Westminster Pier: Gateway to London's Iconic River Adventures
Westminster Pier: Your prime gateway to iconic Thames river cruises and London's historic riverside landmarks.
Westminster Pier, located on the River Thames in central London, serves as a bustling ferry terminal and popular departure point for river sightseeing tours. Situated adjacent to the Houses of Parliament and near landmarks like Westminster Abbey and the London Eye, the pier offers stunning views and easy access to major attractions. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises that showcase London's historic skyline, making it an essential spot for exploring the city's riverside heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
A brief summary to Westminster Pier
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy views of the Boudicca statue before boarding your river cruise.
- Use Westminster Underground station (Exit 1) for the most convenient access to the pier.
- Consider a round-trip cruise to see multiple London landmarks from the river.
- Visit nearby attractions like Westminster Abbey and the London Eye for a full day of sightseeing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Westminster Station on the Jubilee, Circle, or District lines. Exit 1 leads directly to Westminster Pier. Travel time from central London stations ranges from 10 to 20 minutes with frequent service. Tickets cost approximately £2.50–£5 depending on zones.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes serve the Westminster area, including routes 11, 24, and 148. Bus stops near the pier provide frequent service, with journey times from central London around 20–30 minutes. A contactless Oyster card or Travelcard is recommended for fare payment.
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River Bus
Use the Thames Clippers river bus service to reach Westminster Pier from locations such as London Eye Pier or Tower Pier. Travel times vary from 10 to 25 minutes. Tickets range from £6 to £10 one-way, with contactless payment accepted. Services run regularly during the day but check schedules for evening or weekend variations.
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Walking
If staying nearby, Westminster Pier is accessible on foot from landmarks such as Westminster Abbey or the London Eye within 10–15 minutes. The riverside walk is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors, including those with mobility aids.
Westminster Pier location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Westminster Pier
Historic Heart of London’s Riverfront
Westminster Pier sits prominently on the north bank of the River Thames, directly beside the iconic Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster. This location places it at the epicenter of London’s political and cultural heritage. Overlooking the pier is the striking bronze statue of Boudicca and her daughters in a chariot, symbolizing fierce resistance and British history. The pier itself is a gateway to the river, serving as a major embarkation point for sightseeing cruises that navigate the Thames, offering unparalleled views of London’s historic landmarks.Gateway to Thames River Sightseeing
As the most popular starting point for Thames River Sightseeing tours, Westminster Pier connects visitors to a variety of destinations along the river. Cruises departing here travel to notable stops such as Greenwich and Tower Bridge, passing by landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard, Tate Modern, and the Globe Theatre. These boat tours provide a unique perspective on London’s architectural and cultural tapestry, combining leisure with education as passengers glide past centuries-old monuments and modern marvels.Proximity to World-Famous Attractions
Westminster Pier’s location offers immediate access to some of London’s most visited sites. Just a short walk away are Westminster Abbey, the Cabinet War Rooms, and the London Eye. Across Westminster Bridge, visitors find the London Aquarium and the London Dungeon, making the pier an ideal starting point for a full day of sightseeing. The area is steeped in history and bustling with activity, providing a vibrant atmosphere that blends the old and new.Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
The pier is fully accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs. It is well connected by public transport, with Westminster Underground station nearby and multiple bus routes serving the area. Although the pier itself is primarily a transit point, nearby amenities include seating areas and information boards to assist travelers. The riverside setting also offers scenic spots for relaxation and photography, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The pier’s surroundings reflect London’s rich architectural heritage, with the Gothic Revival style of the Houses of Parliament dominating the skyline. The juxtaposition of the historic palace with the modern riverboats highlights London’s dynamic evolution. Cultural events and river festivals often use Westminster Pier as a focal point, reinforcing its role as a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists.Engaging Riverfront Experience
Visitors to Westminster Pier can immerse themselves in the sensory delights of the Thames: the gentle lapping of water against the hulls of boats, the calls of river birds, and the panoramic vistas of London’s skyline. The pier acts as a lively meeting place where history, culture, and leisure converge, inviting exploration and discovery along one of the world’s most famous rivers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chindit Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
King Charles Street
0.2 km
Explore King Charles Street, a historic London government hub famed for its grand Victorian architecture and pivotal role in British political life.
Westminster Hall
0.2 km
Step into Westminster Hall, a majestic medieval masterpiece that has witnessed a millennium of British history, law, and monarchy.
The Cenotaph
0.2 km
Britain’s national war memorial in Whitehall, a solemn tribute to the fallen of the World Wars and later conflicts.
King Charles Street Arch
0.2 km
A grand 1908 triple-arched gateway in London’s Whitehall, rich in sculptural detail and historical significance.
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Oliver Cromwell, standing outside Westminster Hall as a symbol of Britain’s turbulent 17th-century history and contested legacy.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett Statue
0.3 km
Honoring Millicent Garrett Fawcett, the first woman commemorated in Parliament Square, inspiring equality through her iconic statue and legacy.
South Bank Lion
0.3 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
The Women of World War II
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Whitehall honoring over seven million British women’s vital roles during World War II.
County Hall
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
10 Downing Street
0.3 km
Iconic London residence and office of the UK Prime Minister, steeped in centuries of political history and power.
Statue of George V
0.3 km
A dignified white Portland stone statue honoring King George V, standing proudly in Westminster’s historic Old Palace Yard.
10 Downing St
0.4 km
Discover the historic seat of British leadership, where iconic moments and political power converge behind the famous black door.
Dover House
0.4 km
Historic neoclassical mansion on Whitehall, home to the Scotland Office with a unique rotunda entrance and rich aristocratic past.
His Majesty's Treasury
0.4 km
The historic and strategic heart of the UK government’s economic policy, located in the iconic government district of Westminster, London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Westminster Millennium Pier
0.0 km
Experience London's iconic riverfront from Westminster Millennium Pier, your gateway to historic landmarks and scenic Thames cruises.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
0.0 km
Experience the beauty of London from the water at Westminster Pier, your gateway to unforgettable Thames River adventures.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
0.1 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proud on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Big Ben
0.1 km
Explore Big Ben, London's iconic clock tower, a cultural landmark and symbol of British history, attracting millions of tourists each year.
Bridge St
0.1 km
Historic Bridge Street in London offers riverside views, rich heritage, and vibrant urban life beside the iconic London Bridge.
Westminster Bridge
0.1 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning views from Westminster Bridge, an iconic London landmark linking culture and architecture.
The Battle of Britain Monument
0.2 km
A powerful bronze and granite tribute on London’s Victoria Embankment honoring the heroic RAF pilots of the 1940 Battle of Britain.
Sir Winston Churchill statue
0.2 km
Iconic bronze statue of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, symbolizing British resilience and leadership during World War II.
Parliament Sq
0.2 km
Historic London square at the heart of British democracy, adorned with iconic statues and framed by world-famous landmarks.
Parliament Square Garden
0.2 km
A historic green oasis in Westminster, offering iconic views and monuments at the heart of London’s political heritage.
Palace of Westminster
0.2 km
Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Palace of Westminster, the iconic heart of British democracy in London.
The London Eye Millennium Pier
0.3 km
A modern riverside gateway beside the London Eye, connecting you to iconic London landmarks and vibrant Thames river journeys.
Memorial wall
0.3 km
A heartfelt 500-metre mural along the Thames commemorating every UK life lost to COVID-19 with over 245,000 hand-painted hearts.
Mahatma Gandhi statue
0.3 km
A dignified bronze tribute to Gandhi’s peaceful legacy, standing humbly among world leaders in the heart of London’s historic Parliament Square.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
0.3 km
Dive into London’s premier marine world with over 500 species, immersive underwater tunnels, and inspiring conservation efforts at SEA LIFE London Aquarium.
Essential places to dine
OKAN South Bank
0.4 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Troia Southbank
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.5 km
Stylish 4-star hotel on London’s South Bank with exceptional dining, event spaces, and modern amenities near iconic landmarks.
Ekstedt at The Yard
0.6 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
The Garden
0.6 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
The Northall
0.6 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.6 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
wagamama southbank
0.6 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
The Archduke
0.6 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Strada Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.7 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
The Pem
0.7 km
Elegant modern British dining in Westminster, honoring heritage with exquisite seasonal menus and refined ambiance.
Ma La Sichuan
0.7 km
Experience authentic, boldly spiced Sichuan cuisine in the heart of Westminster with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bustronome London
0.7 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.8 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Houses of Parliament Shop
0.2 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
0.2 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Browns of London
0.3 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.4 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Westminster Abbey Shop
0.4 km
Discover exclusive Abbey-inspired gifts and souvenirs that support Westminster Abbey’s heritage and conservation efforts.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.5 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.6 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
Crest of London Ltd
0.6 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
Gifts of London
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
The Giftree London
0.8 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Alice Through The Looking Glass
1.1 km
Step into a whimsical world of antiques, art, and literary treasures inspired by Alice in Wonderland in the heart of London’s Cecil Court.
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
1.1 km
London’s oldest family-run wine merchant since 1698, blending royal tradition with expert wine and spirits in a historic Pall Mall setting.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
1.1 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
Lock & Co. Hatters
1.1 km
Discover the world’s oldest hat shop, where centuries of British style and craftsmanship come to life in the heart of London.
Floral Street
1.1 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
0.2 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Le Champagne Bar
0.4 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Westminster Arms
0.4 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
Primo Bar, London
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.5 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
The Spy Bar
0.5 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.6 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Two Chairmen
0.6 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.6 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Old Shades
0.6 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Blue Boar Pub
0.6 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.7 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.7 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cirque Du Soul
0.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
0.5 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
0.5 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Heaven
0.7 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
TSQ Club
0.8 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Proud Late
1.0 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Tiger Tiger London
1.1 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.1 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Luxe Club
1.1 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Penthouse London
1.1 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Café de Paris
1.1 km
Step into London’s iconic West End nightclub where history, glamour, and electrifying cabaret create unforgettable nights.
The Scotch of St James
1.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.2 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
1.3 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
1.3 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
