Thames River

Thames River
London featuring a city, a river or creek and heritage architecture
London which includes boating, a bridge and a river or creek
Thames River which includes a city, a bridge and mist or fog
London featuring city views, a city and a river or creek


Sail on the water or walk along the riverbank to admire the scenery and take a trip through time on London’s great river.

London’s long and tumultuous history is written upon the face of the city, and the River Thames has watched it all. A 19th-century Member of Parliament, John Burns, said it best: “The Mississippi is muddy water, but the Thames is liquid history.” In modern-day London, history comes to life on the 70 wharves, which have remained in operation after centuries. As you make your way down the river’s dark waters, you will enjoy a unique snapshot of life in this dynamic but resolutely historical city. 

Any trip down the Thames is a trip into London’s mighty past, as the story of this river is entwined with the history of London and its surrounds. The current London Bridge is located near the site where the Romans built the river’s first bridge, some two millennia ago. By the post-industrial Victorian era, London was notorious for its dreadful public health conditions and the Thames had become more or less an open sewer. Eventually, however, the river was cleaned up. Some say the decision to clean the river came about because the members in the riverside House of Parliament at the time could no longer bear the smell.

Today, the Thames is far more hygienic and atmospheric. A variety of companies offer cruises of the river. For an unforgettably picturesque experience, take a cruise around sunset. Adventurous visitors might prefer to row their own way down the river, starting in the clear Upper Thames and passing through Windsor before winding into the heart of London. 

Take a walk along the Thames Path to enjoy a fine city hike. The path will take you past famous sights, including the Millennium Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the Tower Bridge, as well as some of London’s quieter zones. The views along the river are beautiful, so remember to bring your camera.

The River Thames is easily accessible from most London locations. Look online to survey the various cruise and tour offerings available.

Popular places to visit


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Zedwell Piccadilly Circus

Zedwell Piccadilly Circus

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Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge

Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge

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Strand Palace Hotel

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The Tower Hotel, by Thistle

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The Grand at Trafalgar Square

The Grand at Trafalgar Square

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The Royal Horseguards, London

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Club Quarters Hotel, Trafalgar Square

Club Quarters Hotel, Trafalgar Square

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Club Quarters Hotel, Trafalgar Square
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Park Plaza County Hall London

Park Plaza County Hall London

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Thames River

Explore the vibrant culture along the Thames River, where you can indulge in captivating theatre performances and engaging art exhibitions. Art lovers will find an array of galleries showcasing contemporary and classic works, while the nearby shopping districts offer a delightful mix of high-street and boutique stores. Whether you're seeking artistic inspiration or a unique shopping experience, the Thames River area has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the Thames River, visit Borough Market, just 1.6km away for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Selfridges and the Royal Exchange, both 3.2km away, offer a mix of luxury brands and vibrant city vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore further afield for unique finds.

Recreation

At the O2 Arena, immerse yourself in high-energy sports events, perfect for an invigorating day out. The ABBA Arena offers vibrant music concerts, ensuring a lively atmosphere. For relaxation, Hampstead Heath provides a serene natural space, ideal for leisurely strolls and unwinding amidst lush greenery.

Adventure

At the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station, experience breathtaking views as you soar above the Thames River in a cable car gondola, located 9.7km away. For climbing enthusiasts, Vertical Chill offers thrilling indoor climbing adventures, only 805m from the river. Alternatively, enjoy high-speed excitement at Oasis Go-Kart Track, situated 3.2km away.

Nightlife

The Thames River comes alive at night with thrilling adventures. Take a ride on the London Eye for stunning views, explore the eerie tales at the London Dungeon, or enjoy a romantic film at Cine Lumiere. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere to enhance your evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Thames River

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, seeking family-friendly activities, or simply wanting to explore the vibrant atmosphere, the Thames River offers an array of attractions. From charming streets and lively piazzas to historic churches, there's something for every traveller. Discover the rich heritage and scenic beauty that surrounds this iconic river, ensuring a memorable visit to one of England's most beloved locales.

  • Buckingham Palace: Experience the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Located 1.4km from the Thames, immerse yourself in royal culture as you witness the Changing of the Guard or explore the stunning State Rooms during summer openings.
  • Piccadilly Circus: Just 1.1km from the Thames, Piccadilly Circus is a vibrant hub of city life. Famous for its neon lights and bustling atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for people-watching, dining, and shopping, encapsulating the essence of London.
  • Big Ben: Standing proudly 322m from the Thames, Big Ben is an iconic clock tower that symbolizes London. Its impressive architecture and historical significance make it a must-see, especially when illuminated at night.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Thames River

To save money on your trip to the Thames River, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best deals, with Sundays being the cheapest days to stay. Utilise Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotels and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Look for last-minute deals and filter for eco-friendly options to save further. Remember, walking is a great way to explore the area without spending on transport.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Thames River are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Thames River about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Thames River is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Thames River is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Thames River hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.