Gallions Reach facts for kids

This old map from 1884 shows different parts of the River Thames called "reaches." Gallions Reach is one of them.

A view of the eastern end of Gallions Reach.

Gallions Reach is a special part of the River Thames in London. It's like a long, straight section of the river that flows between two areas: Woolwich and Thamesmead. This area got its name from the Galyons family, who lived here way back in the 1300s! They owned land along this stretch of the river. That's why you'll find places and even street names on both sides of the river that are named after Gallions Reach.

What's on the North Side of Gallions Reach?

If you look north of the River Thames, in an area called the London Borough of Newham, you'll find some interesting places. There's a big shopping area called Gallions Reach Shopping Park. It's a great spot if you want to find stores and places to eat. You'll also find the Gallions Reach DLR station here, which is part of London's special light railway system.

What's on the South Side of Gallions Reach?

On the south side of the River Thames, in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, there's an area known as Gallions Hill. This part is located between the river and a road called Western Way. It's quite close to the main part of Thamesmead town.

How Do People Travel Around Gallions Reach?

Gallions Reach has a history with trains! A long time ago, from 1880 to 1940, there was a train station simply called Gallions. It was the very last stop on a railway line called the Eastern Counties and Thames Junction Railway.

Later, in 1994, a new train station opened. This was the Gallions Reach DLR station, which is part of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR). This DLR line helps people travel easily to places like Beckton.

There are also plans for a new way to cross the river here. People are talking about building a new bridge or tunnel at Gallions Reach to make travel even easier!