River Thames

London's defining waterway, flowing past 2,000 years of history and the world's most iconic landmarks.

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River Thames

The River Thames flows through the heart of London for 215 miles, serving as the city's defining geographical and cultural spine. This iconic waterway passes some of the world's most recognizable landmarks—from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben to Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and St. Paul's Cathedral. Whether experienced by scenic river cruise, riverside walk, or observation from famous bridges, the Thames offers unparalleled views of centuries of architectural heritage, from medieval fortresses to contemporary glass towers. The river remains both a working shipping lane and London's greatest natural attraction.

A brief summary to River Thames

GB
Duration: 1.5 to 8 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

Time your visit to Tower Bridge to coincide with a bridge lift, when the two great bascules impressively rise to allow shipping to pass through. Check online for lift times before heading there.
Experience the Thames from multiple perspectives: walk the riverside paths, take a scenic river cruise with hop-on/hop-off access at Westminster, London Eye, Tower Bridge, or Greenwich, or ride the London Eye for panoramic views.
Visit Greenwich Park for obligatory photos at the Prime Meridian with one foot on each side of the zero-degree longitude line, then explore the Royal Observatory, National Maritime Museum, and Cutty Sark nearby.
Explore the free viewing gallery on the eighth floor of the OXO Tower for spectacular views across the north bank without purchasing a meal, or dine at its restaurant for Mediterranean cuisine with 800+ wines.
Look closely at the bollards along the Victoria Embankment—they are rumoured to be forged from French cannons captured during the Napoleonic Wars, adding an unexpected layer of history to your riverside walk.

Getting There

River Cruise

Thames river cruises operate from multiple piers including Westminster, London Eye, Tower Bridge, and Greenwich. Hop-on/hop-off services allow 24-hour access with individual pier-to-pier trips taking approximately 40 minutes (except Westminster to London Eye, which is 10 minutes). Full round-trip duration exceeds 2 hours. Cruises operate daily with varying schedules; afternoon tea and fine dining options are available on select services. Prices typically range from £15–£35 per person for standard sightseeing cruises, with premium dining experiences costing £50–£150 or more.
Riverside Walking Path

The Thames Path is a continuous walking route along both banks of the river through central London. Access is free and available year-round. The path is well-maintained with clear signage, connecting major landmarks from Westminster to Greenwich and beyond. Walking duration varies by section: Westminster to Tower Bridge takes approximately 45 minutes; Tower Bridge to Greenwich adds another 60–90 minutes. The path is accessible to pedestrians of all abilities, though some sections may be crowded during peak hours.
London Underground and Bus

Multiple Underground stations provide direct access to Thames landmarks: Westminster (District, Circle, Jubilee lines) for Parliament and Westminster Bridge; Embankment (District, Circle, Northern lines) for central riverside; Tower Hill (District, Circle lines) for Tower of London and Tower Bridge; London Bridge (Northern, Jubilee lines) for Southwark and Borough Market; Greenwich (Jubilee line) for Greenwich attractions. Bus routes 15, 87, and others run along the Thames. Single journeys cost £1.75 (off-peak) to £2.80 (peak); Oyster cards and contactless payment offer better rates.
Private Boat Hire

Private boat rentals are available for celebrations, corporate events, or personal sightseeing tours, offering flexibility and exclusivity. Operators provide vessels ranging from small speedboats to larger party boats with catering options. Rental prices vary significantly based on vessel size, duration, and season, typically ranging from £300–£2,000+ for 2–4 hour charters. Advance booking is essential, particularly during peak tourist seasons (May–September). Most operators require a valid skipper's license or provision of a licensed operator.

River Thames location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about River Thames

A River Through Time

The River Thames has shaped London's destiny for over two millennia. At 215 miles long, it flows through nine English counties before reaching the sea, but it is the 30-mile stretch through London that defines the city's character and history. The river divides London between North and South, creating natural boundaries that have influenced urban development, commerce, and culture since Roman times. Medieval palaces once lined its banks—Whitehall Palace, once Europe's largest, stood near Westminster until its destruction by fire in 1698, while Tudor Greenwich Palace, birthplace of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, shaped the course of English history. Today, these lost palaces exist only in memory, yet their stories remain as compelling as any modern landmark.

Engineering Marvels Spanning the Water

The Thames is spanned by numerous bridges, each a testament to different eras of engineering and design. Tower Bridge, completed in 1894, stands as the most iconic, its Victorian Gothic towers and bascule mechanism making it a symbol recognized worldwide. At 244 metres long and painted with 22,000 litres of paint, it is crossed by 40,000 people daily and remains one of the most photographed structures on Earth. Westminster Bridge, the oldest road bridge in central London, offers the quintessential view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament—a composition so perfect it has become the visual definition of London itself. Richmond Bridge, built between 1774 and 1777, is the oldest surviving Thames bridge in Greater London, its 18th-century stone arches still carrying traffic across the river. Each bridge tells its own story: Hammersmith Bridge, designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette, has served as a crucial waypoint on the Oxford and Cambridge University Boat Race route since 1887, while Putney Bridge has hosted the same annual race since 1845.

Landmarks of Power and Culture

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben dominate the north bank near Westminster, their sand-coloured limestone visible from miles around. Built between 1840 and 1870, the Palace of Westminster comprises the House of Commons, House of Lords, and Westminster Hall. Big Ben, technically the name of the 13-ton bell inside Elizabeth Tower, has stood for over 150 years as one of London's most iconic symbols. Across the river, the London Eye rises 443 feet into the sky, offering unobstructed panoramic views of the Thames and central London from its 32 glass capsules. On clear days, visitors can see 40 miles across the city, including glimpses of Buckingham Palace in the distance. Cultural institutions line the banks with equal prominence. Tate Modern, housed in the former Bankside Power Station designed by Giles Gilbert Scott, showcases modern and contemporary art and ranks among the UK's top three attractions. Its sixth-floor restaurant offers spectacular views of St. Paul's Cathedral's famous dome. Nearby, Shakespeare's Globe provides insight into the life and works of William Shakespeare and London during the early 1600s, while the OXO Tower commands views across to the north bank and serves Mediterranean cuisine with an extensive wine selection. Borough Market, one of London's oldest food markets, offers sensory immersion in sights, smells, and colours that have attracted traders and visitors for centuries.

Military Heritage and Maritime History

The Thames preserves London's military past through living monuments. HMS Belfast, a World War II battlecruiser and Korean War veteran, sits nobly in the water between London and Tower Bridges as part of the Imperial War Museum. One of only three bombardment vessels to survive D-Day, it offers visitors the chance to explore a working warship and experience life at sea during history's defining conflicts. The Tower of London, one of the city's oldest and most revered landmarks, guards the river with Traitor's Gate—an infamous water-gate entrance originally designed for King Edward I in the 1270s. Though intended as a royal arrival point, it became notorious as the entrance through which prisoners accused of treason were brought to face execution. Downstream at Greenwich, the Thames reveals layers of maritime significance. The Royal Observatory marks the Prime Meridian, the zero-degree line of longitude from which the world measures time. The Cutty Sark, one of the fastest tea clippers ever built, sits preserved in dry dock as a testament to the age of sail. The Old Royal Naval College, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, displays architectural grandeur that has served as a backdrop for countless films, from The Golden Compass to Les Misérables. The National Maritime Museum and the recently restored Queen's House complete Greenwich's role as a repository of Britain's naval heritage.

Modern Transformation and Hidden Details

The Thames continues to evolve, with historic industrial sites undergoing dramatic transformation. Battersea Power Station, after decades of neglect, is being reimagined as a mixed-use development, while the Thames Barrier—a modern flood defence system protecting London from aggressive tides and storm surges—has emerged as an unexpected work of art in its own right. Along the Victoria Embankment, ordinary-looking bollards reveal hidden history: they are rumoured to have been forged from French cannons captured during the Napoleonic Wars, small but powerful reminders of London's historic resilience.

A Living Waterway

The Thames remains a working river and major shipping lane, not merely a historical monument. Its banks have been revitalized with riverside walks, markets, and public spaces that make the water accessible to all. From St. Katharine Docks, where boats in the marina evoke seaside charm, to Gabriel's Wharf with its eclectic shops and galleries, the river has become a destination in itself. Whether viewed from a scenic river cruise with informative commentary, from the heights of the London Eye, or from a riverside stroll, the Thames offers an ever-changing perspective on London's past, present, and future.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Virgin Experience Days

1.9 km

Uncover unique gifts and memorable experiences at Virgin Experience Days in Bourne End, a must-visit for every tourist seeking adventure.

Maidenhead Railway Bridge

4.7 km

A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, Maidenhead Railway Bridge showcases Brunel’s groundbreaking design with its iconic flat brick arches spanning the Thames.

Burning Bush

9.8 km

A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.

Sydney Camm Memorial

10.2 km

A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.

Windsor Martyrs' Memorial

10.6 km

A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.

Bronze Plaque № 10828

10.6 km

A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.

The Curfew Tower

10.7 km

Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.

Queen Victoria Statue

10.8 km

A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.

H. G. Wells White Plaque

10.8 km

Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.

Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque

10.8 km

A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.

Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque

King Edward III Tower

10.9 km

Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.

Windsor Castle Quadrangle

10.9 km

The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.

The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)

11.0 km

Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.

The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)

Ancient well

11.0 km

A humble medieval water source steeped in Windsor's royal heritage and local legend.

Soldier's Statue

11.0 km

A solemn tribute to Irish Guardsmen, this statue in Windsor honors military service amidst a rich historic townscape.

Unmissable attractions to see

Cliveden House

0.7 km

A storied Italianate mansion overlooking the Thames, where centuries of glamour and intrigue unfold across 376 acres of magnificent gardens.

National Trust - Cliveden

0.8 km

Explore Cliveden’s majestic gardens, historic house, and woodlands on a grand Thames Valley estate rich in heritage and natural beauty.

The Stanley Spencer Gallery

1.0 km

Discover the world’s largest collection of Stanley Spencer’s art in the charming village that inspired his visionary works.

Cock Marsh

2.1 km

Discover Cock Marsh, a tranquil riverside nature reserve blending rare wildlife habitats with ancient Bronze Age burial mounds in scenic Berkshire.

Odds Farm Park

2.6 km

Discover hands-on animal encounters, outdoor adventures, and giant indoor play at Odds Farm Park, a family favorite near High Wycombe.

Ray Mill Island

3.2 km

Discover peaceful riverside walks, wildlife, and family-friendly charm at Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead’s scenic Thames corridor.

Boulters Lock

3.4 km

Historic Thames lock and serene riverside gardens offering scenic boat watching, wildlife, and a vibrant pub atmosphere in Maidenhead.

Maidenhead Heritage Centre

4.9 km

Explore Maidenhead’s rich local history and wartime aviation legacy at the welcoming Heritage Centre on Park Street.

Marlow Lock

5.2 km

Historic lock and weir on the River Thames offering scenic riverside walks and a glimpse into centuries of river navigation heritage.

Grenfell Park

5.3 km

A historic community park in Maidenhead with playgrounds, sports courts, outdoor gym, café, and scenic green spaces for all ages.

Higginson Park

5.7 km

A vibrant riverside park in Marlow offering family fun, leisure sports, scenic river views, and year-round community events.

Higginson Park and Court Garden Leisure Complex

5.7 km

A historic riverside park in Marlow blending natural beauty, leisure facilities, and family-friendly activities along the iconic Thames Path.

Higginson Park and Court Garden Leisure Complex

Marlow Museum

5.7 km

Discover Marlow’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits and passionate volunteer storytelling in a charming riverside setting.

Braywick Nature Centre

6.3 km

Discover Braywick Nature Centre, a peaceful haven blending heritage, wildlife, and immersive environmental learning in the heart of Maidenhead.

Bekonscot Model Village & Railway

6.5 km

Step into the world’s oldest model village and railway, where 1930s rural England comes alive in exquisite miniature detail across 1.5 acres of gardens.

Essential places to dine

The Cliveden Dining Room

0.7 km

Experience refined British fine dining in the historic grandeur of Cliveden House, set amidst breathtaking gardens near London.

The Ivy Marlow Garden

5.7 km

Elegant British dining with Art Deco charm and a diverse menu on Marlow's historic High Street, perfect for special occasions and leisurely meals.

Bespoke Restaurants

5.8 km

Elegant dining in Beaconsfield’s historic Old Rectory, where bespoke cuisine meets timeless charm.

Vanilla Pod

5.9 km

Cozy Anglo-French dining in historic Marlow, blending refined flavors with literary heritage and exceptional service.

The Waterside Inn

6.0 km

Experience timeless French haute cuisine and riverside elegance at The Waterside Inn, Bray’s iconic three-Michelin-starred restaurant and hotel.

The Hinds Head

6.1 km

A Michelin-starred British pub in Bray blending traditional charm with Heston Blumenthal’s innovative culinary artistry.

The Fat Duck

6.2 km

Experience a groundbreaking, theatrical tasting journey at The Fat Duck, where culinary science meets nostalgic storytelling in a historic Bray inn.

King & Lamb Restaurant

8.4 km

Elegant British dining in a historic country house setting with superb roasts, vegan options, and a tranquil garden atmosphere.

The Restaurant at Danesfield House

9.0 km

Elegant British dining in a historic country house with stunning views of the Thames and Chiltern Hills near Marlow.

GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant

9.3 km

South African-inspired dining with stunning marina views at Windsor Racecourse Marina, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.

The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse

9.3 km

Experience luxury dining with panoramic racecourse views at The Castle Restaurant, where thrilling horse racing meets elegant cuisine in Windsor.

The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse

The Greene Oak

9.5 km

A charming Windsor gastropub blending traditional British pub warmth with seasonal, market-fresh cuisine and stylish dining.

The Three Oaks

10.2 km

A Michelin Bib Gourmand gastropub blending modern British cuisine with Asian flair in a charming Tudor-style setting.

Test Kitchen Food

10.3 km

Innovative, fresh, and vibrant dining at Windsor’s Test Kitchen Food in a unique brewery tap setting.

Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse

10.4 km

Elegant modern British dining and boutique lodging in the heart of historic Eton, just steps from Windsor Castle.

Discover relaxed glamour and timeless women's fashion at Mint Velvet Windsor, your stylish boutique in Windsor Royal Shopping Centre.

A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Diligence

6.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.

Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe

8.3 km

A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.

The Venue, Bucks

8.3 km

Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Boom

10.7 km

Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.

The Scotch

10.7 km

Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.

Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor

10.7 km

Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.

Pink Gentleman's Club.

10.8 km

Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.

Winkers Nightclub

11.7 km

A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.

The Binfield Club

16.1 km

Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.

3sixty

21.9 km

Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.

Q Club

22.5 km

Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.

Reading Lola Lo

22.7 km

Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.

Popworld - Reading

22.7 km

A vibrant pop-themed nightclub in Reading’s city centre, where retro beats meet neon-lit fun for unforgettable nights.

Gun Street Garden

22.8 km

Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.

Popworld Watford

22.9 km

A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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River Thames

A brief summary to River Thames

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

River Cruise

Riverside Walking Path

London Underground and Bus

Private Boat Hire

River Thames location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of River Thames

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about River Thames

A River Through Time

Engineering Marvels Spanning the Water

Landmarks of Power and Culture

Military Heritage and Maritime History

Modern Transformation and Hidden Details

A Living Waterway

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Virgin Experience Days

Maidenhead Railway Bridge

Burning Bush

Sydney Camm Memorial

Windsor Martyrs' Memorial

Bronze Plaque № 10828

The Curfew Tower

Queen Victoria Statue

H. G. Wells White Plaque

Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque

King Edward III Tower

Windsor Castle Quadrangle

The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)

Ancient well

Soldier's Statue

Unmissable attractions to see

Cliveden House

National Trust - Cliveden

The Stanley Spencer Gallery

Cock Marsh

Odds Farm Park

Ray Mill Island

Boulters Lock

Maidenhead Heritage Centre

Marlow Lock

Grenfell Park

Higginson Park

Higginson Park and Court Garden Leisure Complex

Marlow Museum

Braywick Nature Centre

Bekonscot Model Village & Railway

Essential places to dine

The Cliveden Dining Room

The Ivy Marlow Garden

Bespoke Restaurants

Vanilla Pod

The Waterside Inn

The Hinds Head

The Fat Duck

King & Lamb Restaurant

The Restaurant at Danesfield House

GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant

The Castle Restaurant at Royal Windsor Racecourse

The Greene Oak

The Three Oaks

Test Kitchen Food

Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Nicholsons Shopping Centre

John Lewis & Partners

Ruby Moon

Gifts Box

Purple Gifts

Wellington 1895 Antiques Windsor

Middle Ward Shop

Jigsaw

Windsor Yards

Piara