Payment System |
| Discounts Available | Eligible residents and concession schemes | Eligible residents and concession schemes |
| Public Transport Access | No dedicated bus lane | Dedicated bus services available |
Expected Tunnel Charges in 2026
The amount you pay for using the Silvertown or Blackwall Tunnel depends on your vehicle type and payment method.
How to pay the Silvertown or Blackwall Tunnel charge
Auto Pay
If you travel through the Silvertown or Blackwall tunnels regularly, TfL Auto Pay is the most convenient payment option. Once your account is set up and your vehicle is registered, tunnel charges are collected automatically after each journey, helping you avoid missed payments and unnecessary Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs).
Auto Pay also gives drivers access to lower off-peak charges where applicable and allows multiple vehicles to be managed under a single account, making it ideal for families, businesses, and professional drivers.
You can register for Auto Pay through the official Transport for London (TfL) website and link a valid payment card to your account.
Pay Online
If you don't have an Auto Pay account, you can make a one-off payment online using TfL's secure "Pay to Drive in London" service. Simply enter your vehicle details, select the relevant road user charge, and pay using a debit or credit card.
TfL also offers the free Pay to Drive in London mobile app for both Android and iPhone, allowing you to make payments and manage your journeys wherever you are.
Pay by Phone
If you prefer, you can pay over the phone using TfL's automated payment service.
- Within the UK: 0343 222 2222
- From outside the UK: +44 343 222 2222
- Textphone: 020 7649 9123 (for customers with hearing impairments)
Keep in mind that drivers who choose one-off online or telephone payments instead of Auto Pay may not benefit from lower off-peak rates. If you use the tunnels frequently, Auto Pay is generally the easiest and most cost-effective way to manage your charges.
What Happens If You Don't Pay?
Failure to pay for travel through the Blackwall or Silvertown Tunnel within the required timeframe can result in a Penalty Charge Notice.
These penalties are significantly higher than the original crossing fee, so drivers should make sure payments are made correctly and on time. If you are unsure whether your journey is chargeable, check before you travel rather than after the deadline has passed.
Areas Most Affected by the New Tunnel Charges
The charging scheme is expected to affect residents, commuters, airport passengers, and businesses across several parts of London, including:
- Greenwich
- North Greenwich
- Canary Wharf
- Canning Town
- Silvertown
- Beckton
- North Woolwich
- Docklands
People who previously relied on the Blackwall Tunnel for daily commuting may notice higher travel costs. At the same time, the Silvertown Tunnel could help reduce delays and improve journey reliability across East London.
Benefits of the New Tunnel Network
While some motorists are concerned about extra costs, the new tunnel network is intended to improve traffic flow and create more reliable journey times.
By sharing traffic demand between the Silvertown Tunnel and the Blackwall Tunnel, TfL aims to reduce severe congestion in one of London's busiest river-crossing corridors. Improved connectivity may also support local businesses, logistics companies, airport travellers, and residents moving between East and South London.
Skip the Charges, Focus on the Journey
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Should You Drive or Book a Taxi?
- Daily commuter? Auto Pay may be useful if you cross regularly in your own vehicle.
- Airport passenger? A fixed-fare taxi is usually easier, especially with luggage and flight timing.
- Visitor to London? Booking a taxi avoids confusion around TfL payment deadlines and tunnel charges.
- Travelling with family or luggage? A pre-booked MPV or 8-seater can be more convenient than managing multiple public transport changes.
- Business traveller? A fixed-price airport taxi gives you predictable cost, timing, and route planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Blackwall Tunnel free to use in 2026?
No. The Blackwall Tunnel is now subject to user charges alongside the Silvertown Tunnel. The amount you pay depends on vehicle type, payment method, and time of travel.
Why was the Silvertown Tunnel built?
The Silvertown Tunnel was built to provide extra river-crossing capacity, improve connectivity between East and South London, and reduce congestion at the Blackwall Tunnel.
How do I pay tunnel charges?
Drivers can pay online through TfL's payment system or register for Auto Pay. Auto Pay is usually the easiest option for regular users because it helps reduce the risk of missed payments.
Do charges apply every day?
Charges apply during set charging hours. Drivers should check the latest TfL guidance before using the Blackwall Tunnel or Silvertown Tunnel, especially if travelling at peak times.
Can I receive a fine for non-payment?
Yes. Failure to pay the tunnel charge by the required deadline may result in a Penalty Charge Notice. The penalty is much higher than the original crossing charge.
Is Blackwall Tunnel in the Congestion Charge Zone?
No. The Blackwall Tunnel is not located within the London Congestion Charge Zone. However, drivers using the Blackwall and Silvertown Tunnel may still need to pay the relevant tunnel user charge. Depending on your vehicle and route, other charges such as ULEZ may also apply.
How long do you have to pay Blackwall Tunnel charge?
If you drive through the Blackwall Tunnel during charging hours, you must pay the charge by midnight on the third day after your journey. Payments can be made online, through TfL's Auto Pay system, or by phone.
Do you have to pay to go through the Blackwall Tunnel?
Yes. Drivers using the Blackwall Tunnel during charging hours must pay the applicable tunnel charge. Charges apply between 06:00 and 22:00 in both directions. Overnight travel between 22:00 and 06:00 is generally free.
Are tunnel charges included in London Airport Taxi fares?
Where applicable, London Airport Taxi includes relevant route charges in fixed-price fares, so passengers do not need to manage TfL tunnel payments separately. Use our Taxi Fare Calculator to check your journey price before booking.
Is a taxi better than driving through the tunnels yourself?
For many passengers, yes. A fixed-price taxi removes the need to track charges, remember payment deadlines, or worry about PCNs. It is especially useful for airport transfers, visitors, business travellers, families, and passengers with luggage.
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Final Thoughts
The launch of the Silvertown Tunnel represents a major investment in London's transport network. While the introduction of charges for both the Silvertown Tunnel and the Blackwall Tunnel adds a new cost for drivers, the long-term aim is to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion across East London.
Whether you use the Blackwall Tunnel daily or plan to travel through the Silvertown Tunnel occasionally, understanding the charging system is essential. Staying informed about payment deadlines, discounts, and charging periods will help you avoid unnecessary penalties and make your journeys smoother in 2026.
For a simpler option, book with London Airport Taxi. Our fixed-price fares, professional drivers, and London taxi estimate help you travel across London without worrying about tunnel payments or hidden charges.
