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Board your Thames afternoon tea cruise from piers like Tower or Westminster. A friendly crew will guide you to your reserved table, beginning your quintessentially British experience on the River Thames.
Settle into comfortable seating within a climate-controlled lower saloon, featuring panoramic windows for perfect views. An open-air upper deck is also available to fully immerse yourself in the riverside atmosphere.
Indulge in tiered platters featuring delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of traditional cakes, all essential to the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise experience.
Your traditional spread is complemented by unlimited servings of English tea and coffee. A licensed onboard bar also offers Champagne or other drinks for purchase, adding a touch of sparkle to your journey.
A Thames Afternoon Tea cruise provides unique river views of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and the historic Tower of London, accompanied by informative and often humorous commentary.
The 90-min Thames Afternoon Tea cruise glides smoothly back to the pier, leaving you refreshed and having ticked off a classic London experience combining sightseeing and a renowned British ritual.
This Gothic Revival masterpiece commands attention as the river's centrepiece. Around 4pm, the warm western sun bathes the stone in a soft, golden light, creating silhouettes of the tower and the Houses of Parliament against the fading sky for a memorable cruise photo.
Departure times: 3:30pm. Boarding begins 15 mins prior to sailing, and prompt arrival is required as the boat cannot wait for latecomers.
Duration: 1.5 hours (90 mins) for a round trip.
Best season to cruise: During the shoulder seasons of spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). The weather is mild, crowds are generally lighter than in peak summer, and daylight hours are long enough for great sightseeing from the panoramic windows.
Address: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames Street, London, EC3N 4DT | Find on Maps
Getting there:
Enjoy London's skyline paired with a delicious two-course plated lunch. This cruise is perfect for a relaxed midday break, offering a great balance of sightseeing and dining without the evening commitment.
Experience the ultimate romantic evening as London’s landmarks light up. Indulge in a four-course gourmet meal with live entertainment, transforming your sightseeing into a sophisticated night out.
Opt for a sophisticated sunset experience featuring canapés and sparkling wine rather than a full meal. Ideal for those who want night views and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Travel the river like a Londoner. These high-speed commuter boats offer a practical, efficient, and cost-effective way to hop between key piers while enjoying scenic views.
It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular times like weekends or bank holidays. Early booking secures your desired date and time for the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise.
Yes, while infants (typically under 2-4 years) may travel free, they still require a ticket for capacity and safety purposes. Children (usually 5-15 years) require a paid child ticket.
Most Thames Afternoon Tea cruise experiences last approximately 90 mins (1.5 hours). This duration allows you to enjoy your food while cruising past all the major central London landmarks.
The Thames Afternoon Tea cruise operates on a strict timetable and cannot wait for late arrivals. Unfortunately, if you miss your scheduled departure, you are generally not entitled to a refund or a transfer to a later sailing.
Seating is reserved and pre-allocated before you board the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise. You will be shown to your assigned table, ensuring an organised and stress-free dining experience.
Seating is generally shared, with tables (often fixed) usually accommodating up to four people, sometimes in close proximity. Private window tables for two may be available as a premium option when booking your Thames Afternoon Tea cruise.
Most modern vessels used for a Thames Afternoon Tea cruise offer wheelchair access to the main saloon, as well as accessible toilet facilities. Always confirm specific requirements with the operator when booking.
No, live entertainment is not standard on all Afternoon Tea cruises. You will, however, have either live or recorded commentary focusing on the landmarks you pass along the River Thames.
Yes, absolutely. All dedicated dining vessels for the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise are equipped with an open-air upper deck. You can stroll upstairs for 360-degree views and photography.
Yes, vegetarian and full vegan menus are available for the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise. These must be requested and confirmed in advance (usually 72 hours) during the booking process.
Your ticket includes unlimited tea and coffee. Alcoholic drinks, such as a glass of Prosecco or Champagne, and a wide selection of other beverages, can be purchased from the onboard licensed bar.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted on the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise as a general rule. You are provided with a full menu, and an onboard bar is available for additional purchases.
The recommended dress code is usually smart-casual attire. While you don't need formal wear, most guests dress nicely for this traditional Afternoon Tea experience.
The most common departure point for the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise is Tower Pier, though some sailings may also depart from Westminster Pier. Please confirm your boarding location on your e-ticket.
No, pets are generally not allowed on the dining cruises, including the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise. However, assistance dogs and guide dogs are always welcome on board with valid documentation.
