Everything You Need To Know About The Thames River

Thames River cruise | Sail the heart of London

Imagine gliding along the Thames, sipping a coffee as iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament pass by. Whether you're on a hop-on, hop-off City Cruise, or a laid-back ride with Thames Clippers, there's something for everyone. With onboard cafes, accessible seating, and live commentary, these cruises turn sightseeing into an unforgettable, relaxing adventure on London's most famous waterway.

Different routes of Thames River cruise

Looking for a relaxing yet immersive way to see London? Thames River cruises offer a variety of routes. The Westminster to Greenwich cruise is perfect for history lovers, with incredible views of Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the Tower of London in just over an hour. If you're in a hurry, the Westminster to Tower Pier route offers a shorter 30-minute experience, still packed with sights like HMS Belfast and The Shard. For ultimate freedom, hop-on, hop-off cruises let you explore the city at your own pace. And don't forget about the dining cruises – who wouldn't want to enjoy dinner while sailing past St. Paul's Cathedral? It's always a good time on the Thames, whichever route you take.

History of the Thames River

The Thames River has a rich and winding history, deeply intertwined with England's story. Here's a snapshot of its fascinating past:

• Ancient origins: Millions of years ago, the Thames was a tributary of the Rhine, with Britain still connected to Europe. The Ice Age reshaped it, carving out the Goring Gap and forming today's mighty river.
• Roman arrival: When the Romans landed in 43 AD, they were drawn to a strategic ford on the Thames. They established Londinium—the early London—and built the river's first bridge.
• Medieval metropolis: London blossomed into a bustling center of trade and power under Roman rule. The Thames became a crucial transportation route, with settlements and monasteries popping up along its banks.
• Shifting tides: Viking raids occurred in the 8th and 9th centuries, but they soon settled in. The riverbanks saw the rise of iconic structures like Westminster Abbey, cementing London's status as England's capital.
• Industrial age: The 18th and 19th centuries transformed the Thames into an industrial powerhouse, linked by canals and bustling with cargo. Unfortunately, this period also brought significant pollution.
• Modern revival: By the 20th century, the Thames was struggling, but stricter regulations and environmental efforts turned things around. Today, it's a vibrant, healthy river brimming with life and vitality.

Thames River in today's time

The Thames River today is a fascinating story of progress and ongoing issues. 

On one hand, it's seen a major glow-up since the pollution-heavy days of the past. It's now one of the cleanest urban rivers in the world, with thriving wildlife like salmon, seals, and even the occasional harbor porpoise making a comeback. However, the river still has its battles. Sewage overflow from London's combined sewage system happens about once a week during heavy rain, sometimes dumping millions of tonnes of diluted sewage into the Thames. But there's hope on the horizon with the Thames Tideway Tunnel project, a massive £4.2 billion initiative set to cut sewage discharges by up to 90% when it's finished in 2025. While there's still work to do, the Thames is definitely on the mend and bustling with life!