The Whiting

Watermen’s stairs were semipermanent structures integral to the transport network along the tidal River Thames in England, dating back to the 14th century. These stairs provided essential access to the river, facilitating the operations of watermen who offered taxi services for passengers navigating across and along the river. This network of public stairs, causeways, and alleys played a crucial role in the daily life and commerce of London, connecting various points of interest and enabling efficient movement of people. The Watermen’s stairs reflect the historical importance of river transport in the city’s development and its reliance on the Thames for transportation and trade.