Posted by The Thames is the big river in London. It flows right through the center and divides the city into two parts. The majority of London’s major landmarks are immediately adjacent to or less than two kilometers from the Thames. The most important parts of the city center and most of the sights are located north of the Thames.
The most popular excursion by boat on the ThamesMeanwhile, a large part of London tourists take a boat trip on the Thames. Of course, everyone wants to see the center of London from the ship. Thus, the most popular boat tour is from Westminster to Greenwich, that is, across the city center of London. Very often booked tour, you should book online in advance: >>> At Getyourguide.com you can buy tickets for the ships on the river Thames |
The Thames in London
The Thames has a length of about 350 km. A few kilometers after London it becomes much wider and finally flows into the sea. Once the Port of London was the largest seaport in the world. But in the last 30 years, container ships have become larger and larger. The Thames is too narrow and is not deep enough for the new ocean giants. Thus, in recent years, large parts of the square kilometer harbor district have been rebuilt into new, modern neighborhoods. The new Docklands are the symbol of modern London.
Tip: Harry Potter 2024 Excursion (Warner Brothers Studio Tour)One of the popular excursions in London is to the film studios, where the Harry Potter films were shot. The location of the studios is about 30 kilometres north of London near the town of Watford. The tour includes a bus transfer from London and has very good reviews. A “must” for every Harry Potter fan on holiday in London. The trip by bus and the visit to the film studios takes around 7 hours. You should book early, the popular Harry Potter excursion from London is often sold out. The alternative journey by public transport is not so easy. The excursion to the Warner Brothers Studios is for many London holidaymakers the highlight of their trip. >>>>> On this page you can find more info and book the tour.
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Above all, offices have been created in the financial capital of Europe. Across from the Docklands on the other bank of the Thames is London Greenwich. The prime meridian passes through this famous part of the city. This is where the time, the famous Greenwich Mean Time (GTP), was set. It corresponds to British winter time.
Our tip: London PassThe best city ticket for tourists. It includes free entry to the Tower, London Zoo, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle and The Shard skyscraper. Plus a city tour by bus and a great boat trip on the Thames. A total of about 85 attractions included! The London Pass is available for 1 day or several days (up to 10 days). Pays off for almost every tourist who wants to visit the sights and the city of London. Our recommendation for a city trip to London! >>> More info and booking |
Bridges
In London there are many bridges over the river Thames. The most famous one is Tower Bridge London. The most modern one is a new pedestrian bridge, the Millennium Bridge. It connects the art museum Tate Modern and the famous church St Pauls.
The Millennium Bridge in the center of London (England)
Sights on the river
Also directly on the Thames are the clock tower Big Ben London and about opposite the world-famous gigantic Ferris wheel London Eye. There is hardly any shipping traffic in the form of cargo ships in the center of London on the Thames. Instead, there are many smaller passenger ships that are used as public transportation. Every day they bring thousands of people to work on the Thames. Also for the tourists, the boats are a convenient way to see London from a completely different perspective and at the same time get around London.
Tip: Excursion from London Harry Potter Film Studios by Bus (Warner Brothers Studio Tour)
The most popular excursion by boat on the ThamesMeanwhile, a large part of London tourists take a boat trip on the Thames. Of course, everyone wants to see the center of London from the ship. Thus, the most popular boat tour is from Westminster to Greenwich, that is, across the city center of London. Very often booked tour, you should book online in advance: >>> At Getyourguide.com you can buy tickets for the ships on the river Thames |
Interesting boat tours on the Thames in London
Various providers offer trips on excursion boats on the Thames. Such boat tours in London past important landmarks have become increasingly popular among tourists in recent years.
One operator offers particularly popular trips at a low price for London:
Boat tour on the Thames with lunch are offered: more information here »
Boat trip with real British tea at teatime in the afternoon: more information here »
Romantic sunset boat trips: more information here »
Reviews from participants on these excursion trips are quite overwhelmingly very positive.
Speedboat trips London: If you need more action, you can take part in a Speedboot-Trip on the Thames in the middle of London.
Boat tours in LondonThe Thames flows through the heart of London. Many different boat tours are offered on the river. An overview of around 10 boat trips in London can be found on the following link, all of which can be booked online:——>>>> London Boat Tours Overview |
London Eye Wheel: Buy your ticket beforehandThe average number of passengers in the London Eye is about 10,000 per day, in high season and at weekends it is much higher. Thus, there is often a big crowd. The queues at the cash desks of the London Eyes are often long. Hours of waiting time are frequent. Therefore, it makes sense to buy the ticket in advance on the internet. |
Note: Other sockets in London
If you want to charge your cell phone and laptop in the UK, you need an adapter. Such a simple extension (costs only a few euros) should be obtained from Amazon before the trip: Amazon socket adapter »
The source and mouth of the river
The river rises near the town of Kemble in southern England. The name of the source is Thames Head. From the place Lechlade the River Thames is navigable. After passing through London, the River Thames reaches the sea at Southend. It is by far the most famous river in England.
Find out more about the River Thames in London
One of the most famous waterways in the world, the Thames is an integral part of London’s history and culture. Here’s what you need to know about the River Thames in London.
History of the Thames
The Thames has played an important role in the history of London for thousands of years. Used for transport, trade and defense since Roman times, it has been the site of many important events in British history, including the Great Fire of London and the Blitzkrieg during World War II.
Length and location
The Thames is 346 kilometers long and flows through southern England. It begins in the hills of the Cotswolds and flows through Oxford, Reading, Windsor and London before emptying into the North Sea.
Bridges
There are more than 30 bridges across the River Thames in London, including iconic structures such as Tower Bridge, London Bridge and Millennium Bridge. These bridges offer great views of the river and city.
River Cruises
One of the best ways to explore the Thames is on a river cruise. There are many different types of river cruises, from guided tours to dinner cruises. A river cruise offers a unique perspective on the sights and architecture of London.
Tourist Features
The Thames is home to many famous sights such as the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the Globe Theatre. These sights offer a glimpse into London’s rich history and culture.
Activities
Kayaking, paddling, sailing and many other activities are available on the Thames. Numerous companies offer water sports and activities that allow visitors to experience the river in a unique way.
River Walk
A stroll along the River Thames is an excellent way to explore the city and enjoy its sights. The Thames Pass is a national footpath that follows the river for 294 kilometers (184 miles) and passes through many interesting towns and villages.
Boat tours in LondonThe Thames flows through the heart of London. Many different boat tours are offered on the river. An overview of around 10 boat trips in London can be found on the following link, all of which can be booked online:——>>>> London Boat Tours Overview |
Festivals and events
The River Thames hosts a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year including the Henley Royal Regatta, the Great River Races and the Thames Festival. These events celebrate the river and its importance to the city.
Wildlife
The Thames is home to a wide variety of wildlife including seals, otters and a variety of bird species. There are numerous parks and wildlife sanctuaries along the river that offer opportunities for wildlife viewing.
How to get there?
The River Thames is easily accessible by public transport and there are many tube and bus stations near the riverbank. The river is also accessible by train, with many stops in towns along the route.
Safety Considerations
When exploring the Thames, it is important to keep an eye on tide levels. Because the water level can rise quickly without warning. Also, avoid bathing in the river as the current can be strong and dangerous.
Did you know?
The Thames was so polluted that it was declared biologically dead in the 1950s. Since then, however, it has been purged and now supports a thriving ecosystem.
The river’s source is in Teddington, 25km from central London.
The Thames Barrier is a mobile flood defense system located downstream from central London. It was designed to protect cities from storm surges and flooding.
The Thames has inspired many artists and writers