thames river cruise greenwich

Take the boat to Greenwich

Travel along the River Thames and begin your Greenwich adventure in style

Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , famous around the world for its seafaring connections.

Many of the area's most historic sites are located right on the banks of the River Thames. So if you want to get into the maritime spirit and make the most of everything Greenwich has to offer, there's really only one solution: take the boat!

A journey along the River Thames offers stunning views of the city and the perfect start to a day out in Greenwich. Find out more about river travel and cruises in London, and start planning your Greenwich adventure.

At a glance

Practical information to help you plan a trip to Greenwich by boat.

The journey length varies depending on the boat operator and where you start your trip from. As a rough guide, here are the timings for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers , which run regular river bus services all year round.

Uber Boat to Greenwich times:

• Westminster to Greenwich: around 45 minutes
• Tower Bridge to Greenwich: 20 minutes
• London Bridge to Greenwich: 25 minutes
• London Eye to Greenwich: 40 minutes

Greenwich Pier is located on the south bank of the River Thames, right next to historic ship Cutty Sark  and historic Greenwich. The postcode for Greenwich Pier is SE10 9HT.

Find Greenwich Pier on Google Maps

Tickets for all Uber Boat by Thames Clipper services can be bought in advance online, with various options depending on how you're planning to travel.

Tickets are also available on the day from ticket machines and offices next to each pier.

Passengers can also use contactless and Oyster cards to pay for Uber Boat tickets on the day; remember to touch in and out using the yellow card readers.

As well as the regular river bus service, there are a number of other tour operators offering sightseeing river cruises to Greenwich.

Tours include:

• Thames River Sightseeing:  Westminster to Greenwich
• City Cruises: various options available

The current timetable for river bus services run by Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is available here .  RB1 , RB2 and RB6 services all stop at Greenwich.

Transport for London (TfL) publish a map of all Thames river services and stops here .

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers boats are all wheelchair accessible and ramps are used to board the boat. Most piers including Greenwich Pier offer step-free access; the exceptions are Cadogan Pier, Wandsworth Riverside Quarter Pier and London Bridge City Pier.

If you aren't planning on returning by boat, Greenwich has plenty of other public transport options once you've finished exploring the area. The nearest station to Greenwich Pier is Cutty Sark DLR station, connecting with the London Underground network. Frequent National Rail services are available at nearby Greenwich Station, while the town itself is served by numerous bus routes. Find more travel information here .

What to do when you arrive in Greenwich

As soon as you step off the boat at Greenwich, you find yourself in the heart of Maritime Greenwich.

Historic ship Cutty Sark , the fastest and most famous of the 19th century 'tea clippers', is right next to Greenwich Pier and well worth a visit . Explore the ship's decks and discover what life was really like for sailors during the Golden Age of Sail. You can even climb the ship's rigging - if you're brave enough...

The Old Royal Naval College on the banks of the River Thames was originally established as a retirement home for sailors in the 17th century, and its wide spaces and historic buildings make it a popular filming location today . This is also where the old Tudor palace once stood, birthplace of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I .

The College isn't Greenwich's only royal connection : walk across to the Queen's House , a beautiful villa originally built for the wife of James I , for a taste of historic luxury. The mansion combines stunning architecture with a  renowned art collection . Entry is free , and includes access to the whole of the historic house.

Head to the National Maritime Museum  to continue your maritime adventure. This is the world's largest museum dedicated to seafaring, home to must-see objects such as relics from the Titanic and the jacket worn by Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar. Free tickets include entry to all galleries as well as a number of special events and exhibitions throughout the year .

A visit to Greenwich wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Royal Observatory , perched on a hill in the middle of beautiful Greenwich Park . This is the home of Greenwich Mean Time , the Prime Meridian of the World  and London's only Planetarium . Discover the place that made Greenwich the centre of global time and navigation.

Need a break during your day? Greenwich Market is a haven for London's food lovers and vintage shoppers, with covered stalls and shops open every day.

Book tickets

Ready to make your river cruise a reality? Don't forget to book entry to Greenwich's historic sites and attractions.

Find more ideas and inspiration

Explore Greenwich Park

Climb the rigging of Cutty Sark

Enjoy a royal day out

See Greenwich's famous film and TV locations

Find more things to do

Choose your tickets.

• Explore the main deck
• Walk beneath the ship
• See how the crew lived
• Family activities and interactives
• Guaranteed entry time
• Audio guide included

• Royal Observatory
• Visit the Prime Meridian line
• See the best view in London
• Planetarium shows not included

National Maritime Museum

• Access to all free galleries and activities
• Special exhibitions free in 2024

Queen's House

• Historic house
• Internationally renowned art
• Stunning architecture
• Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I
• Free tours and audio guides

Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass

• Save 25% with combo ticket

Become a Member

• Unlimited entry all year
• Planetarium Shows
• Special exhibitions

WE ARE OPEN

Crown River Cruises Ltd are open for enquiries: read our service update .

Our sister company Thames River Services (TRS) runs daily sightseeing trips between Westminster Pier, St Katharine’s Pier and Greenwich Pier.

Between April and October, TRS has an additional loop from Greenwich to the Thames Barrier and back, enabling you to get a closer look at one of London’s modern icons.

If you want to make the most of a trip to London, it’s definitely worth taking the time to visit the borough of Greenwich. Popular with visitors, Greenwich is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a number of tourist attractions including the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum, the Old Royal Naval College, the Meridian Line in Greenwich Park, and Greenwich Market.

Greenwich has a great community feel, giving you the impression that you’re miles away from Central London, even though you’re just half an hour or so away by river from St Katharine’s Pier.

What to look out for:

1 Palace of Westminster

2 London Aquarium

3 London Dungeon

4 London Eye

5 Tate Modern

6 St Paul’s Cathedral

7 The Globe Theatre

8 Southwark Cathedral

9 HMS Belfast

10 City Hall

11 The Tower of London

12 Tower Bridge

13 Canary Wharf

14 Cutty Sark

15 Greenwich Foot Tunnel North Entrance

16 Greenwich Foot Tunnel South Entrance

17 Old Royal Naval College

19 Emirates Airline Cable Car

20 Thames Barrier

For a delightful and relaxing way of travelling between the South Bank and Greenwich, sit back and enjoy the view on Thames River Services boats. Our service runs all year round and our boats have heated lounges with panoramic windows, so you know you’ll have a great time whatever the weather. Visit the TRS website for more information and to book your tickets.

Quick links

Crown River Cruises Ltd Office Address Tower Millennium Pier Lower Thames Street London EC3N 4DT Crown River Cruises Ltd Crown Pier Address Victoria Embankment London EC4Y 0HJ

0207 936 2033 [email protected]

© 2024 Crown River Cruises Ltd | Terms | Cookies & Privacy | VAT No: 451-0350-94 | Registered Address: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames Street, London EC3N 4DT | Registered Address: 12 Gleneagles Court, Brighton Road, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 6AD | Company Registration Number: 1980680 | Web design by Cariad Marketing

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More currencies, london sightseeing cruise: westminster to greenwich.

Enjoy a scenic journey through the heart of London from Westminster on this River Thames sightseeing cruise. See famed monuments like Tower Bridge.

Trade the hustle and bustle of London's streets for a serene fixed route cruise along the River Thames with City Cruises, from Westminster to Greenwich.

Choose between a one-way or round-trip cruise and enjoy the city's iconic landmarks gliding past your window, viewing London from a unique vantage point.

As you glide past Tower Bridge marvel at how the old blends seamlessly with the new, like Shakespeare’s Globe standing proudly near the modern London Eye.

Get the inside scoop on London's landmarks with the multilingual WiFi-enabled audio guide and discover a whole new side to London.

Did you know? The Thames provides around two-thirds of London's drinking water supply.

One-way or round-trip River Thames sightseeing cruise (as per option selected)

WiFi audio guide (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin)

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Your experience

A scenic journey awaits.

Hop aboard the River Thames sightseeing cruise for a fun and informative trip through London. Your cruise begins at Westminster and ends at Greenwich, and you get the option to choose between one-way and round-trip tickets. Get cozy in the comfortable seats with big windows or enjoy the fresh air on the open deck. As the boat sets off, you'll be treated to stunning views of London's skyline, with each turn of the river revealing another famous landmark.

Discover London’s rich heritage

During the cruise, use the WiFi audio guide available in 6 languages to hear fascinating stories and historical facts. You'll pass under the impressive Tower Bridge and see the historic Tower of London, rich with tales of royalty. Marvel at the Houses of Parliament and the iconic Big Ben. Glide by Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the modern marvel of the London Eye. It's a great chance to snap photos and soak in the sights.

Know before you go

What to bring.

• Don't forget to bring your smartphone to access the live audio commentary and enhance your cruise experience.

Accessibility

• This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.

Additional information

• Please note that the exact cruise times might vary, so double-check before you set sail.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point (either of the 3 piers)

Please arrive 10-15 minutes before the start time of your tour to avoid any delays

Boarding point

Board your cruise at Westminster Pier, Boarding point B

Address - Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2JH, United Kingdom

Get directions to the Boarding point

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Sightseeing Cruise on the River Thames | City Cruises™

Choose your ticket type.

Return Ticket With a return ticket you can go one way, take in some of the sights around the pier and then take the same route back.

Westminster/London Eye ↔ Greenwich

Westminster/london eye ↔ tower or tower ↔ greenwich, how much does a thames river cruise cost.

Our tickets vary in price depending on your ticket type as well as where and when you’re travelling. Click here to see London River cruise prices .

How long do Thames River sightseeing cruises take?

The duration for a Thames river cruise depends on what route you take. Thames cruises vary from 10-30 minutes for a single trip or up to 24 hours of river travel with a 24-hr river pass. See full details on the timetable here .

Where do Thames River sightseeing cruises stop?

Our Thames Cruises stop and allow for embarking and disembarking at four piers – Westminster Pier , London Eye Pier , Tower Pier and Greenwich Pier . Find out more about where to find our piers here .

Where can I find a timetable?

Click here to find London River cruise timetables .

Click here to see all Thames sightseeing cruise FAQs.

How long is a Thames River cruise from Westminster to Greenwich?

The duration of Thames River cruise from Westminster to Greenwich is 1hr 20 minutes.

Where can you start a Thames sightseeing cruise?

You can start your Thames sightseeing cruise from Tower , Westminster , London Eye and Greenwich pier.

What do you wear for a Thames sightseeing cruise?

There is no dress code for a Thames sightseeing cruise, casual clothes and depending on the weather maybe something warm.

Are there toilets on a Thames River cruise?

Yes, on a Thames River cruise, all our boats have toilet facilities and have baby changing and disabled facilities.

Can you purchase snacks on board a Thames sightseeing cruise?

On board a Thames sightseeing cruise we have a fully stocked bar with seasonal snacks and serve hot and cold drinks.

Do you have to book a Thames sightseeing cruise?

Generally, for a Thames sightseeing cruise you don’t have to book that far in advance but to beat the queues at the piers you can book your tickets online.

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River Thames Sightseeing Cruise Tickets

Select Your Experience

City Cruises Sightseeing Cruise on River Thames

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Craving for a fresh perspective of London? Cruise its iconic River Thames and see its famous landmarks to see the city in a new light.
• With departures every 20 to 40 minutes from four prime locations, and live commentary in multiple languages, embark on a tour that suits you.
• Capture the majestic Houses of Parliament, the historic Tower of London, the lively South Bank, and culturally rich Greenwich in your lens as you sail.
• Onboard, relish the open-air deck during sunny days or the heated indoor saloon during chills. Concessions are available, including a fully stocked bar.
• Choose between a hop-on-hop-off ticket for spontaneous adventures or a one-way or round-trip sightseeing ticket.
• Sightseeing cruise on the River Thames
• Hop-on-hop-off sightseeing ticket (based on option selected) (view route and timetable here )
• One-way or round-trip flexible sightseeing ticket (based on option selected)
• Live English commentary
• Audio guide in English, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Vietnamese and Spanish
• Open-air deck & heated indoor saloon
• Access to the onboard bar (at an additional cost)
• Tip: While passing the Tower of London, keep an eye out for the Traitors' Gate. It was used to transport prisoners into the tower!
• This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
• The cruise is equipped with restrooms and baby changing facilities.
• With the 24-hour hop-on hop-off ticket, you're in complete control. Start your boating adventure anytime and enjoy unlimited rides until the boats stop operating for the evening. The next day, you can continue using your ticket until its validity expires.

London Sightseeing Cruise: Westminster to Greenwich

• Hop on this Thames cruise by Thames River Sightseeing Cruise and see London’s iconic sights like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
• Choose between live English commentary or WiFi audio guides available in 6 languages. Learn fascinating facts and stories that bring London to life.
• Whether you prefer a one-way trip or a round trip, enjoy more time onboard and make the most of your Thames cruise experience.
• Pick the perfect drop-point for your adventure—either Tower Bridge or Greenwich, whichever suits you best!
• Sail past Shakespeare's Globe, Tate Modern, and the Tower of London. Each landmark has its own captivating story waiting to be discovered.
• One-way or round-trip River Thames sightseeing cruise (as per option selected)
• WiFi audio guide (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin)
• Tip: If you are booking a one-way cruise to Greenwich, take out some time to explore Greenwich Market.
• Don't forget to bring your smartphone to access the live audio commentary and enhance your cruise experience.
• Please note that the exact cruise times might vary, so double-check before you set sail.

Thames River Evening Cruise with Sunset Views, Sparking Wine & Canapés

• Enjoy a 2-hour cruise on the Thames during the sunset, which offers the city's best views at the best times of the day.
• Check out the city's prominent landmarks from the water including the London Eye, Big Ben, London Bridge, and more.
• Relish a selection of delicious canapes and sparkling wine as you relax on the Thames evening cruise.
• Head indoors and witness the breathtaking cityscape while enjoying a live pop, rock, swing, or funk performance.
• 2-hour evening cruise on the Thames
• Sparkling wine or soft drink on arrival
• A selection of cold canapés served throughout the evening
• Live music performances on board
• Additional drinks
• Transport to and from the pier
• Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for Southbank where you'll get to see the famous Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.
• Wear smart casual attire, and carry a windcheater as it gets pretty windy and chilly on the river.
• Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 13 years.
• Keep in mind outside food and drinks are not allowed in this experience. Pack wisely!
• This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
• The staff can cater vegetarian food but are unable to cater to any other allergens or dietary requirements on this cruise.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Thames River Hop-On Hop-Off Uber Boat Tour

• Soak in the best sights of London as you travel on the River Thames by boat.
• With over 18 piers across London and a fleet of 20 boats departing from Putney Pier in the west to Woolwich Royal Arsenal in the east, plan a hassle-free itinerary.
• Navigate through the city safely and comfortably as your cruise past London’s best attractions.
• Choose between a single river journey on the Thames or a River Roamer hop-on hop-off pass.
• Some of the iconic sites you’ll see are the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Bridge, the London Eye, the Oxo Building, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Single River Journey on the Thames

• Valid for a single journey between any two piers included
• Service between 19 piers across London
• One-way boat transfer
• Air-conditioned vessel

River Roamer: Hop On Hop Off Pass

• All-day hop-on-hop-off pass (valid from 6am until the end of service on the same day)
• Service between 24 piers across London
• Air-conditioned boats
• Food and drinks (both available to purchase onboard from the fully licensed bar)
• Hotel transfers

Weekday Westbound

• First cruise: 6:25am from Barking Riverside
• Last cruise: 9:20pm from Barking Riverside
• Frequency: every 30 mins

Weekday Eastbound

• First cruise: 6:30am from Putney
• Last cruise: 10:25pm from Putney
• Frequency: every 20 mins

Weekend Westbound

• First cruise: 8:10am from Barking Riverside
• Last cruise: 8:40pm from Barking Riverside

Weekend Eastbound

• First cruise: 10:02am from Putney
• Last cruise: 11:10pm from Putney

Please here for the detailed route map.

• Tip: Opt for a cruise from March to October for the best weather.
• Facilities: Wheelchair accessibility, Pram/stroller accessibility
• You can bring a guide/assistance dog on board with you without charge.

Combo (Save 10%): London Eye Tickets + Thames River Cruise

• Save money and see London's must-sees with this combo ticket. Ride the London Eye and cruise the Thames River to see the city from two angles.
• Reach heights of 135 meters high on a 30-minute London Eye ride. Upgrade for fast-track access and skip past the long queues!
• Keep your eyes peeled for some famous sights of London, like The Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal FC, and the majestic Buckingham Palace.
• Swap the concrete jungle for the River Thames on a 40-min cruise, gliding past landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
• Hear tales of royalty, rebellions, and architectural marvels as you sail from the onboard live commentary or multilingual audio guide.
• Standard entry to the London Eye
• 30-min ride on the London Eye
• London Eye guide
• Fast-track entry to the London Eye (optional)

River Cruise

• 40-min Thames River cruise
• English-speaking guide
• Audio guide in English, French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Italian, Czech, Hindi, Polish, and Portuguese
• British sign language guide on deck
• Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)
• Tip: After your London Eye ride, visit the Jubilee Gardens nearby to see a variety of insects like butterflies and ladybugs.
• Keep in mind large bags, sharp metallic tools, or objects that can cause security hazards are not allowed in this experience. Pack wisely!
• Children under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by adults.
• Children under the age of 2 years can go for free but require a ticket to enter.
• Guests with accessible needs are entitled to a free carer ticket with valid documentation.
• Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
• Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
• Tip: As you cruise past Butler's Wharf, be sure to look out for colorful murals adorning the warehouses, a haven for local street art.

River Thames sightseeing cruise | A journey down London's liquid lifeline

What better way to describe London, if not an enchanted forest? If you stand anywhere in the middle of the city and do a 360-degree spin, you’ll see the burg don a different attire at every angle - a cloak of dreams, a motley of royalty, a gown of beauty and so much more.

In Ralph McTell’s words,

“So how can you tell me you’re lonely, And say for you that the sun don’t shine? Let me take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of London. I'll show you something to make you change your mind”

That’s exactly what a sightseeing cruise of the Thames River offers! Instead of the streets, you’ll be cruising down London’s artery. Encounter the city’s proud landmarks such as the London Eye, Big Ben, National Theatre, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, and more, dotting its shore, all in the span of a few hours!

What are you looking for?

So, sightseeing on the Thames? Got you! Just click on the links below to jump straight to what you're interested in, on your River Thames sightseeing cruise. This guide is all about you, so take your time reading through it to make the best decision!

• Which sightseeing cruise is right for you?
• Thames sightseeing cruise route map

Which seat is best for you?

• Other cruise options
• London must-see attractions on a Thames cruise
• 6 famous bridges to spot on your cruise
• Tips for your sightseeing cruise
• Frequently Asked Questions about Thames sightseeing cruises

Which Thames sightseeing cruise is the right one for you?

• Cruise : River Thames Sightseeing Cruise: From Westminster
• Starting from: €15.80
• Boarding point: Find on Maps
• Sights and attractions:  Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Palace of Westminster, Lambeth Palace, Chelsea Royal Hospital, The Shard, Tower Bridge (from a distance). You won't see much of East London or the riverside areas.

⭐ Most popular

• Cruise : Uber Boat By Thames Clippers Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in London
• Starting from: €10.25
• Sights and attractions:  Putney Bridge, Kew Gardens, London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, Thames Barrier (the world's second-largest movable flood barrier) & more. Those interested in downtown London's sites may find this journey too long.

💵 Pocket friendly

Thames sightseeing cruise | Route map

Get a sound understanding of what attractions you can see and what pier is best and the most convenient for you using this map.

Most cruise boats have both indoor and outdoor seating with two-by-two seats.

For the best selfie spots, pick an outdoor seat for uninterrupted views and perfect photo sessions if you don't mind the somewhat harsh weather. However, it's a good idea to wear clothes that dry quickly if you fear you might get wet.

If you are picking an indoor seat, pick a window seat, especially if you are traveling solo, for a great view. Indoor seats are also great if you think it may rain but still want to go on a cruise. These indoor spaces are also heated and most cruise boats are equipped with a full-licensed bar.

Want more options?

Combine sightseeing with lunch, afternoon tea, or an evening pre-dinner meal! As you cruise down the heart of London, enjoy a savory British spread while listening to your audio guide letting you in on interesting facts and stories about the beautiful attractions dotting the skyline.

Thames River lunch cruise

• Food:  A set lunch menu or buffet with a variety of options
• Ambiance:  Can be casual or semi-formal, depending on the company
• Who should go:  Great for those who want a scenic lunch experience while sightseeing. Ideal for families or groups who want a fulfilling meal.

Thames River Afternoon Tea cruise

• Food:  Traditional afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, clotted cream, pastries, and unlimited tea or coffee
• Ambiance:  Relaxed and elegant
• Who should go:  Perfect for those who want a quintessentially British experience with charming views. Ideal for celebrations or a relaxing afternoon outing.

Thames River evening cruise

• Food:  Light canapés and drinks depending on the cruise
• Ambiance:  Romantic or lively, depending on the cruise
• Who should go:  Good for couples seeking a romantic dinner with a view, or friends looking for an evening out with scenic city lights and entertainment (live music, DJs).

London from the water | Must-sees on a Thames cruise

The Houses of Parliament (Right Bank)

6 most famous bridges you can see on the River Thames sightseeing cruise

This is undoubtedly the most iconic bridge in London. Built in 1894, it's known for its twin towers, Gothic Revival architecture, and bascules (the middle section that raises to allow large ships to pass). You can even walk across the walkways high above the Thames for stunning views!

Blackfriars Bridge

This bridge holds historical significance. First built in Roman times, the current version dates back to the late 18th century. It's known for its elegant design with five elliptical arches and its artistic connections - featuring statues of famous figures like William Shakespeare and Queen Victoria.

Westminster Bridge

Opened in 1862, it's the first major wrought-iron Thames bridge known for its seven arches and its lamp standards designed by famous gas engineer Isambard Kingdom Brune. You can see it on all three cruises. Its green color is said to match the leather seats in the House of Commons, located nearby.

Waterloo Bridge

This is the longest of the central London bridges, spanning the Thames at a whopping 1,230 feet. Opened in 1817, it played a significant role in the Battle of Waterloo, hence the name. It was also the first bridge across the Thames to be lit by gas lamps.

Lambeth Bridge

This suspension bridge is known for its classy design and eight massive towers. Opened in 1862, it replaced an earlier ferry service and offered a crucial north-south link across the river. Lambeth Bridge is a popular spot for film and television appearances.

London Bridge

Despite its name, Tower Bridge isn't the most famous one in London (often confused with Tower Bridge). The first bridge on this site was built by the Romans in the 1st century AD! The current bridge, opened in 1971, is a modern concrete and steel structure. You can see it on the hop-on hop-off cruise.

Tips if you are planning to get on a Thames sightseeing cruise

Cruise when the weather's bad!

Ever thought about enjoying London's views when the weather's at its worst? Sounds a bit wild, but hear us out! Imagine this: grey skies, maybe a drizzle and the London skyline shrouded in the gloomy 'gram-worthy natural filter! Perfect, right? Grab your raincoat, head to the waterfront, and hop on a sightseeing cruise. And here's the kicker – sit on the top deck! Sure, it's not the coziest spot, but it's worth it.

Why? Because no one else in their right mind would be up there in such weather. You could have the whole top deck to yourself, perfect for some quality 'me time'. Sounds blissful, doesn't it?

Use your travel card wisely

Got a travel card for your London adventure? Flash it when you buy your cruise ticket. Those cruises aren't just for tourists; commuters use them too. So, you'll save some cash. Every penny counts, especially in pricey London.

Pick a weekday

Simple math here: weekdays = fewer people. While the city buzzes with life, lots of folks are stuck at work or school. So, if you can, aim for a weekday cruise: less crowd, more peace.

Start from Greenwich or Westminster

For the ultimate Thames experience, start from either end. We'd recommend Greenwich. It's bustling but not as crazy as Westminster. Plus, you can check out some cool sights before boarding. And if you time it right (i.e., tip 1!), you might have the top deck all to yourself.

Snap perfect photos

One word: photos! River Thames sightseeing cruises offer awesome photo ops without the crowd combat. Say goodbye to photobombers ruining your shots of Big Ben or the London Eye. Plus, you get unique angles and views you won't get on foot.

"Another time"

Not only do you get killer views, but you also get a guided tour. Learn about the buildings, bridges, and districts as you cruise the Thames. Fun facts included! Like, did you know Ian McKellen co-owns The Grapes pub? And that man you see, standing in the middle of the River? Nope, not Jesus. That's a statue (named Another Time ) created by the famous curator Antony Gormley. It is also rumored that Sir Ian McKellen owns it!

Wear comfortable clothing

The dress code on most Thames cruises is smart casual attire. However, feel free to dress more formally for any special occasion. Choose comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. It's also advisable to dress in layers as London's weather can be quite unpredictable. This way you can add on more layers if the weather gets chilly. Don't forget hats and sunscreen if you opt for a cruise during the day, especially in the summer. You may also want to carry a small bag for your sunscreen, water bottles, and camera.

Frequently Asked Questions about River Thames sightseeing cruises

There are two types of sightseeing cruises available. One is a one-way or round-trip cruise on the River Thames, while the other is a Hop-on Hop-off cruise, offering the flexibility of getting on or off at any of the 19 piers available.

Thames sightseeing cruises are extremely easy on the pocket. At only €10.25, you can hop on and off at any of the piers near numerous famous London attractions. Audio commentary, wheelchairs, and other facilities are also provided on board.

While food is not included in the ticket price, a wide range of delectable English cuisine is available for purchase onboard.

Choose the hop-on hop-off cruise if you want the most flexibility, want to explore a wider range of areas along the Thames, and have a full day to spend sightseeing. Choose the sightseeing cruise from Westminster if you're on a budget and want a concise tour focused on central London's most iconic sights, with a close-up view of Tower Bridge.

You can see the following London attractions and more: Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the London Eye, Palace of Westminster, Lambeth Palace, Chelsea Royal Hospital, The Shard, Tower Bridge (from a distance), Cutty Sark (historic tea clipper ship), Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum, etc.

Peak season (June-August): If you're visiting during peak summer months, booking a day or two in advance is recommended, especially for weekend cruises. This ensures you get a spot on your preferred cruise time. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October): During these times, it's usually safe to book the day before or even on the day of the cruise, especially for weekday cruises. However, if there's a specific route or time you have your heart set on, booking a day in advance might be a good idea for peace of mind. Off-season (November-March): The Thames cruises operate year-round, but during the off-season, they tend to have less frequent departures. Booking online a day in advance is still recommended to confirm availability and secure your spot, especially if you're traveling during weekdays when there might be fewer departures.

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Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment. London, SW1A 2JH

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Tootnskamen 40th Anniversary Thames Cruise Party

Celebrate 40 years of Tootnskamen with a fun-filled Thames cruise party! Toots LIVE on stage at 8pm.

Date and time

Greenwich Pier

Refund Policy

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Boarding Woolwich Pier - Meet the band!

Onboard bar OPEN! Relax and enjoy your exclusive view of London

8:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Tootnskamen LIVE

11:00 PM - 11:15 PM

Disembark Woolwich Pier

About this event

Date: Saturday, June 21st, 2025

Location: Greenwich Pier

Come celebrate 40 years of Tootnskamen with a fabulous Thames Cruise Party ! Get ready for an evening filled with music, dancing, plenty of alcohol and breathtaking views of London's iconic landmarks. Join us on the River Thames for a night to remember as we toast to four decades of fun and memories. Don't miss out on this very special gig!

• United Kingdom Events
• Greater London Events
• Things to do in London
• London Parties
• London Travel & Outdoor Parties
• #40thanniversary
• #tootnskamen

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