Thames River Lunch Cruise | London Dining & 2-Course Meals

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From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Siobhan

Feb 2026

‌

The commentary from the crew was brilliant, informative and entertaining. The boat was clean with drinks and snacks on board

Xiang

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

‌

My feet were killing me from touring all day so we booked this cruise last minute just to rest. Best decision ever. Going from Westminster down to Tower Bridge as the sun set was absolutely gorgeous. The city looks totally different from the water. Our time on the cruise was really something else and definitely reccomend other considering this experience to book ASAP. Getting that close to Tower Bridge was amazing, you really feel how massive it is. It was so relaxing and a great way to end our day.

Anne

Feb 2026

‌

Visiting Tower Bridge was great and interesting. Great view 👌✌️ The Tower was also beautiful. But it wasn't my first visit.

Marcela

Mexico

Jan 2026

‌

+1 more

A fabulous place that transports you back in time, a site steeped in history with impressive galleries. Inside and outside the castle there are beautiful places to take photos, and the crown jewels are also fabulous to admire. My husband gave me a ring for our 25th anniversary. Afterwards, walk across London Bridge, enjoying the views and the great structure of the bridge. Leave your fear behind and walk on the glass of the bridge... enjoy it to the fullest!

Hannah

South Africa

Jan 2026

‌

Framless brought art to life in a way I never imagined. The selection of art, the dynamic galleries were truely breath taking. I really think that it is the best thing to do in london, no matter the day or weather.

Varsha

United Kingdom

Dec 2025

‌

The experience was amazing. One of a kind and unique. It felt like stepping into the painting. Artworka selected were beautiful! Buying tickets through headout was smooth too!

Jackie

United Kingdom

Nov 2025

‌

A brilliant day out in London highlighted by this 2 course lunch on the River Thames. Lovely food and attentive staff whilst enjoying viewing, and listening about, some of London's most famous sights. :)

Jordi

Mar 2026

Highly recommended. You can't go to London and not go up the London Eye to take in the amazing 180° views—they're breathtaking! And the cruise on the Thames was fantastic, well guided and covering all the city's must-sees! An incredible experience!

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TL;DR

Cruise options: 2–3 hour cruise; lunch or Afternoon Tea.
Menu & format: Relaxed 3-course meal or full menu format. Specify vegetarian or vegan requests at booking.
Boats & seating: Dine aboard a modern, comfortable boat, all with panoramic windows.
Boarding hub: Tower Pier
When to book: Cruises, especially weekend sailings, sell out quickly. Book well in advance and arrive 15–20 mins prior to departure.
Good to know: Soft drinks are often included with the meal; note that all alcohol is an add-on purchase. Cruises run reliably even in light rain.

Cruise	Cruise type	Menu style	Duration	Other inclusions	Seating/Boat type	Boarding point	Price
2-course Thames River lunch cruise	Lunch cruise	Plated 2-course meal (main & dessert) + tea/coffee	1 hour 45 mins	Live or recorded commentary	Indoor saloon with panoramic windows, open-air upper deck	Tower Millennium Pier	From £49
Classic Afternoon Tea cruise	Afternoon Tea cruise	Finger sandwiches, scones, mini-pastries + unlimited tea/coffee	1 hour 30 mins		Indoor saloon with panoramic windows, open-air upper deck	Tower Millennium Pier	From £49

Board your vessel, often from Tower Pier, and be guided to your reserved table. The friendly crew provides a warm welcome as you prepare for a scenic Thames River lunch cruise through the heart of London.

Enjoy the cosy, climate-controlled saloon featuring large windows, ensuring a clear view of the cityscape from any seat. An open-air top deck offers fresh air and the best vantage points on your Thames River lunch cruise.

Indulge in a hearty, freshly prepared seasonal set meal, which typically includes a main course and dessert. This midday treat is served directly to your table, complete with tea or coffee, enhancing the Thames River lunch cruise experience.

Glide past London’s landmarks like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye. Live or recorded commentary enriches your journey, blending sightseeing with a relaxing Thames river lunch cruise.

For a lighter option, consider the 90-min Afternoon Tea cruise, swapping the hot lunch for classic finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, alongside unlimited tea/coffee as you sail the Thames.

Things to know before booking a Thames River lunch cruise

Menu format: The standard Thames River lunch cruise typically includes a two-course set meal, often featuring a main course and dessert, alongside tea or coffee. Afternoon Tea cruises offer a selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries with unlimited tea/coffee. Some operators also offer a three-course option.
Duration and timings: Most Thames River lunch cruises last approximately 1 hour 45 mins to 2 hours, usually departing around midday (11:45am). Afternoon Tea cruises generally last 90 mins, often with an afternoon departure time around 3:30pm.
Dietary options: Vegetarian options are standard on a Thames River lunch cruise, and many operators can also accommodate vegan and gluten-free diets. It is crucial to inform the cruise operator of any allergies or special dietary requirements, ideally at the time of booking or at least 24–72 hours in advance.
Seating types: Seating is typically at reserved tables in the dining saloon, which features panoramic windows for great views on your Thames River lunch cruise. Tables are often fixed and may be situated in close proximity to other guests. Window tables are a popular upgrade option, especially for couples, but often sell out quickly.
Onboard commentary: Your Thames River lunch cruise includes live or recorded commentary, pointing out London landmarks like the Tower of London, Big Ben, and the London Eye, enhancing your sightseeing experience while you dine.
Drinks and additional purchases: While the meal includes tea or coffee, all other beverages, including alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and speciality coffees, are usually purchased separately from the fully licensed onboard bar.
Weather consideration: River cruise boats are designed for all-weather enjoyment, featuring heated or air-conditioned indoor saloons for comfortable dining and open-air upper decks for viewing London's skyline.

Dining style: Plated two-course lunch

Signature dishes: Thyme, Rosemary, and Lemon Roasted Supreme of Chicken; Baked Field Mushroom Lattice Pastry (V); White, Dark, and Milk Chocolate Truffle Cake. (See sample menu)

Drinks: Tea and coffee are included. Additional alcoholic drinks (wine, beer, cocktails) and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from the onboard bar.

Live entertainment: Live or recorded commentary is provided, detailing the landmarks you pass on this Thames River lunch cruise.

Ambience/special touches: Relaxed and comfortable setting. Seating is often at tables of four. Step out onto the open upper deck after lunch for unobstructed views.

Dining style: Traditional British Afternoon Tea service, typically served at your table

Signature dishes: A selection of finger sandwiches (like Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese, Egg & Cress), freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of mini pastries and cakes. (See sample menu)

Drinks: Unlimited tea and coffee are included. Sparkling wine or champagne can be purchased from the onboard bar to elevate your experience.

Live entertainment: Live or recorded commentary highlights the sights during this cruise.

Ambience/special touches: Quintessentially British and relaxing. Perfect for a lighter daytime treat and enjoying the passing London landmarks, lasting around 90 mins.

Thames River lunch cruise: Boarding is typically around 11:30am for departure at 11:45am daily, and Afternoon Tea cruises board around 3:15pm and depart at 3:30pm.

Duration: Lunch cruises are approximately 1 hour 45 mins while Afternoon Tea cruises are usually 1.5 hours.

Best time to cruise: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) have pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak summer, making your Thames River lunch cruise more enjoyable.

Dining area: Comfortable indoor salons for seated dining. Tables are fixed and may be in close proximity to other diners.
Viewing options: Large panoramic windows in the indoor saloon for excellent views, and an open upper deck for 360-degree views and photos.
Food & beverages: A 2-course lunch or a selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries for afternoon tea. Unlimited tea/coffee is included with the meal/tea. A fully licensed, fully stocked bar is available for purchasing drinks (additional charge).
Restrooms: Toilet facilities are available.
Climate control: Indoor saloons are heated/air-conditioned.
Commentary: Live or recorded commentary is provided, highlighting the landmarks and history.

While many piers and large boats are accessible, wheelchair accessibility on a Thames River lunch cruise can vary.

Boarding: Ramps are used at most piers, and the crew is trained to assist. However, certain vessels used for a Thames River lunch cruise may have limitations.
Onboard: Larger boats have accessible restrooms and open spaces. Guests are advised to contact the operator directly when booking a Thames River lunch cruise to confirm specific vessel features for their date.

Arrival time: Please arrive at the pier at least 15 mins before your scheduled Thames River lunch cruise departure time. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
Outside food/drink: No outside food, drinks, or alcohol may be brought onto the Thames River lunch cruise vessel.
Baggage: Large bags, suitcases, bicycles, and scooters are generally prohibited for safety reasons.
Attire: The dress code for the Thames River lunch cruise is typically smart casual; flip-flops and leisurewear are usually discouraged.
Accessibility: Guests must be able to walk onto the boat; electric wheelchairs are often not permitted on dining cruises. Guide dogs are welcome.

Best views: For the best photo opportunities on your Thames River lunch cruise, secure a seat near the window or head to the open upper deck. London's most iconic landmarks, like the Tower of London and the London Eye, are visible from both sides, but the open deck provides unobstructed, 360-degree views.
Dress code: The dress code for a daytime Thames River lunch cruise is typically casual, comfortable, and informal, though smart-casual attire will look better in your photos with the city skyline.
Seasickness: The Thames River is generally calm; motion sickness is rare, but if concerned, opt for a mid-boat seat on the main deck during your Thames River lunch cruise.
Dietary needs: For special meals (e.g., vegan, gluten-free), notify the operator at least 72 hours before your Thames River lunch cruise to ensure your custom meal is prepared.

Thames River lunch cruise tours take you from Tower Bridge to Westminster and Canary Wharf. The exact route changes depending on the tides.

Seating is pre-allocated before boarding your Thames River lunch cruise. You will be shown to your reserved table upon arrival.

Seating is at individual tables, but they are often fixed and situated in close proximity to other diners as part of the relaxed atmosphere of the Thames River lunch cruise.

The dress code for a Thames River lunch cruise or Afternoon Tea is generally "casual" and comfortable, although many guests choose smart casual attire for a celebratory feel. However, avoid flip-flops and leisurewear.

Live or recorded sightseeing commentary is always included on a Thames River lunch cruise and afternoon tea cruise. Full live musical entertainment is generally reserved for evening dinner cruises.

Yes, all vessels used for the Thames River lunch cruise and Afternoon Tea experience feature an open upper deck, perfect for taking photos of the London skyline before or after your meal.

Yes, vegetarian and sometimes vegan options are available for the Thames River lunch cruise and Afternoon Tea, but dietary requirements must be communicated when booking (usually 24–72 hours in advance).

Alcohol is not typically included in the standard Thames River lunch cruise or Afternoon Tea ticket price. However, a fully licensed bar is available onboard for you to purchase drinks.

What to expect on a Thames River lunch cruise

1/5

Seamless boarding and welcoming ambience

Comfortable dining with panoramic views

Savour a delightful 2-course meal

Unrivalled views and insightful commentary

A British Afternoon Tea alternative

For a lighter option, consider the 90-min Afternoon Tea cruise, swapping the hot lunch for classic finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, alongside unlimited tea/coffee as you sail the Thames.

Sights you’ll see on a Thames River lunch cruise

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower)

As your Thames River lunch cruise glides past Westminster, the Palace of Westminster, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece, comes into view. You'll enjoy a unique, unobstructed daytime perspective of its façade and the Elizabeth Tower, home to the Great Bell, Big Ben.

St Paul's Cathedral exterior with iconic dome, London.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London with a thatched roof and blue sky.

HMS Belfast moored on the River Thames with Tower Bridge and the Tower of London in the background.

Sightseeing cruises

This is your narrated, historical introduction to London's landmarks. Unlike specialized cruises, this option is the most flexible and budget-friendly, focused purely on getting you up-close views of all the major sights in daylight with informative commentary.

Book Thames River sightseeing cruises

Dinner cruises

Elevate your evening with a four-course dining experience. This cruise replaces pure sightseeing with gourmet food, live entertainment, and dancing, transforming the illuminated skyline into a sophisticated backdrop for a special occasion.

Book Thames River dinner cruises

Evening cruises

Perfect for unwinding at dusk. Instead of a full meal, this cruise centers around drinks, canapés, and music as you chase the sunset. It offers a more social, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the illuminated views without the commitment of a dinner service.

Book Thames River evening cruises

Uber Boat

This functions as a high-speed river commuter service. It is the most practical and efficient ticket, allowing you to use the Thames as a transport link to hop between key piers while sightseeing, beating London traffic.

Book Thames River Uber Boat tickets

Stuffed chicken breast with spinach, mushrooms, and gorgonzola sauce on a white plate.

Dining style: Plated two-course lunch

Signature dishes: Thyme, Rosemary, and Lemon Roasted Supreme of Chicken; Baked Field Mushroom Lattice Pastry (V); White, Dark, and Milk Chocolate Truffle Cake. (See sample menu)

Drinks: Tea and coffee are included. Additional alcoholic drinks (wine, beer, cocktails) and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from the onboard bar.

Live entertainment: Live or recorded commentary is provided, detailing the landmarks you pass on this Thames River lunch cruise.

Ambience/special touches: Relaxed and comfortable setting. Seating is often at tables of four. Step out onto the open upper deck after lunch for unobstructed views.

Afternoon tea with sandwiches and pastries at the British Museum.

Dining style: Traditional British Afternoon Tea service, typically served at your table

Drinks: Unlimited tea and coffee are included. Sparkling wine or champagne can be purchased from the onboard bar to elevate your experience.

Live entertainment: Live or recorded commentary highlights the sights during this cruise.

Ambience/special touches: Quintessentially British and relaxing. Perfect for a lighter daytime treat and enjoying the passing London landmarks, lasting around 90 mins.

Sightseeing cruise passengers view the Tower of London from the Thames River.

Thames River lunch cruise: Boarding is typically around 11:30am for departure at 11:45am daily, and Afternoon Tea cruises board around 3:15pm and depart at 3:30pm.

Duration: Lunch cruises are approximately 1 hour 45 mins while Afternoon Tea cruises are usually 1.5 hours.

Best time to cruise: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) have pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak summer, making your Thames River lunch cruise more enjoyable.

Two people enjoying tea on a Thames River cruise with cityscape view.

Dining area: Comfortable indoor salons for seated dining. Tables are fixed and may be in close proximity to other diners.
Viewing options: Large panoramic windows in the indoor saloon for excellent views, and an open upper deck for 360-degree views and photos.
Food & beverages: A 2-course lunch or a selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries for afternoon tea. Unlimited tea/coffee is included with the meal/tea. A fully licensed, fully stocked bar is available for purchasing drinks (additional charge).
Restrooms: Toilet facilities are available.
Climate control: Indoor saloons are heated/air-conditioned.
Commentary: Live or recorded commentary is provided, highlighting the landmarks and history.

Wheelchair user boarding bus via accessible ramp.

While many piers and large boats are accessible, wheelchair accessibility on a Thames River lunch cruise can vary.

Boarding: Ramps are used at most piers, and the crew is trained to assist. However, certain vessels used for a Thames River lunch cruise may have limitations.
Onboard: Larger boats have accessible restrooms and open spaces. Guests are advised to contact the operator directly when booking a Thames River lunch cruise to confirm specific vessel features for their date.

Sightseeing cruise on River Thames passing under Millennium Bridge, London.

Arrival time: Please arrive at the pier at least 15 mins before your scheduled Thames River lunch cruise departure time. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
Outside food/drink: No outside food, drinks, or alcohol may be brought onto the Thames River lunch cruise vessel.
Baggage: Large bags, suitcases, bicycles, and scooters are generally prohibited for safety reasons.
Attire: The dress code for the Thames River lunch cruise is typically smart casual; flip-flops and leisurewear are usually discouraged.
Accessibility: Guests must be able to walk onto the boat; electric wheelchairs are often not permitted on dining cruises. Guide dogs are welcome.

Lunch setting on Thames River Cruise with chicken dish, vegetables, and menu.

Best views: For the best photo opportunities on your Thames River lunch cruise, secure a seat near the window or head to the open upper deck. London's most iconic landmarks, like the Tower of London and the London Eye, are visible from both sides, but the open deck provides unobstructed, 360-degree views.
Dress code: The dress code for a daytime Thames River lunch cruise is typically casual, comfortable, and informal, though smart-casual attire will look better in your photos with the city skyline.
Seasickness: The Thames River is generally calm; motion sickness is rare, but if concerned, opt for a mid-boat seat on the main deck during your Thames River lunch cruise.
Dietary needs: For special meals (e.g., vegan, gluten-free), notify the operator at least 72 hours before your Thames River lunch cruise to ensure your custom meal is prepared.

Thames River CruiseThames River Lunch Cruise

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

Tube/DLR: Nearest station is Tower Hill (District & Circle lines) – 5-min walk. Tower Gateway DLR station is also close by (7-min walk)
Train: London Fenchurch Street Station is a short walk away.
Bus: Routes including 15 and N15 stop nearby at the Tower of London stops.
Car: Closest paid parking is found at the Tower Hill Car Park, but the pier is within the Congestion Charge zone; public transport is highly recommended for your Thames River lunch cruise.

Get directions

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

Tube/DLR: Nearest station is Tower Hill (District & Circle lines) – 5-min walk. Tower Gateway DLR station is also close by (7-min walk)
Train: London Fenchurch Street Station is a short walk away.
Bus: Routes including 15 and N15 stop nearby at the Tower of London stops.
Car: Closest paid parking is found at the Tower Hill Car Park, but the pier is within the Congestion Charge zone; public transport is highly recommended for your Thames River lunch cruise.

Get directions

From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Siobhan

Feb 2026

‌

The commentary from the crew was brilliant, informative and entertaining. The boat was clean with drinks and snacks on board

Xiang

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

‌

Anne

Feb 2026

‌

Visiting Tower Bridge was great and interesting. Great view 👌✌️ The Tower was also beautiful. But it wasn't my first visit.

Marcela

Mexico

Jan 2026

‌

+1 more

Hannah

South Africa

Jan 2026

‌

Varsha

United Kingdom

Dec 2025

‌

The experience was amazing. One of a kind and unique. It felt like stepping into the painting. Artworka selected were beautiful! Buying tickets through headout was smooth too!

Jackie

United Kingdom

Nov 2025

‌

Jordi

Mar 2026

Trusted by over 48M guests worldwide

100% booking protection

You are fully protected end-to-end. If anything is off, we'll fix it or refund you.

Know more

Enjoy flexible bookings

Book stress-free with free cancellation and pay-later options.

24/7 trip support

We're always a tap away - before, during and after your trip, in all languages.

Verified reviews from real travellers. Trusted by guests worldwide.

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Thames River Lunch Cruises

From happy customers

TL;DR

Find your best Thames River lunch cruise match here