Thames River Cruise — Best Places & Things to Do (2025)
Sail London’s historic waterway and see Big Ben, the London Eye, St Paul’s, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge from the best angle—the river. This guide highlights verified routes, must-see stops, and easy ticket options for sightseeing, hop-on hop-off, lunch and dinner cruises.
Top Experiences on a Thames River Cruise
Westminster → Tower Bridge Loop
Classic round-trip from Westminster Pier with live commentary—see Parliament, the Eye, St Paul’s, HMS Belfast and Tower Bridge.
Westminster ↔ Greenwich Route
One-way or return sailings ending at maritime Greenwich for the Cutty Sark and Old Royal Naval College.
Hop-On Hop-Off Boats
Use the river like a floating bus—flexible passes cover Westminster, London Eye, Tower and Greenwich Piers.
Lunch Cruise
Daytime dining with panoramic windows—great for relaxed sightseeing while you enjoy a set menu.
Dinner & Evening Cruises
Live music, city lights and multi-course menus for a special night out on the water.
Night Photography
Capture illuminated bridges and skyline reflections—pack a fast lens and a steady hand for low-light shots.
Best Places to See from the River
Westminster & Big Ben
The postcard view: Parliament and Elizabeth Tower rising above the water at the start of most routes.
South Bank & London Eye
Glide past County Hall and the Eye; boats often stop at London Eye Pier for easy connections.
St Paul’s & Millennium Bridge
See Wren’s dome and the modern footbridge near Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe.
Tower of London & Tower Bridge
Medieval fortress and London’s most famous bascule bridge—spectacular when the spans lift.
Greenwich
Maritime heritage: Cutty Sark, Old Royal Naval College and riverside pubs—great place to end a cruise.
Canary Wharf & The Shard
Glass-and-steel skyline views contrast with historic wharves and warehouses along the river.
Which Thames Ticket Should You Choose?
Westminster ↔ Greenwich Sightseeing
Live or recorded commentary; choose one-way or return. Great first-timer overview.
Circular Cruise (Tower Bridge)
Compact round-trip from Westminster Pier with live guide—hits the major sights fast.
Hop-On Hop-Off Pass
24-hour flexibility between Westminster, London Eye, Tower and Greenwich Piers.
Lunch or Dinner Cruise
Daytime 2-course lunches or evening 3–4-course menus with live music and city lights.
Good to know: Mobile e-tickets are accepted; many products offer free cancellation up to a cut-off time shown at checkout.
Food, Pubs & Markets Near the Piers
South Bank Bites (London Eye)
Street food, riverside chains and coffee spots line the promenade—easy pre-sailing fuel.
Borough Market (London Bridge)
Huge gourmet market a short walk from the river for pastries, cheese, curries and more.
Riverside Pubs (Tower/Greenwich)
Historic inns with views—perfect for a pint after your cruise. Check kitchen hours.
Views with a Drink
Reserve Sky Garden (free) for skyline views before/after sailing; bring ID for security.
Quick Visitor Tips
Best Time
Golden hour near sunset for warm light; mornings for fewer crowds and calmer decks.
Duration
Plan 70–90 minutes for loops; add extra time for pier connections and photos.
Tickets
Pre-book weekends, sunsets and school holidays; window tables go first on dinner boats.
Accessibility
Access varies by boat and tide—confirm wheelchair access with the operator in advance.
Weather
Boats run in light rain; bring a layer—windchill is higher on open decks.
Transport
Nearest stations: Westminster, Waterloo/Embankment (London Eye), Tower Hill/Tower Gateway, Cutty Sark DLR.
Ready to Cruise the Thames?
Pick your perfect sailing—sightseeing, hop-on hop-off, lunch or dinner—and enjoy London from the water.