Thames River Tours and Activities

Thames River
London which includes a river or creek, a city and street scenes
London which includes boating, a river or creek and night scenes
Thames River featuring mist or fog, a river or creek and a bridge
London featuring a skyscraper, a city and a river or creek


Sail on the water or walk along the riverbank to admire the scenery and take a trip through time on London’s great river.

London’s long and tumultuous history is written upon the face of the city, and the River Thames has watched it all. A 19th-century Member of Parliament, John Burns, said it best: “The Mississippi is muddy water, but the Thames is liquid history.” In modern-day London, history comes to life on the 70 wharves, which have remained in operation after centuries. As you make your way down the river’s dark waters, you will enjoy a unique snapshot of life in this dynamic but resolutely historical city.

Any trip down the Thames is a trip into London’s mighty past, as the story of this river is entwined with the history of London and its surrounds. The current London Bridge is located near the site where the Romans built the river’s first bridge, some two millennia ago. By the post-industrial Victorian era, London was notorious for its dreadful public health conditions and the Thames had become more or less an open sewer. Eventually, however, the river was cleaned up. Some say the decision to clean the river came about because the members in the riverside House of Parliament at the time could no longer bear the smell.

Today, the Thames is far more hygienic and atmospheric. A variety of companies offer cruises of the river. For an unforgettably picturesque experience, take a cruise around sunset. Adventurous visitors might prefer to row their own way down the river, starting in the clear Upper Thames and passing through Windsor before winding into the heart of London.

Take a walk along the Thames Path to enjoy a fine city hike. The path will take you past famous sights, including the Millennium Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the Tower Bridge, as well as some of London’s quieter zones. The views along the river are beautiful, so remember to bring your camera.

The River Thames is easily accessible from most London locations. Look online to survey the various cruise and tour offerings available.

Plan a trip to see Thames River

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Corinthia London
The Savoy
The Langham, London

Tours & day trips

See all 559 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 152 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 69 activities

Shows & concerts

See all 26 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Thames River Hotel & Accommodation Deals

The Tower Hotel, by Thistle

The Tower Hotel, by Thistle

4 out of 5
St Katharine's Way, London, England
The Tower Hotel, by Thistle
Strand Palace Hotel

Strand Palace Hotel

4 out of 5
372 The Strand, London, England
Strand Palace Hotel
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge

Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge

4 out of 5
200 Westminster Bridge Road, London, England
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
Sea Containers London

Sea Containers London

5 out of 5
20 Upper Ground, London, England
Sea Containers London
Zedwell Piccadilly Circus

Zedwell Piccadilly Circus

3 out of 5
Great Windmill Street, London, England
Zedwell Piccadilly Circus
Park Plaza London Riverbank

Park Plaza London Riverbank

4 out of 5
18 Albert Embankment, London, England
Park Plaza London Riverbank
Park Plaza County Hall London

Park Plaza County Hall London

4 out of 5
1 Addington Street, London, England
Park Plaza County Hall London
Royal National Hotel

Royal National Hotel

3 out of 5
38-51 Bedford Way, London, England
Royal National Hotel
The Z Hotel Holborn

The Z Hotel Holborn

3 out of 5
75 Kingsway, London, England
The Z Hotel Holborn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Thames River

Exploring the Thames River offers a fantastic mix of activities including scenic walks along the Thames Path, where you can soak in stunning views. Don't miss out on a shopping break at nearby markets and boutiques, and be sure to catch some live entertainment at local theatres for a taste of the vibrant cultural scene. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for any visitor!

Shopping

Borough Market, just 1.6km from Thames River, offers a vibrant atmosphere with fresh produce and gourmet treats. Selfridges, 3.2km away, is perfect for high-end fashion. For a family-friendly outing, visit the Brunswick Centre, also 1.6km away, featuring shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

At the O2 Arena, immerse yourself in a dynamic sports atmosphere that energises the spirit. The ABBA Arena offers a vibrant musical experience, perfect for entertainment enthusiasts. For a serene retreat, Hampstead Heath invites you to relax amidst lush greenery, providing a tranquil escape for your wellness journey.

Adventure

At IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station, soar above the Thames River in a thrilling cable car gondola, offering stunning views. Experience the excitement of Vertical Chill, where you can challenge yourself with outdoor climbing. For adrenaline junkies, the Oasis Go-Kart Track provides an exhilarating karting adventure nearby.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife along the Thames River! Take a spin on the London Eye for stunning views, then immerse yourself in the thrilling tales at the London Dungeon. For a cultural evening, catch a show at the Royal National Theatre, where family and romance blend beautifully.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Thames River

Exploring the Thames River offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. You can wander through charming streets and picturesque piazzas, visit historic churches, and enjoy stunning river views. Don't miss out on the Riverside bars and retreats for a relaxing atmosphere while soaking in the beauty of the River Thames, especially as it flows through London. It's the perfect spot for both leisure and exploration during your visit!

  • Big Ben: This iconic clock tower stands as a symbol of London and is a must-see for any visitor. Located a mere 322m from the Thames River, Big Ben showcases stunning Gothic architecture and offers a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of the city. Don’t miss the chance to hear its famous chimes!
  • Piccadilly Circus: Just 1.1km from the Thames, this bustling street is renowned for its bright lights and energetic vibe. It’s a hub of entertainment, surrounded by theatres, shops, and restaurants, perfect for soaking in the local culture and nightlife.
  • Buckingham Palace: At 1.4km from the Thames, this historic palace is the official residence of the monarch. Experience the grandeur of its architecture and the Changing of the Guard ceremony, immersing yourself in Britain’s rich royal heritage.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Thames River

To save on your trip to the Thames River, consider visiting between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Sunday for the best rates, and check for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Use their search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. For transport, take advantage of affordable public transport or explore on foot. Combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Enjoy free activities along the river to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Thames River are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Thames River about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Thames River is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Thames River is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Thames River hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.