Silvertown Tunnel Toll Charges – What Drivers Need to Know
The Silvertown Tunnel is now open, providing a faster link between East and Southeast London. However, drivers should be aware that a toll now applies to both the Silvertown Tunnel and the Blackwall Tunnel.
If you drive regularly in London as a PCO or private hire driver. Understanding how the charges work will help you avoid fines and plan your journeys better.
Key Points at a Glance
- Toll charges apply to both Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels
- Charges depend on time of day, not the tunnel used
- Charging hours: 6am – 10pm
- Travel is free overnight (10pm – 6am)
- Charges apply in both directions
- Best way to pay: TfL Auto Pay
Kia eNiro
£125/week
Kia Niro 2
£260/week
Mercedes Benz EQE
£325/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£375/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
When Do Silvertown Tunnel Toll Charges Apply?
Drivers using the Silvertown or Blackwall Tunnel are charged during the following hours:
- Charging hours: 6am – 10pm (daily)
- Free travel: 10pm – 6am
- Applies both northbound and southbound
Overnight travel is currently free, making late-night journeys more cost-effective.
How Much Is the Silvertown Tunnel Toll?
For cars and small vans (including most PCO vehicles), the charges are:
Peak Hours (Higher Charge – £4.00 per crossing)
- Northbound (towards East London):
- Monday to Friday, 6am – 10am
- Monday to Friday, 6am – 10am
- Southbound (towards South London):
- Monday to Friday, 4pm – 7pm
- Monday to Friday, 4pm – 7pm
Off-Peak Hours (Lower Charge – £1.50 per crossing)
- All other times between 6am – 10pm
- All weekend travel is off-peak
Off-peak rates are only available when using Auto Pay.
Do You Pay for Both Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels?
Yes. The same charges apply to both tunnels, and each crossing is charged separately. Using both tunnels in one day means you’ll pay twice.
Why Are There Charges on These Tunnels?
The tunnel user charges have been introduced to:
- Control traffic and reduce congestion
- Help repay the cost of building the Silvertown Tunnel
- Fund maintenance and day-to-day operation of both tunnels
By charging more at busy times and keeping overnight travel free, traffic is spread more evenly across the day.
How to Pay the Silvertown Tunnel Charge
Auto Pay (Recommended)
Auto Pay is the easiest and cheapest option.
- Sign up online with Transport for London
Link a debit or credit card - Charges are taken automatically
- No sign-up or renewal fees
- Required for off-peak discounts
Pay Online or via App
- Pay through the TfL website
- Or use the TfL Pay to Drive app (iOS & Android)
Pay by Phone
- Call: 0343 222 2222
- Text: 020 7649 9123
Late or missed payments may result in Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs).
Silvertown Tunnel Charges for PCO Drivers
PCO drivers should note the following:
- You won’t be charged when completing a TfL-licensed booking in a zero-emission capable vehicle
- You will be charged for:
- Any non-booked journeys
- Personal use of the tunnels
- Trips in non-exempt vehicles
- Charges apply every time you use either tunnel
- Auto Pay helps avoid missed payments and penalties
If you’re unsure, TfL provides a vehicle checker tool on their website.
Helpful Tips to Save Money
- Plan journeys to travel off-peak where possible
- Use Auto Pay to access lower rates
- Avoid unnecessary crossings during peak hours
- Keep track of bookings vs personal use
- Set reminders if not using Auto Pay
Start Earning Today.
Final Thoughts
The Silvertown Tunnel offers quicker journeys, but the new toll means planning ahead is essential. Know the charging times, use Auto Pay, and understand when exemptions apply, especially if you’re a PCO driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avoid the toll by taking another route?
Technically, yes. Tower Bridge, Rotherhithe Tunnel, and Woolwich Ferry are toll-free alternatives, but they are often slower and more congested, which can impact your earnings.
Will Uber or Bolt reimburse me for toll charges?
No, but you can include tolls in the fare when using platforms like Uber, Bolt, or FREENOW. Make sure your fare settings and app are up to date.
Will there be ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras on Silvertown Tunnel?
Yes, tolls are enforced using ANPR cameras, so make sure your number plate is correctly registered with AutoPay to avoid fines.
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