London River Thames - Things to See
Discover the city's iconic landmarks with our guide of things to see on London's River Thames
The Thames River in London spans 215 miles and is an iconic landmark of London, flowing through the heart of the city. One of the best ways to explore the capital is on a River Bus with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. As you cruise along, you'll catch sight of some of the best landmarks and attractions in London that lie along the banks of the Thames, offering you a unique perspective of the city.
Don’t forget to pack your camera and look out for the key sights along the way…
Thames River Roamer
One of the best ways to see London is with an Uber Boat by Thames Clippers River Roamer ticket. This service offers unparalleled views of the city from the water. With 23 stops across the length of the river, you can take a leisurely cruise from Greenwich Pier to Westminster Pier, stopping at iconic places like Tower Hill and the London Eye. Essentially, you get to explore many of London's piers all in one go!
The boat trips run all year long, with timetables that are dependent on the season – more services run in the summer months and continue later into the lighter evenings, offering you that perfect sunset experience over the London Thames. Boats depart every 20 minutes from major piers, making it a flexible way to see London by river.
Westminster Pier
Just down from the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Pier is perfect to see a more historic side of London. From here you can get a great photo shot of the Houses of Parliament, visit the Household Cavalry Museum and the unmissable UNESCO World Heritage Site, Westminster Abbey. The wedding church of Prince William and Kate and the coronation church of the Royal Family since William the Conqueror, it’s one of London’s finest historic attractions and well worth a visit with your London Pass.
London Eye Pier
London Eye Pier is conveniently located right next to the London Eye, a short walk from the London Aquarium and Big Ben. This pier serves as a gateway to the cultural hub of the Southbank, a favourite spot among Londoners. It's a vibrant area, brimming with pop-up eateries, rooftop bars, and theatres, not to mention the British Film Institute and National Theatre. As you wander down Bankside, you'll also pass by the historic Shakespeare’s Globe and the Tate Modern art gallery.
Tower Pier
The Tower Pier is a hot spot to get off to see the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Enter one of London’s most popular historic attractions and learn about the kings and queens who ruled, from the scandals of the past to the secrets of the court. Next walk along Tower Bridge, one of London’s most iconic bridges and monuments. This Victorian landmark was the first ever bridge across the Thames River in London and is still in use today. The new Glass Walkway offers spectacular views across the capital.
Greenwich Pier
Head further east down the river, from Westminster Pier to Greenwich Pier, and you'll find yourself in the open, green spaces of Greenwich. Greenwich is the answer to all things maritime, with the National Maritime Museum and historic Cutty Sark. Step over the meridian line at the Royal Observatory and take in the views over Greenwich Park before walking down to the market for some freshly produced picnic food.
Exploring London by river is a fabulous way to see all the different sides of this fascinating city. One thing's for sure, you’ll pass by some great London landmarks along the way, from the Houses of Parliament to the iconic Shakespeare’s Globe. And the convenience of hopping on and off at different London piers allows you to tailor your journey along the Thames River London just the way you like it.
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