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Explore London by water with this handy Thames River route map

Planning your journey along London’s historic waterway requires understanding its key stopping points and famous stretches. This comprehensive guide and Thames River cruise map breaks down the major zones and piers along the river, from Westminster to Greenwich, ensuring you capture every vital sight.

Thames River cruise map

Thames River cruise route map with landmarks like Tower Bridge, London Eye, and St Paul's Cathedral.

Interactive map

Navigating your way around the Thames River

Use the Thames River cruise map for your journey for the most efficient way to navigate central London's iconic riverside sights. Unlike walking, a Thames River cruise minimises physical exertion while maximising viewing potential.

thames river cruise
  • Hop-On, Hop-Off: Most popular Thames River cruise map routes, like the Westminster to Greenwich path, operate as hop-on, hop-off services. This allows you to choose your order of attractions. You can start near the Houses of Parliament (Westminster Pier) and hop off at key points like the Tower of London (Tower Pier) or historic Greenwich.
  • Minimal walking on board: There is virtually no walking required while cruising; simply relax on the open-air upper decks or in the heated indoor saloons. The only required walking is to and from the piers, which are generally located near major public transport links.
  • Onboard facilities: Modern cruise boats featured on the Thames River cruise map usually include licensed bars serving hot drinks, cold beverages, and snacks. This means you don't need to worry about packing refreshments or finding an eatery mid-cruise.
  • The best stops: Key piers on the Thames River cruise map for sightseeing include Westminster (Big Ben/Parliament), London Eye (South Bank), Tower (Tower of London/Tower Bridge), and Greenwich (Cutty Sark/Royal Observatory). Your ticket is your transport shuttle between these prime locations.

Visitor facilities for your Thames River cruise

  • Restrooms/Toilets: All major cruise boats and River Bus services are equipped with toilet facilities.
  • Accessible toilets: Accessible facilities are available on most modern vessels and larger river boats.
  • Baby changing stations: These facilities are available on larger sightseeing boats and River Bus vessels.
  • Fully licensed bar/café: A wide range of refreshments, including hot and cold drinks, snacks, and alcoholic beverages, can be purchased on board most Thames River cruise boats.
  • Seating areas: All boats offer heated indoor saloons with panoramic windows and spacious outdoor open-air decks for the best views.
  • Audio and commentary: Live English commentary is typically provided, often supplemented by multi-lingual audio commentary apps (available in languages such as French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin).
  • Ramps and wheelchair access: Most major Thames River cruise operators’ vessels and piers (including Westminster, London Eye, Tower, and Greenwich) are step-free and accessible via ramps. However, some piers, particularly upriver piers and a few river bus stops like Cadogan, London Bridge City, and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter, may be inaccessible at certain tides due to steep gangways or steps.
  • Electric wheelchairs: Policies vary; some operators (such as Thames River Sightseeing) may not allow electric wheelchairs, while others (such as Uber Boat by Thames Clippers) welcome all wheelchairs, including electric ones, with designated parking areas. It is highly recommended to check with your specific operator beforehand.
  • Guide and assistance dogs: Guide dogs and other assistance dogs are welcome aboard all major Thames River cruise services free of charge.
  • Pushchairs and buggies: These are generally welcome on board, with plenty of room available on the vessels.
  • Dogs/Pets: Many operators, including Thames River Sightseeing and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, allow well-behaved dogs on leads.

Must-see highlights on your Thames River cruise

Big Ben and Houses of Parliament along the River Thames, London, UK.

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben

The heart of the UK's democracy, featuring the Gothic Revival architecture and the famous Elizabeth Tower (popularly known as Big Ben).

London Eye with nearby buildings, viewed during afternoon tea experience.
Dinner cruise boat on the Thames River passing by Tower Bridge at sunset.
Tower of London with White Tower and medieval fortress walls, United Kingdom.
St Paul's Cathedral exterior with iconic dome, London.

Tips for your Thames River cruise visit

  • Check Tower Bridge lift times: Tower Bridge does not lift on a set schedule. If seeing the bascules raised is a priority for your Thames River cruise, check the bridge's official website schedule beforehand. You can time your cruise segment to be near Tower Pier just as the bridge lifts for river traffic.
  • Choose the upstream/downstream side: The Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London are on the North Bank of the Thames. To get the best close-up views and photos of these iconic structures, aim to sit on the left side of the boat (port side) when travelling east (downstream) and the right side (starboard side) when travelling west (upstream).
  • Validate all-day passes: If you purchase a Hop-on, Hop-off river pass, be aware that you often need to exchange your voucher for a physical ticket or stamp at the first pier you board. This validated pass then acts as your ticket for all subsequent stops marked on the Thames River cruise map.
  • Confirm easternmost stops: Not all sightseeing cruises travel as far east as the Thames Barrier. If seeing this immense flood defence is important, ensure you book a dedicated Thames River cruise service that confirms the Thames Barrier is on its route, typically departing from Greenwich Pier.

Frequently Asked Questions about Thames River route map

Are the cruises suitable for children?

Yes, most Thames river cruises welcome children of all ages. However, certain cruises may have age restrictions, so it's best to check with the cruise operator beforehand.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on board the cruise?

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted on Thames river cruises. However, some cruises offer onboard dining options where you can purchase food and beverages.

Is there a dress code?

While there's no strict dress code, it's recommended to dress comfortably and according to the weather. For evening cruises, you may opt for smart casual attire, especially if dining is included.

Are Thames river cruises wheelchair accessible?

Many Thames river cruises are wheelchair accessible, but it's essential to check in advance to ensure accessibility and make any necessary arrangements.

Do I need to book the cruises in advance?

While some cruises allow for on-the-day bookings, it's highly recommended to book Thames river cruises in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date and time.

What landmarks can I expect to see during a cruise?

Depending on the route, Thames river cruises offer views of iconic landmarks such as the Tower Bridge, London Eye, Houses of Parliament, Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, and more, providing a unique perspective of London's skyline and historic sites.