Find the best Thames river cruises in London. See the capital from a new perspective as you glide along the river Thames, taking in iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye.
From sightseeing tours and hop-on hop-off journeys, to dinner cruises and high-speed adventures, there’s an experience for every type of visitor. Our selection is informed by annual visitor data, trusted partner feedback, first-hand experience and insights from the Visit London editorial team, covering everything from classic Thames cruises to seasonal Christmas and New Year’s Eve experiences.
Thames river cruises not to miss in London
- 🚤 Thames sightseeing cruises – Best for first-time visitors wanting iconic London views from the water
- 🫖 Thames afternoon tea cruises – Best for traditional afternoon tea with riverside landmarks and relaxed sightseeing
- 🍽️ Thames dinner cruises – Best for evening dining experiences with panoramic city views
- 🎉 Thames party cruises – Best for celebrations, live music and late-night experiences on the river
- 🥂 Thames lunch cruises – Best for daytime dining and leisurely sightseeing along the Thames
Explore Thames cruises
Nearest Tube: Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee)
When: Daily: 7.45pm
Duration: 3 hours
Enjoy an unforgettable evening on the Thames with this elegant London dinner cruise, combining fine dining, live entertainment and spectacular nighttime views of the capital. Begin with a welcome glass of sparkling wine before sitting down to a delicious four-course dinner as London's illuminated landmarks glide past your window.
As you cruise beneath Tower Bridge and towards Canary Wharf, soak up panoramic views of the city's iconic skyline before the onboard entertainment takes centre stage. With live music, dancing and a vibrant atmosphere, this experience offers a memorable way to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a sophisticated night out in London.
Best for: Live entertainment, romantic things to do in London and special occasions
Good to know: Smart-casual attire is recommended, and dancefloor seating can become lively later in the evening.
City Cruises: London Dinner Cruise, SW1A 2JH
From £65.00
Based on 230 reviews
Nearest Tube: Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee)
When: Fri: 8pm
Duration: 3 hours
Enjoy an elegant evening on the river Thames with a jazz dinner cruise that combines live music, fine dining and spectacular views of London after dark. Begin the experience with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine before settling in for a delicious three-course meal, accompanied by the smooth sounds of live jazz as the city’s illuminated skyline drifts by.
Departing from Westminster Pier, the cruise passes some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including the London Eye, Tower Bridge and the glittering skyscrapers of Canary Wharf. Blending sophisticated entertainment with memorable sightseeing, we love that this atmospheric experience offers a unique way to spend an evening in the capital.
Best for: Romantic sightseeing, luxury experience, live entertainment
Good to know: Window seats are especially popular for evening sailings which is why we suggest arriving early to board.
Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2JH
From £94.00
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Daily: 6.30pm
Duration: 2 hours
Experience London after dark on an evening cruise along the river Thames. Sip a glass of sparkling wine and enjoy a selection of delicious canapes as you drift past the capital’s illuminated landmarks, taking in the city’s magical atmosphere from the comfort of the boat or the open-air upper deck.
As the sun sets and the skyline begins to sparkle, you'll enjoy stunning views of iconic sights including the London Eye, Tower Bridge and Big Ben, accompanied by live music throughout the cruise. Combining sightseeing, entertainment and a relaxed social atmosphere, this evening experience is a great way to see London from the water.
Best for: On-board entertainment, couples, first-time visitors
Good to know: It can get very windy on the Thames, so we suggest bringing a light jacket
Tower Millennium Pier, London, EC3N 4DT
From £44.01
Lunch cruises
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Daily: 11.45am
Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon on the river Thames with a scenic lunch cruise that combines sightseeing, dining and a laid-back atmosphere. As you drift through the heart of London, take in informative audio commentary while passing some of the city’s most famous riverside landmarks, including Big Ben, the London Eye and historic London Bridge.
Savour a freshly prepared two-course lunch on board, with time afterwards to stroll the deck and enjoy views from the open-air areas or visit the fully stocked bar. This gentle mini voyage offers a comfortable and unhurried way to experience London from the water.
Best for: Budget-friendly, family-friendly things to do in London, relaxed sightseeing
Good to know: Daytime sailings are ideal for photography and perfect for selfies with famous landmarks in the background.
Tower Millennium Pier, London, EC3N 4DT
From £59.00
Afternoon tea cruises
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Daily departures (click find out more for available sailing times)
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Experience one of Britain’s most cherished traditions with an elegant afternoon tea cruise along the river Thames. As you sail through the heart of London, enjoy a classic selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, and an assortment of cakes and sweet treats, all served alongside spectacular views of the city’s iconic skyline.
This leisurely sightseeing cruise offers a unique perspective of London’s famous landmarks, including the Tower of London, the Shard, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye. Combining delicious refreshments with riverside scenery, it’s a relaxing and memorable way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy the city from the water.
Best for: Afternoon tea fans, relaxed sightseeing, special occasions
Good to know: You can upgrade your experience with a glass of bubbles.
Tower Millennium Pier, London, EC3N 4DT
From £79.00
Nearest Tube: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City)
When: Daily at various times
Duration: 40 minutes
Discover London from two unique perspectives with a combined London Eye river cruise experience. Start by soaring above the capital on the iconic London Eye, where you'll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline from one of the world's tallest cantilevered observation wheels. Then, continue your adventure on the river Thames with a relaxing sightseeing cruise showcasing London's most famous riverside landmarks.
Departing from the London Eye Pier, the circular river cruise offers a different view of the capital, passing attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London and the London Eye itself. Combining aerial views with waterside sightseeing, this package is an excellent way to experience more of London in a single day. We particularly enjoy seeing London’s iconic landmarks from the river, as it offers a unique perspective.
Best for: Great for first-time visitors, family-friendly, iconic London experiences
Good to know: Both experiences are fully accessible for most visitors.
Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB
From £53.97
Nearest Tube: Depending on the pier
When: Daily: 10am, every 40 minutes
Duration: 24 hours
See London’s most famous riverside landmarks from a unique perspective with a flexible hop-on hop-off Thames sightseeing cruise. We think it’s a fantastic way to experience top London attractions along the way. With unlimited travel for 24 hours, you can explore the city at your own pace, hopping on and off at key piers near attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and Tower Bridge.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or looking for an easy way to travel between major sights, this convenient river service combines transportation with sightseeing. Enjoy panoramic views from the water while avoiding the crowds and traffic of central London.
Best for: Great for first-time visitors, flexible sightseeing, budget-friendly
Good to know: Unlimited hop-on hop-off access is valid for 24 hours making it easy to create your own sightseeing itinerary.
Victoria Embankment, Westminster, London, SW1A 2JH
From £15.00
Based on 6,800 reviews
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Daily: 10.45am-4.45pm, every hour
Duration: 40 minutes
Step back in time on the Tower of London River Cruise, a unique sightseeing experience that brings the capital’s rich history to life. Combining expert storytelling with humour and immersive narration, this circular Thames cruise features specially created commentary from the co-creator of BBC’s Ghosts, alongside insights curated by Historic Royal Palaces.
As you sail along the river, enjoy panoramic views of more than 20 of London’s most famous landmarks, including the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye and Big Ben. Blending fascinating historical tales with spectacular scenery, this cruise offers an engaging and entertaining way to discover the stories behind the city’s iconic skyline. It also offers a more eco-friendly way to explore the river.
Best for: History enthusiasts, family-friendly, great for first-time visitors, educational experiences
Good to know: The cruise offers unobstructed views of Southwark Cathedral and the detailed architecture of the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament).
Nearest Tube: Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City)
When: Daily: 10am-8pm, varies seasonally
Duration: 50 to 80 minutes
Experience London at high speed with an exhilarating Thames Rockets adventure on the river Thames. Combining sightseeing with adrenaline-pumping twists and turns, this thrilling speedboat ride offers a unique way to see the capital while racing past some of its most famous riverside landmarks.
Depending on your chosen route, you may speed towards the Thames Barrier or Canary Wharf, taking in sights such as Big Ben, Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast and Tate Modern along the way. With expert commentary, upbeat music and plenty of high-speed action, it’s an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to add excitement to their London visit. For more information read our Thames Rockets Rocket Rebel speedboat tour review.
Best for: Thrill-seekers, great for families and groups
Good to know: High-speed sections take place beyond central London, and minimum age or height restrictions may apply on selected departures.
Boarding Gate One, The London Eye Millennium Pier, London, SE1 7PB
From £64.95
Based on 16,111 reviews
When: Times vary
Duration: One day
Combine river travel with aerial views of the city with an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers River Roamer pass and IFS Cloud Cable Car experience. Enjoy unlimited travel along the river Thames throughout the day, hopping on and off at piers across the capital to discover famous attractions and vibrant riverside neighbourhoods, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the Tower of London, Greenwich and The O2.
Cruise past iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf before heading to North Greenwich for a spectacular journey on the IFS Cloud Cable Car. Soaring high above the Thames, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, The O2 and London’s impressive skyline, making this a memorable way to see the city from two unique perspectives.
Best for: Flexible sightseeing, budget-conscious travellers, Great for first-time visitors, families
Good to know: The river boat bus service covers 24 piers across the city.
London Bridge City Pier, London, SE1 2QE
From £11.40
When: Daily: 10am-5pm
Duration: One or two days
Discover London at your own pace on a hop-on hop-off Thames river sightseeing cruise between Westminster and Greenwich. With multiple piers to choose from, you can start your journey wherever suits you best and enjoy a relaxed ride through the heart of the capital, supported by multilingual audio commentary that brings the city’s landmarks to life.
From the water, take in sweeping views of London’s most iconic sights, including Tower Bridge, Big Ben and the London Eye. With the option to extend your experience over two days, this flexible river pass is an easy and enjoyable way to explore the capital’s highlights at a comfortable pace.
Best for: First-time visitors, flexible sightseeing, budget-conscious travellers, families
Good to know: Multilingual audio commentary is included onboard and seating is available on both indoor and open-air decks.
Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2JH
From £17.20
Nearest Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District)
When: Sat: 9.30pm
Duration: 40 minutes
Step aboard the official Illuminated River boat tour and experience London’s iconic riverside transformed after dark. As you cruise along the Thames, you’ll pass nine bridges brought to life through Leo Villareal’s stunning light installations, each designed to reflect stories from the city’s rich history and create a captivating, ever-changing night-time display. We love that he also designed the lights on the Golden Gate bridge.
From the water, enjoy glowing views of some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the Shard, all illuminated against the night sky. This atmospheric journey offers a fresh perspective on the capital, combining art, architecture and sightseeing in one unforgettable evening experience.
Best for: First-time visitors, romantic sightseeing, live entertainment, luxury experience
Good to know: Tickets are limited and often sell out in advance; booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially for peak evening departures.
Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames Street, London, EC3N 4DT
From £15.45
Nearest Tube: Victoria (Circle, District and Victoria) for the tour and Westminster (Circle, District and Jubilee) for the lunch cruise
When: 25 Dec
Duration: 7 hours
Celebrate Christmas Day in spectacular style with a festive London experience combining a panoramic sightseeing bus tour and a relaxing Thames river cruise. Begin your journey through the city’s twinkling streets, taking in the seasonal lights and festive atmosphere before continuing onto the water, where a traditional Christmas lunch is served as London’s riverside landmarks glide past.
From both land and river, enjoy unforgettable views of the capital’s most iconic sights, including Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. Blending seasonal celebration with classic sightseeing, this experience offers a memorable way to spend Christmas Day in London.
Best for: Romantic sightseeing, families, luxury experience, special occasions
Good to know: Includes a festive Christmas lunch and guided sightseeing from both bus and boat. Book in advance as this seasonal experience sells out quickly.
New Year’s Eve cruise party on the Thames – Best for a memorable start in the new year with fireworks
Where: Multiple locations
Nearest Tube: Varies
When: 31 Dec at 9pm
Duration: 5 hours
Ring in the New Year in unforgettable style with a celebratory New Year’s Eve Thames cruise party, combining live entertainment, festive drinks and front-row views of London’s iconic skyline. As you sail through the heart of the capital, enjoy a lively onboard atmosphere with music, dancing and a complimentary glass in hand while the city glows in anticipation of midnight.
Cruise past some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Tower Bridge, the Shard and the London Eye, before heading to the open deck for panoramic views of the world-famous fireworks display. When midnight arrives, raise a toast as the Thames becomes one of the most spectacular places to welcome the new year.
Best for: Romantic sightseeing, live entertainment, groups, special occasions
Good to know: We recommend booking early in advance as departure times and cruise options may vary each year.
More river cruises and boat trips
Turks Launches tour
Canal boat tour
Kayak tour
Departure piers map
Most Thames river cruises and London boat tours depart from central London piers close to major attractions and transport links. Use the map below to locate departure piers and their location along the River Thames.
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers
Make more of your travel time with London’s River Bus! Take to the Thames for the best view of London
Thames River Sightseeing
See the sights as you glide down the river Thames on a Thames River Sightseeing cruise.
Afternoon tea cruise on the Thames
Float along the river and admire London from the water during an afternoon tea cruise on the Thames.
Evening cruise on the Thames
Treat yourself to a relaxing evening cruise on the Thames, complete with bubbly, live music and gorgeous views of London after dark.
London Eye river cruise with London Eye ticket
Enjoy spectacular views of London from above and from the water with a London Eye and river cruise package.
Lunch cruise on the Thames
See London's sights from a different angle while treating yourself to an indulgent meal on a Thames lunch cruise.
City Cruises
City Cruises, London's No.1 Sightseeing and Dining Tours! Our cruises depart every 50 minutes, every day of the week, all year round from Westminster, the London Eye and the Tower of London.
Illuminated river official boat tour
As night falls, London reveals a different kind of beauty. Step aboard the Illuminated River Official Boat Tour and watch the city sparkle from the Thames. Nine iconic bridges are transformed by arti...
Official Tower of London River Tour
Discover London from a unique perspective on the official Tower of London River Tour – a 40-minute round trip that glides past the city’s most famous landmarks, all viewed from a state-of-the-art elec...
Jazz Dinner Cruise Thames London
Thames Rockets
Experience the thrill of a speedboat sightseeing tour with Thames Rockets.
City Cruises: London Dinner Cruise
City Cruises' London Dinner Cruise combines top tunes with a superb four-course meal as part of its unique cruise along the river Thames.
Turk Launches
Turk Launches is a 300-year-old river boat company that cruises along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Thames in South West London.
Westminster Pier – Best for Big Ben, the London Eye and central sightseeing routes
Tower Pier – Popular for dinner cruises and Tower Bridge views
Embankment Pier – Convenient for Covent Garden and the West End
Greenwich Pier – Ideal for longer sightseeing trips and exploring maritime Greenwich
Departure piers explained
Most Thames river cruises and London boat tours depart from central London piers located close to major attractions and transport links. Choosing the right departure point can help you plan your day more easily, especially if you want to combine your cruise with sightseeing nearby.
| Pier | Nearest Tube | Common cruise types | Nearby landmarks |
| Westminster Pier | Westminster | Sightseeing cruises and afternoon tea cruises | Big Ben, London Eye, Houses of Parliament |
| Tower Pier | Tower Hill | Dinner cruises and evening cruises | Tower Bridge, Tower of London |
| Embankment Pier | Embankment | Sightseeing tours and selected cruises | Covent Garden, Somerset House |
| Greenwich Pier | Cutty Sark DLR | Longer Thames boat trips and sightseeing cruises | Cutty Sark, Royal Observatory |
