51, Orpington to Woolwich Arsenal

Journey Overview

The 51 bus journey from Orpington to Woolwich traces a steady, revealing path through south-east London, linking suburban high streets, green pockets and industrial heritage. It’s a route that showcases how London changes gradually rather than dramatically, offering a grounded and authentic view of everyday life beyond the centre.

Leaving Orpington, the bus passes residential streets and local shopping areas, giving an immediate sense of the town’s commuter character and connection to Kent. As the route continues through St Mary Cray, older industrial buildings and railway infrastructure sit alongside housing estates, hinting at the area’s working past.

In Sidcup, the journey feels busier and more civic. The high street brings a mix of independent shops, cafés and green spaces nearby, with Foots Cray Meadows just beyond the road offering a striking contrast of open land and waterways. Through Welling, the route stretches out along a long, active high street that feels firmly local, serving shoppers, school students and commuters throughout the day.

As the bus approaches Plumstead and Woolwich, the scenery becomes more industrial. Brick warehouses, rail lines and wide roads signal the approach to the Thames. The arrival into Woolwich feels purposeful, shaped by centuries of maritime and military history. The Royal Arsenal emerges as a focal point, its restored buildings and riverside setting marking a clear shift in atmosphere.

A Fab Day Out!

Begin your day in Orpington with breakfast before boarding the bus. Close to Orpington station, independent cafés and bakeries offer relaxed breakfast options, ideal for easing into the day. After breakfast, take a short walk through Orpington Priory Gardens. The gardens provide a peaceful setting with lawns, flowerbeds and historic buildings, making them a calm and reflective starting point.

Return to the station area to board the 51 towards Woolwich. As the bus moves through Sidcup, consider hopping off near Foots Cray Meadows. This large open space offers riverside walks, woodland paths and wide meadows, perfect for stretching your legs mid-morning. After exploring, rejoin the route to continue east.

Plan to stop for lunch in Welling. The High Street has a good selection of cafés, bakeries and casual restaurants, all conveniently close to the bus stops. It’s an easy, practical place to pause without needing to travel far from the route, allowing you to enjoy a proper sit-down lunch before the final leg.

In the afternoon, stay on the bus through Plumstead towards Woolwich. Alight near the Royal Arsenal and spend time exploring this historic area on foot. Walk between former warehouses, open squares and the riverside path, learning about Woolwich’s military and industrial past as you go. Finish the day with a Thames-side walk, watching river traffic pass and enjoying the open views across the water.

This itinerary turns a straightforward bus route into a full day of gentle exploration, combining green spaces, local high streets and riverside history at an easy, unhurried pace.