Thames River Afternoon Tea Cruises

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Afternoon tea with sandwiches and pastries at the British Museum.






From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+
Maureen Smith

Maureen

Sep 2025
5/5

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The whole experience was great, really well organised. The afternoon tea was perfectly adequate in fact there were more than enough cakes supplied. The staff were really friendly despite having to work to a tight schedule. The river views were spectacular, made better by the brilliant sunshine and blue sky. Also, the unofficial guided tour of the the river views was done with humour which made it enjoyable. I would recommend it to friends and family.
Laura Falzon

Laura

Sep 2025
4/5
The funny commentary from the crew and the smooth ride through the Thames, it was magical.
Caron Masterson

Caron

Aug 2025
5/5
What a fantastic trip. The staff were brilliant. The captain or who ever was one the speaker telling us about the sites was funny and informative and made our trip so much more fun. The serving staff were polite and efficient. We loved it and would recommend it to all our family and friends. In fact I already did. Thank you.
Irene de Bruin

Irene

Aug 2025
3/5
The staff was kind, the view and seatings were lovely. However, the sandwiches were dry and the bathrooms were below par (the doorlocks did not work on the two available bathrooms). Besides that, everything was great!
Lea Currie

Lea

Aug 2025
5/5
The guide was fantastic and funny. The food was delicious, especially the scones. Good service and a nice, relaxing ride with wonderful views.
Maxi Brandt

Maxi

Jul 2025
4/5
Plenty of tea, lots of food, kind staff, ticketing was very easy. Weirdly the email told us to print the tickets but a digital copy on the phone would have sufficed. Technically, we didn't even need that as we only had to give out name.
Stoyanka Andreeva

Stoyanka

Jun 2025
5/5

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+1 more

It was very well organized. Our table was great, the food too! The staff was amazing! We had a lot of fun!
Edward Brown

Edward

May 2025
5/5
Awesome! Next time I'd like to meet Jude Law.


TL;DR

  • Duration & experience: 1.5-hour round trip with a mid-afternoon treat. Offers daytime sightseeing with a traditional service.
  • Catering: Features fresh sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, and unlimited tea/coffee.
  • Boat & seating: Modern riverboats with spacious, climate-controlled cabins and large panoramic windows. 
  • Boarding hubs: Tower Pier 
  • Booking tip: For weekend cruises, book well in advance as these sailings are highly popular. Arrive at the pier at least 15 mins prior to departure.
  • Good to know: The cruise runs in light rain or sunshine. Soft drinks are included, but sparkling wine can be purchased onboard. Cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.

What to expect on a Thames Afternoon Tea cruise

Dining on Thames River cruise with view of The Shard in London.
Thames river cruise
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Afternoon Tea Cruise-4
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Family enjoying afternoon tea on a cruise with Tower Bridge in the background.
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Seamless boarding and a traditional welcome

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.

Relax in an elegant indoor saloon

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.

Savour a classic Afternoon Tea spread

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.

Enjoy unlimited tea and coffee service

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.

See London landmarks float by

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.

Smooth, scenic return journey

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.

Things to know before booking a Thames Afternoon Tea cruise

  • Menu format & inclusions: Your standard Thames Afternoon Tea cruise includes a traditional three-tiered service of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of mini pastries or cakes. The price also typically covers unlimited tea and filter coffee for the duration of the 90-min cruise.
  • Dietary options & allergens: Most operators offering a Thames Afternoon Tea cruise can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, and sometimes halal alternatives. This must be requested and confirmed at least 72 hours prior to sailing. Note that most kitchens cannot guarantee a completely nut-free environment due to the risk of cross-contamination.
  • Duration and timings: The typical Thames Afternoon Tea cruise lasts for approximately 90 mins (1 hr 30 mins). Sailings usually depart in the mid-to-late afternoon, around 3:30pm, making it the perfect break during your London sightseeing.
  • Seating & views: Seating is usually at reserved, fixed tables within the dining saloon. The boats are designed with panoramic windows to ensure all guests get a great view of the riverfront landmarks. Window tables are often available as a paid upgrade and typically seat two people.
  • Entertainment & commentary: These cruises are generally more relaxed and do not feature live entertainment like dinner cruises. Instead, your experience includes either live or recorded sightseeing commentary to point out iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Tower Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament.
  • Upgrades & additional purchases: While the included tea/coffee is unlimited, other beverages are not. A fully licensed bar is available on board where you can purchase soft drinks, wine, beer, and, for a special treat, a glass of Champagne to go with your Afternoon Tea.
  • Weather and vessel comfort: The dining areas on the boats are fully enclosed, heated, and climate-controlled, making the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise an excellent experience year-round. Most vessels also feature an open upper deck for guests who wish to step out for photos and fresh air.

Sights you’ll see on a Thames Afternoon Tea cruise

Westminster Palace and Big Ben by the River Thames in London.

Palace of Westminster & Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)

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.

London Eye with nearby buildings, viewed during afternoon tea experience.
The Shard skyscraper in London against a clear blue sky.
St Paul's Cathedral exterior with iconic dome, London.
Tower of London with White Tower and medieval fortress walls, United Kingdom.

Plan your Afternoon Tea cruise in London

Thames River with view of the Shard and cityscape in London.

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.

Plan your visit

Address: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames Street, London, EC3N 4DT | Find on Maps

Getting there:

  • Nearest Tube: Tower Hill Station (Circle & District lines) – 5-min walk.
  • Nearest train/DLR: London Fenchurch Street Station (National Rail) or Tower Gateway Station (DLR) – both are a 7-10 min walk.
  • Nearest bus stops: Routes 15, N15, 42, 78, 100, 343, N551 all stop near the Tower of London (stops TA/TB/TD).
  • Car/Taxi access: Taxis are readily available. Nearby parking is available at the Tower Hill Car Park, but be aware that the pier is within the Central London Congestion Charge Zone. Public transport is highly recommended for the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise.
Get directions
Tower Bridge view from Thames River during vintage bus tour and cruise.
  • All boats feature a comfortable, heated saloon with panoramic windows for excellent viewing in all weather. 
  • Onboard amenities include clean restrooms (with accessible facilities), a fully licensed bar for purchasing drinks like prosecco or cocktails, and an open upper deck to enjoy the views and fresh air. 
  • Life jackets are stowed safely, and the crew are fully trained.
  • Major boarding points like Tower Pier often have public restrooms nearby and a dedicated ticket desk or help point. 
  • Please note that cloakrooms or lockers are generally not available for this experience, so travel light for your Thames Afternoon Tea cruise.
Tower Bridge over the River Thames in London during a city tour.
  • Accessibility for a Thames Afternoon Tea cruise varies by vessel. 
  • While major piers (Westminster, Tower) have ramps, the steepness is tide-dependent.
  • Not all boats are fully wheelchair accessible; electric wheelchairs are often not permitted.
  • The crew is happy to assist those with reduced mobility with boarding via ramps and may ask passengers to transfer from a non-motorised wheelchair to a seat for safety.
Cruise passengers view Tower Bridge and The Shard on Thames River, London.
  • Duration & boarding: The typical Thames Afternoon Tea cruise lasts approximately 90 mins. Please arrive at the pier 15-20 mins before departure.
  • Accessibility: Main vessels for the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise are generally wheelchair accessible, but check with the operator for specific pier information.
  • Baggage: Large luggage (suitcases, big backpacks) is generally not permitted on board the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise.
  • Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the vessel; designated outdoor areas may be available.
  • Dress code: Smart casual attire is recommended for your Thames Afternoon Tea cruise experience.
Red and white City Cruises boat on the Thames with Tower of London in the background.
  • For the best photos on your Thames Afternoon Tea cruise, head to the upper deck for unobstructed views as the boat turns near Westminster and again at Tower Bridge.
  • While the dress code is typically casual/smart casual, choosing smart attire will elevate your photos. 
  • Book your Thames Afternoon Tea cruise 1–2 weeks ahead in peak season, and inform the operator of any dietary needs at least 72 hours in advance.

Other types of Thames River cruises

Breakfast tray with coffee, juice, and pastries on a Thames lunch cruise.

Lunch cruises

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.

Book Thames River lunch cruises
River Thames dinner cruise boat near Tower Bridge with festive Christmas lights in London.

Dinner cruises

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.

Book Thames River dinner cruises
Couple enjoying sparkling wine on Thames River cruise with Big Ben in the background.

Evening cruises

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.

Book Thames River evening cruises
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers cruising near illuminated London bridge at dusk.

Uber Boat

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.

Book Thames River Uber Boat tickets

Frequently Asked Questions about Thames Afternoon Tea cruises

How far in advance should I book my Thames Afternoon Tea cruise ticket?

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.

Are tickets required for infants or young children on 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.

How long does a standard Thames Afternoon Tea cruise last?

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.

What happens if I miss the boat's departure time?

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.

Is seating assigned or first-come, first-served on the Thames Afternoon Tea cruises?

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.

Is the seating private or shared?

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.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

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.

Is live entertainment included on all Afternoon Tea cruises?

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.

Can I access the open deck for sightseeing on an Afternoon Tea cruise?

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.

Are vegetarian/vegan options available?

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.

Is alcohol included or available for purchase?

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.

Can I bring my own snacks or celebratory food/drink?

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.

Do I need to dress up, or is there a dress code?

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.

Which pier does the Thames Afternoon Tea cruise depart from?

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.

Can I bring my pet on the Afternoon Tea cruise?

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.