Explore London by water with this handy Thames River route map

Map

Thames river cruise map

Welcome aboard! Explore London's iconic landmarks and hidden gems from the scenic vantage point of the River Thames. This guide provides a detailed map and information on various cruise routes to help you plan your perfect Thames River adventure.

Pick your Thames river cruise

River Thames Sightseeing Cruise: From Greenwich

Duration: 2 hours
Highlights: Engaging commentary, iconic monuments, round-trip option
Departure times: Available daily from 10:30am to 6pm
Route: Westminster Pier to Greenwich Pier
Notable landmarks: London Eye, National Theatre, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, and more.

Uber Boat By Thames Clippers Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Duration: All-day access
Highlights: Unlimited access, 24 piers across London, air-conditioned vessels
Operating hours: From 6am until the end of service on the same day
Route: Various stops including Westminster, Embankment, Bankside, and Canary Wharf.
Notable landmarks: Houses of Parliament, St. Paul's Cathedral, Oxo Tower, Cutty Sark.

Evening Cruise on River Thames

Duration: 2 hours
Highlights: Sparkling wine, canapes, live music, night views of London
Departure times: From 7pm onwards
Route: Circular route showcasing illuminated landmarks.
Notable landmarks: Tower of London, London Eye, Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge.

Thames River Lunch Cruise

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Highlights: Two-course lunch, live or recorded commentary, scenic views
Departure times: Daily at 11:45am
Route: Tower Pier to Greenwich Pier and back.
Notable landmarks: Tower Bridge, The Shard, Canary Wharf, Royal Naval College.

Thames Afternoon Tea Cruise

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Highlights: Tea-time delights, unlimited tea and coffee, iconic landmarks
Departure times: Afternoon
Route: Tower Pier to Westminster and back.
Notable landmarks: The Shard, Tower Bridge, London Eye, Houses of Parliament.

London Pass by Go City

Duration: Flexible, depending on the attractions visited
Highlights: Access to over 90 attractions, flexible entry times, extended validity
Validity: The pass is valid for 24 months from the date of purchase
Route: Various attractions across London.
Notable landmarks: Buckingham Palace, The British Museum, Tower of London, Kensington Palace.

Thames river cruise map

Hop-On Hop-Off cruise route

Thames River Cruise Route Map

Cruising soon? Know these insider tips

Choose the right cruise: There are many different sightseeing cruises on the Thames, each with its own route and commentary. For a comprehensive tour that covers all the major landmarks, choose a cruise that goes from one end of central London to the other, such as the sightseeing cruise from Westminster. Opt for a round-trip ticket to maximize your time on the cruise.
Consider the time of day: If you want to avoid crowds, take a sightseeing cruise early in the morning or later in the afternoon. If you're interested in seeing the city lights, take an evening cruise.
Pack a picnic: If you're on a budget, you can pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on board. There are plenty of places to sit and eat on most Thames cruises.
Tea cruise: Reserve a window seat for the best views and ambiance during your Afternoon Tea experience on the Thames.
Upper deck: Sit on the upper deck to enjoy unobstructed views of London's skyline and landmarks as you cruise along the Thames.
Plan your route: Before you start your hop-on hop-off cruise, take a look at the map and plan your route. Decide which sights you want to see and how much time you want to spend at each stop. Hop off at piers closest to the attractions you want to visit, maximizing your time in London.

Frequently Asked Questions about Thames River route map

Are the cruises suitable for children?

Yes, most Thames river cruises welcome children of all ages. However, certain cruises may have age restrictions, so it's best to check with the cruise operator beforehand.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on board the cruise?

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted on Thames river cruises. However, some cruises offer onboard dining options where you can purchase food and beverages.

Is there a dress code?

While there's no strict dress code, it's recommended to dress comfortably and according to the weather. For evening cruises, you may opt for smart casual attire, especially if dining is included.

Are Thames river cruises wheelchair accessible?

Many Thames river cruises are wheelchair accessible, but it's essential to check in advance to ensure accessibility and make any necessary arrangements.

Do I need to book the cruises in advance?

While some cruises allow for on-the-day bookings, it's highly recommended to book Thames river cruises in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date and time.

What landmarks can I expect to see during a cruise?

Depending on the route, Thames river cruises offer views of iconic landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, and more, providing a unique perspective of London's skyline and historic sites.