dinner cruise on the thames in london

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Shop all birthday gifts, special offers, for business, gift finder, dinner on the thames.

Combine delicious dining and fantastic views with a dinner on the Thames, perfect for a memorable treat or a unique gift. Enjoy a relaxing dinner on a boat, gliding past London’s iconic riverside landmarks with great food and attentive service. You can even combine your Thames dinner cruise with another exciting London attraction or escape the hustle and bustle with our wide array of other dinner cruises.

Thames Dinner Cruise for Two

• 3 hour cruise past famous London landmarks
• Enjoy a delicious four course meal, plus a bottle of wine to share
• Available on selected days

Thames Lunch Cruise for Two

• Cruise past London landmarks including The Shard, Big Ben and The London Eye
• Enjoy a two-course meal with tea and coffee
• Available throughout the year

Afternoon Tea Cruise on The Thames for Two

• An afternoon tea of cakes, scones with cream and jam and sandwiches
• Tea or coffee
• Available any day throughout the year, with exclusions

Sindhu by Atul Kochhar Three Course Lunch with Prosecco for Two

• Take a delicious lunch on the Thames, at Atul Kochhar’s Sindhu, Marlow
• Three courses of inspired Indian cuisine and a glass of Prosecco each
• Available Monday to Friday

Sindhu by Atul Kochhar Three Course Weekend Lunch with Cocktail for Two

• Tuck into three courses of superb Indian cuisine, brought to you by Michelin starred chef Atul Kochhar
• Enjoy a Kir Royale cocktail each whilst overlooking picturesque riverside views
• Available Saturdays and Sundays

Thames Jazz Dinner Cruise for Two

• Cruise the Thames to the sophisticated sounds of jazz
• Live entertainment from ChiJazz alongside a three-course meal
• Available selected days

Sindhu by Atul Kochhar Seven Course Tasting Menu for Two with Signed Cookbook

• Enjoy a delicious tasting evening on the Thames, at Atul Kochhar’s Sindhu, Marlow
• Seven course tasting menu of inspired Indian cuisine plus a souvenir cookbook
• Available for dinner Sunday to Thursday

Evening Thames Cruise for Two with Bubbly and Canapes

• 2 hour evening Thames cruise including live music
• Selection of delicious canapes and a glass of bubbly on arrival, plus stunning evening views of the sights of London from the heated lower saloon or open upper deck
• Available on selected days. Date restrictions may apply

Riverside Three Course Meal with Wine for Two in Oxford

• Beautiful riverside setting in Historic Oxford
• A three course meal with a glass of wine
• Available weekdays and weekends

London Eye and Three Course Meal with Fizz at Skylon for Two

• Take a trip on the iconic lastminute.com London Eye
• Three-course set menu and arrival glass of bubbles at Skylon
• Available selected days throughout the year

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of dining experiences are available on the thames.

There are various types of dining experiences available, including:

• Lunch and dinner cruises
• Afternoon tea cruises
• Riverside restaurants

What types of cuisine are available on the dining cruises?

The cuisine on offer can vary between providers, but typically, dining cruises offer a range of dishes from traditional British cuisine to international cuisines such as French. 

Can dietary requirements be accommodated on the dining cruises?

Most dining cruise providers can accommodate dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. It's best to inform the provider in advance of any dietary requirements. 

What is the dress code for riverside restaurants?

The dress code can vary between venues and the type of dining experience, but generally, smart casual attire is recommended. 

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London River Dinner Cruise

London river dinner cruise overview.

Take your London exploration beyond the cliché, and come aboard the famous London River Dinner Cruise. The Thames, which runs through the heart of the UK capital, is the centre of many luxurious river cruises that promise stunning views of London and its iconic attractions. From London Eye to Big Ben, View from the Shard to St. Paul Cathedral , witness all the landmarks on your itinerary as you sail through the winding river on a relaxing cruise boat. One of the top Thames river cruises are the dinner cruises that offer unmatched views of the city at night-time with sumptuous dinner courses for you and your loved ones.

Celebrate special occasions or spend valuable time with your loved ones or even conduct corporate events on the Gold and Platinum Thames Dinner Cruises, where you get fine dining and drinks as you explore London’s charm. Indulge in live singing and dancing on the London Dinner Cruise with Live Performance, or enjoy foot-tapping melodies as a jazz quintet performs on the London Friday Night Jazz Cruise. And if London’s mysterious lanes bring out the detective in you, then you are in for a memorable experience as you hop on board the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise.

London River Dinner Cruise Deals

Sail across the heart of London, witnessing the beautiful sunset & prominent destinations on this 3-hour Dinner Cruise

Head to the open-roof decks to witness spectacular night views over the London skyline

Settle in the lounge area for an exciting cruise tour as you're welcomed with the finest wine

Devour a delicious 4-course meal (British Dishes) as you spend quality time with your family and friends

Complement your evening with live entertainment by Cabaret singers and dancers

Capture the moment as you see attractions like The Shard, London Eye, HMS Belfast, & St. Paul's Cathedral

• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
• We do not guarantee that products are free from nuts or traces of nuts. For gluten-free tea give at least 24 hours’ notice.
• No allergies or dietary requirements can be catered for on the day of travel.
• Not wheelchair accessible.
• Stroller accessible.
• Service animals allowed.
• Infants must sit on laps.
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.
• Boarding begins 20 minutes before departure time.
• When you board you will be shown to your table. Please note tables are fixed and within close proximity. Our panoramic windows provide great views from all angles of the passing sky-line, regardless of your table location.
• Your seat on board is guaranteed and will be allocated to you before the cruise takes place.
• Please note that as part of the relaxed atmosphere of this cruise experience, your table may be situated in close proximity to other guests.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers.
• Infants in the age group of 0-4 years can avail of this experience for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children above the age of 5 years will be considered adults and have to pay as per the adult cost.
• All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.

Highlights of London River Dinner Cruise

• Sail across the heart of London and witness the breathtaking views of the city’s major attractions as the sun sets on the London River Dinner Cruise.
• The three-hour cruise welcomes you with the finest wine and offers fascinating night-time views of the London skyline from the open-roof decks.
• Unwind in the lounge area of the cruise as you witness live entertainment by talented cabaret singers and graceful dancers.
• Relish mouth-watering three-course and five-course meals with your loved ones in the stunning backdrop of a London evening as you sail across the Shard, the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, HMS Belfast, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and several other prominent London tourist hotspots.

Top London River Dinner Cruises

Exploring London on foot is common, try something special by hopping on a Thames River cruise for witnessing all of London’s major landmarks. These London River Dinner Cruises promise heavenly meals for you to relish with your loved ones or even business partners as you indulge in mesmerising evening views of the UK capital.

One of the best experiences you can enjoy in London, the Gold Thames Dinner Cruise takes you on an evening tour of London. Indulge in stunning views of London’s prominent landmarks with your loved ones or corporate clients as you relish a freshly-prepared delicious three-course meal. The Gold London Dinner Cruise includes a three-hour river cruise, an aperitif, a three-course set meal prepared by a talented head chef from locally sourced seasonal produce, a half bottle of fine wine per guest, and soothing live music. The boarding point of this exciting experience is at Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London.

If you wish to explore the iconic landmarks of London in their evening glory, then the Platinum Thames Dinner Cruise is the ideal option for you. An elegantly luxurious experience, this London Dinner Cruise offers unforgettable views of the city and its highlights as you unwind and enjoy sumptuous meals with your loved ones or business partners. The Platinum Thames Dinner Cruise includes a memorable three-hour river cruise, an aperitif upon arrival, a delicious seasonal a la carte five-course meal with delicacies from international cuisines, free-flowing selected fine wines, and gentle live music. The boarding point of the cruise is at Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London.

Enjoy an unforgettable evening as you indulge in the stunning night-time views of London and its landmarks on the London Dinner Cruise with Live Performance. Unwind with your loved ones in settings reminiscent of a posh restaurant as you relish an amazing four-course meal and enjoy a musical live performance of top hits and show songs. The non-window package includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, sparkling wine on arrival, a four-course set meal, and a live singing and dance performance. The window package, on the other hand, includes all of the above and offers a window table that seats two people. The boarding point for this experience is Westminster Pier.

If jazz music is your jam, dress up in your finest smart casual wear as you head for an unforgettable night out on the London Friday Night Jazz Cruise. Sail through London as you savour unmatched evening views of the city and its attractions, all while enjoying live jazz music and a delicious and elegant three-course meal. This cruise experience includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, a three-course set meal, and live jazz performance. You can also book a window seat for two to enjoy this enthralling experience. The boarding point of this London Dinner Cruise is Westminster Pier.

If London’s reputation as the hub of detectives is what draws you to the city, then you need to book the Murder Mysteries Dinner Cruise. Sail across London on a cruise that promises bewitching night-time views of the city and its attractions and a delicious three-course meal. But that’s not all, as you also need to find out a murderer who hides among the passengers of the cruise. This London River Dinner Cruise includes a three-hour Thames River cruise, a welcome drink on arrival, a sumptuous three-course meal, and fun and interactive Murder Mystery entertainment. You can also get a window table for two to enjoy this memorable experience. The boarding point of the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise is Tower Pier.

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Other London River Cruise Deals

What are the top attractions to spot while on the London River Dinner Cruise?

• London Eye : Witness London’s most iconic attraction, the London Eye, which is the world’s tallest cantilever wheel. Visitors get a bird’s eye view of the entire city as they board this wheel.
• St. Paul’s Cathedral : One of the most stunning architectural marvels of the city, the St. Paul’s Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of London.
• The Shard : London’s modernity is reflected in its ever-changing skyline, a prominent attraction of which is the ultra-modern architectural marvel, the skyscraper Shard.
• Tower Bridge : Tower Bridge is one of the most renowned landmarks of London, and has for a century stood as the defining attraction of the city and even the UK.

What is the best time to take the London Dinner River Cruise?

The best time to take the London River Dinner Cruise is in the evenings. As the city and its attractions light up at night, the views on offer are unmatched. Witness the enthralling evening views of Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, the Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Thames, and so on.

How long does the London River Cruise last?

The London River Dinner Cruises last for three hours. The timings for the different cruises vary, but they sail for three hours in the evenings from different piers on the Thames River.

What is the minimum age to buy tickets for the London River Dinner Cruise?

London River Dinner Cruises are open to visitors of all ages. Children less than four years of age do not require tickets when they are accompanied by a paying adult. Children above the age of four years need tickets and are supposed to pay the same as adults.

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Are pets allowed to take the London River Dinner Cruise?

Pet dogs are allowed on the London River Dinner Cruises as long as they are kept on a leash and sit with the owners. Pets are not allowed to sit on separate seats on board the cruise.

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• River Thames Cruises

The most sophisticated London Dinner Venue offering breath-taking views of Central London, join us on board for the Thames Dinner Cruise

The Thames Dinner Cruise compliments a modern four course British Cuisine freshly cooked on board. Enjoy the stunning sights of London whilst relaxing to a resident live band preforming on the night. There is no other way to celebrate a special event with our fine food and extensive wine list. Boarding takes place from the Westminster Pier located opposite the Westminster Underground Station. Our unique Thames Dinner Cruise offers the best in spectacular views, taking you past the Houses of Parliament, under the major iconic bridges such as London Bridge & Tower Bridge heading towards the Docklands, Millennium Dome and finally to the Thames Flood Barrier. It’s the perfect way to see London with the comfort and panoramic views from the classic M.V Millennium boat, whilst enjoying a freshly prepared four course Silver Service Dinner.

Cruise Highlights Menu Days of Operation Schedule Timings Boarding Location

Cruise Highlights

• 2hr 45min Showboat Dinner Cruise
• Welcome sparkling wine on arrival
• Central Pier Embarking
• A set quality four course meal
• Live Performer and dancing on Board
• Fabulous viewing from the upper deck

£91.00 per person

Welcome Drink on Arrival Scottish Smoked Salmon Mousse with Mustard and Dill Centre, King Prawns with a Lemon and Cucumber served with Ciabatta 

Tomato, Roast Pepper and Basil Soup

Garlic and Herb marinated corn -fed Chicken breast, which is served with Dauphinoise Potato, Red Wine Sauce and Seasonal Vegetables

Lemon Meringue Tart, Served with berry coulis

Vegetarian Menu

Burrata Salad, includes Cherry tomatoes, pumkin seeds, basil pesto, purple basil along side with Ciabatta bread

Cassoulet, includes an Oyster Mushroom and a White Bean Cassoulet, Herb & Pamasan Crust,

Seasonal Vegatbles with Dauphine Patatoes 

Lemon Meringue Tart, served with raspberry coulis 

The company does not guarantee that products are free from nuts or traces of nuts. Gluten free meals are available with 24 hours' advance notice. Please note the vegetarian menu must be pre-ordered before the day of sailing. We are unable to take vegetarian menu orders on the night. Fresh fruit salad dessert is available on request

Days of Operation

Daily Monday - Sunday all year round

Schedule Timings

Boarding 19:30 Boat Departs 19:45 Boat Returns 23:00

Boarding Location

Boarding takes place from the Westminster Pier

Nearest Underground Station: Westminster

Address: Westminster Pier Victoria Embankment London SW1A 2JH Google Map

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I would like to thank you very much for providing a great friendly service yesterday aboard the Thames princess . My friends did nothing but praise your hospitality, with great food and service.

Unfortunately I was unwell to attend my own birthday celebration. The cake was a very kind gesture thank you . But all my friends have agreed we will book again with you so I can experience the lovely time they had with your boat tour.

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River Thames Cruises Unit 4a, Tower Workshops 58 Riley Road London SE1 3DG 020 7237 9111

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Dinner and Jazz Cruise on the River Thames

• Cruise past top attractions, like Big Ben, the London Eye, and more
• Feel the romance as you glide through London's lights by night
• Savor a gourmet 3-course dinner and listen to live jazz
• Start the night with a chilled glass of sparkling wine
• Thames River cruise
• 3-course dinner
• Live entertainment
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Drinks, unless specified
• Westminster Pier, London SW1A 2JH, UK
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• Dress code is smart casual
• Minimum drinking age is 18 years
• Your seat on board is guaranteed and will be allocated to you before the cruise takes place. When you board you will be shown to your table. Please note tables are fixed and within close proximity. Our panoramic windows provide great views from all angles of the passing sky-line, regardless of your table location.
• Most travellers can participate
• We do not guarantee that products are free from nuts or traces of nuts. For gluten-free tea give at least 24 hours’ notice. For any special dietary requirements please call Reservations on 020 77 400 400 or e-mail to [email protected].
• Please note that as part of the relaxed atmosphere of this cruise experience, your table may be situated in close proximity to other guests.
• Please ensure you arrive 20-minutes prior to departure time
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travellers
• If you cancel at least 4 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 3 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
• Tower of London
• HMS Belfast
• Tower Bridge
• Houses of Parliament

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• cornali79 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great cruise and value Cruise was great and zahra made it even better!! Boat left on time and wasn’t overly booked. Staff was all very kind and helpful and even told a couple jokes. Must say Zahra who worked the refreshment counter was great , funny and even suggested other things to do during our stay here in London. Definitely recommend this tour. Read more Written 24 April 2024
• Pamela051 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Please keep the live commentary My partner had not done this trip before, but had heard from his friend (a Londoner) and me how good it would be. In the event our return journey was far better than the outward one. This purely because there was no live commentary on the outward journey. Whilst I downloaded the app for my partner to listen to that commentary it didn't work well and spoiled the entire outward journey. Spending far too much time on the phone and missing many of the places of interest. We felt cheated, of what should have been and enjoyable and informative journey. Had we known before that there'd be no live commentary, as expected, we would have gone on the quicker Uber boat. HOWEVER our return journey was, as expected, with live commentary. Therefore we could look, listen, learn and enjoy that experience completely. Many thanks for that, it very much saved the day. Read more Written 24 April 2024
• LoveTravel691596 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Not bad On booking the trip it says one way and then return where you started , a bit confusing. Well it was only one way and you’d have to pay again to get back, so wrong info given when booking. Read more Written 22 April 2024
• Trek34116359585 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day out -entertaining and educational way to see London A great way to see London, brilliant live commentary - very entertaining and educational. I highly recommend this trip Read more Written 22 April 2024
• John C 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Can you bring us some water Beautiful visuals lovely music but subpar service. We didn’t receive water for about 45 minutes despite several requests Read more Written 22 April 2024
• sassyandmike 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A well oiled machine We were so impressed with the organisation and slickness of the crew. A delicious and generous high tea was served with precision and efficiency, as we were entertained an excellent commentary. So impressed with the whole experience. Read more Written 21 April 2024
• Z3261FXjasonh 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Disappointing Paid extra for a window seat and was shown to a non window seat. When we said we paid extra for the window seat we were rudely told we would have to wait till everyone boarded and then see what was left available. Staff were surly and food wasn't very nice. The tea was luke warm and stewed and had been been made well before we boarded. The scones were hard and we didn't even get clotted cream for them. Very ,very disappointed, the views from the boat were great but that is London , nothing to do with London cruises. Would not book again Read more Written 18 April 2024
• adamb156 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles River Thames Day Cruise We had a great time sightseeing on the cruise and the staff was amazing!!! Simon and Gary made our trip spectacular and helped keep the kids entertained while we enjoyed the scenery. I’d highly recommend taking the cruise all the way to Greenwich Read more Written 16 April 2024
• VenkannaB_13 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Good cruise . But expensive on Viator The cruise is excellent. But information is minimum. You can start from Westminster Pier and stay on the boat and return. We did not know this till we reached London pier But even after purchase with discount it was expensive. You can purchase local ticket at just $46 per family Read more Written 14 April 2024
• O4366KCmissm 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles 24 hour hop on/off is a good choice! Very good commentary. Wasn't a recorded audio or usual tour guide, but English crew. Being a london girl, I appreciated his humour. He was very funny and actually very knowledgable about the landmarks which I thought I already knew about. But I learnt some new facts! It took me a while to decide whether or not to choose city cruises as I'd read some dodgy reviews. But they were great. We didn't use the toilets and it did run a but behind schedule but nothing major. We bought the 24 hour hop on/off. It was better than getting the train and good way to explore. Read more Written 13 April 2024
• paigesS1882RC 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely afternoon tea cruise Real special afternoon treat. I took my mother in law for her birthday. (70th). The staff were friendly and directed us to our seat. The food was amazing and really tasty. We both had tea. The only negative would be that we never got offered more drinks. We had window seats which was worth the extra pay. Despite the rainy grey London weather still had great views! Would definitely recommend. Read more Written 12 April 2024
• J4926ZDpeterb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Thames River Excellent Thames river cruise. Commentary from crew members made the trip from Westminster Pier to Greenwich Pier (and back) even more enjoyable. Read more Written 11 April 2024
• 897muddy 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely on board staff but annoying boat cancellation that spoiled the experience We bought a Go City explorer pass and this was one of the trip options. Four stops are advertised, though one is not really a different destination as Westminster and London Eye are just on opposite sides of the river at the same location. Great on board commentary though not a full “tour guide” type, which wasn’t part of the advertised package but funny and interesting never the less. Staff were lovely on board. Irritating that a boat was cancelled but the person scanning our ticket at the London Eye stop didn’t tell us so we wasted 30 mins hanging out on the cold pier when we could have been walking around taking photos etc or sat in the park with a drink. This meant our time was cut short and we couldn’t do the Greenwich part of the trip because we were going to the theatre and the children had got fed up with the extra waiting. There were lots of Uber boats that came and went whilst we were waiting, maybe that would have been a better option? The views from the boats were great though. Would give 3.5 stars if could. Read more Written 9 April 2024
• jude7525 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Please look after people with disabilities better ! Once onboard, it was a positive experience, great entertainer on board and good food. The poor element was the lack of facilities for a disabled guest. We had to put down a firm foot to obtain a ramp - and the staff were irritated by our insistence despite us having requested the ramp and received confirmation. There was no boarding staff visible before the boat arrived and no facility to allow a disabled passenger immediate access - instead he had to queue (not good). The person boarding us actually asked me to complain because he was not aware that the ramp was required. Read more Written 9 April 2024
• traveller10101010 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles AVOID at all costs. Unfortunately I have to report that my experience with this company is awful and I would recommend anyone reading this find an alternative cruise operator. Having obtained vouchers beforehand, and read through every element of the terms and conditions, I was informed upon arrival that they now read differently and I could not use my vouchers for the cruise I needed. The impossibly rude ticket booth attendant seemed to take great joy in telling me I couldn't use my vouchers, and in turn making my 6 year old upset. No reasoning was offered, no assistance was offered, and the only solution was to hand over £80, which I was not willing to do. I will also be logging a formal complaint with the company and with my voucher provider as the experience was unacceptable, made 100 times worse by the human being. May as well replace them with self serve ticket machines. Read more Written 7 April 2024

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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You are here: Things to Do > Evening Dinner Cruises on the Thames with City Cruises

Evening Dinner Cruises on the Thames with City Cruises

Type: boat trip.

Tel: +44 (0)20 77 400 400

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Enjoy an evening in London on a Thames dinner cruise!

There's plenty of choice. Choose from:

July 2023 City Cruises partner with Aperol Spritz!

Throughout July come onboard our evening cruise and you will be welcomed with the unmistakably fresh orange drink! It will be the perfect way to start your evening plans, come sit on the upper deck and soak in the stunning views while sipping the good vibes! Also, we are providing a drink offer 2 for £12! Only available Monday to Wednesday. Make sure to book online and skip the queues at the ticket office.

London Dinner Cruise on the River Thames

Wine, dine and dance on this great dinner cruise on the River Thames. See spectacular views including the Illiuminated River and enjoy top hits sung by a live performer. 

Cost: £74

Departure: The boat departs from Westminster Pier (SW1A 2JH) at 19.45pm. Boarding commences at boarding point 2 from 19.30pm. Once you’ve wined and dined on the Thames, the boat will return to Westminster Pier at 22.45pm.

Evening Cruise on the River Thames

Sail off into the evening and see London's riverside landmarks at their glittering best on a cruise down the River. Thames. 

Cost: £32

Departure: The boat departs from Tower Pier EC3N 4DT. Boarding at 18.15. Cruising: 18:30 to 20:30

Additional Information

• Unfortunately children under 13 years are not allowed on this cruise.
• Please note that we are unable to accommodate wheelchair users on this cruise

Jazz Dinner Cruise on the River Thames

Smooth, relaxed jazz nights and delicious dinners on the river Thames. 

Cost £74

Departure: Boat deaprts from Westminster Pier SW1A 2JH. Boarding at 19.45. Cruising: 20:00 to 23:00

Guide Prices

Adult (18+) - incl. half bottle of wine* £81.00 Champagne Package for 2 (18+) Mon to Fri £207.00 Champagne Package for 2 (18+) Sat - Sun £217.00 Child (5-17) £81.00 Window Supplement - Per Table of 2 £10.00 Weekend Supplement from £5.00

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The 5 Best Thames River Dinner Cruises [2024 Reviews]

While you are in london enjoy a sightseeing and dinner cruise on the thames river.

London is certainly a hot spot for tourists and locals alike, as it has just about everything you could want or need. The Thames river and surrounding areas are particularly popular, with beautiful views of the water, bridges, and more.

Dinner cruise tours have quickly grown in popularity, offering a relaxing way to enjoy a delicious meal with an elegant twist. If you’re looking for a great restaurant, may as well take it up a notch and enjoy one of these selections!

We’ve taken it upon ourselves to do the “hard” part for you, bringing you the top Thames River dinner cruises in London!

Best Dinner Cruises on the Thames River

Quick answer: the 5 best rated thames river dinner cruises for 2024.

• Best Evening Cruise: River Thames Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music
• Best Dinner Cruise: London Thames River Dinner Cruise
• Best Budget Cruise: London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapés
• Best Value Cruise: London: River Thames Dinner Cruise
• Best Lunch Cruise: Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea

Thames River Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise Reviews

1. best evening cruise: london: river thames dinner cruise with live jazz.

• Duration: 3 hours
• Departure:  Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London
• Departure Time: 8:00 PM
• Includes:   River cruise on Thames,  3-course dinner, welcome drink , l ive band on board, bar offering champagne, Pimm’s, bear & wines

Who doesn’t love dining or drinking in the midst of some good live music? You’ll get all that and more with the River Thames Dinner Cruise with Live Jazz ! You get to choose from a variety of menu options of a 3-course dinner of mouth-watering dishes, with some of the best views of the city!

Lasting around 3 hours, it’s one of the longer tours on our guide. This makes it a great date night activity, or for going out with friends as well! We don’t really recommend it for younger children, however, as the overall theme really is a bit more designed for adults.

Start by boarding the Pleasure Boat at Embankment Pier, which is aptly named considering you’re about to have a ton of fun onboard! Start off by cruising along the famous river, taking in incredible sights from some of the most legendary landmarks!

The Houses of Parliament, the massive London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and more! This also is a great way to check out places to further explore later on, once you’re not on the cruise!

As you listen to amazing live music, you’ll enjoy plates such as: Courgette, green olive, and basil tart, roast chicken, pea a la Francaise, tortellini, potato Devonshire crab tortellini, cherry tomato compote, and an array of mouth-watering desserts!

We really appreciated that the staff welcomes guests to take their time, even after docked, to stay and have some drinks.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best dinner cruise: london thames river sunset dinner cruise.

• Departure: Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2JH
• Departure Time: 7:45 PM
• Includes: Four-course à la carte menu, live entertainment, wine throughout dinner, prosecco, beer and soft drinks

This next cruise is very similar to the one we just covered, and is perfect for small groups or couples. The London Thames River Dinner Cruise is also around 3 hours long, consisting of a couple different dinner options that you’re sure to love.

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the top sights of the city without walking around, this is a great option.

Make sure before anything else, you select the dinner option you want. The Premier Dinner option includes wine and mineral water (however, beer and other alcoholic beverages are extra, regardless of the option you select).

Meet at the Embankment Pier and walk down the ramp to check in and board your elegant Scandinavian cruiser boat for the evening. The staff will welcome you and bring you to your table, where you’ll be able to take in amazing views of the river and the surrounding sights.

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The furniture is beautiful, complete with a dining area, large outer deck for prime viewing, and a glass room which offers great views with protection from the climate even if the weather isn’t ideal. Keep in mind that the menu does change frequently.

With live entertainment, you’ll love watching as you cruise along the river while the sun sets. The relaxed atmosphere combined with the great service and tasty food really makes for a fantastic time.

You’ll see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Tate Modern, London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and even head under the notorious Tower Bridge.

Search For London Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best budget cruise: river thames evening cruise with bubbly and canapés.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure: Tower Millennium Pier, Lower Thames St
• Departure Time: 6:30 PM
• Includes:   Canapes, r iver cruise,  1 glass of sparkling wine or 1 soft drink on arrival

Are you looking for a slightly shorter cruise or maybe one that offers a vibe that’s perfect for socializing with others? If so, check out the London: River Thames Evening Cruise with Bubbly and Canapes .

This is a sunset cruise where you’ll enjoy the beautiful river in both the daytime and nighttime while you listen to smooth jazz and pop while enjoying some sparkling wine and canapes.

From the title alone, you can probably guess that this cruise isn’t ideal for younger children. However, if you have teenagers they’ll probably enjoy the canapes and live music while hanging out on board!

London really is a beautiful city with a fascinating history and architecture to match, so you’re in for a real treat! We found the boat to be very clean, with friendly, well-organized staff who did a great job.

They’ll get you all sorted as the sun starts going down and the lights turn on. Enjoy a refreshing glass of sparkling wine and an array of different canapes as you enjoy the view. They really do offer a nice amount and options of canapes for the price.

You’ll see the usual suspects, like the London Eye, Tower of London, Canary Wharf skyscrapers, Tower Bridge, and much more. The background music consists of a calm jazz and chill-out pop from live performers, which really suits the environment perfectly.

If you’re looking to spend a couple of hours at night before dinner or just want to see some of the most popular attractions from a different perspective, this is a wonderful option.

4. Best Value Cruise: London River Thames Dinner Cruise

• Departure:  Westminster Pier
• Includes:   Dinner and dance boat cruise,  1 glass of sparkling wine per person on arrival,  4-course dinner with tea and coffee

This one is yet another 3-hour dinner cruise that is one of the crowd favorites. The London: River Thames Dinner Cruise is a bit different than most others in that you’ll have live performances and music, but this one includes live cabaret performances!

One thing is for sure – you won’t be short on entertainment! Meet at Westminster Pier to board the boat. We found that the staff and service were incredible right from the beginning.

There’s someone waiting to greet you as you board and will help direct you to make sure everyone knows where they’re going and is taken care of.

As you arrive, you’ll be served a glass of sparkling wine to enjoy before eating dinner. Once you settle at your table, you’ll be served a 4-course meal.

We found each course to be well-timed so you never feel overwhelmed nor waiting around for the next to arrive. The food itself was delicious and looked pretty, too!

After eating dinner, you’ll be offered either a tea or coffee to sip while you enjoy the live singer who sings tunes from West End shows! Dancing is also encouraged, and is definitely likely as the performers really are great at what they do!

It’s definitely a very light-hearted experience, and is even more enjoyable watching some of the most iconic London attractions lit up from the river!

If you’re more into just gazing out at the sights, we suggest heading up to the top deck of the boat! Here, it’s a bit more secluded, quiet, and ideal for taking photos or simply staring in awe at these beautiful landmarks.

5. Best Lunch Cruise: Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Departure: Tower Pier, London
• Departure Time:  3:30 PM
• Includes:  Cruise, afternoon tea – selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones

Are you on the hunt for a cruise that’s shorter and easier to fit into a busy schedule? Perhaps you’re looking for a cruise that’s just scheduled in the daytime? If that sounds like you, then we highly recommend booking the Thames River Sightseeing Cruise with Afternoon Tea .

Lasting 1.5 hours, it’s a fabulous way to incorporate extra sightseeing and relaxation in-between other adventures throughout the day! What is more British than enjoying a luxurious time sipping on tea, delicious cakes, while viewing some of the most important London landmarks?

Meet up at the Tower Pier located in central London to board your elegant boat and get ready for your cruise! We all know that London’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so head into the cozy indoor saloon where you’ll get full panoramas of the shoreline!

The walls are all made of a sturdy glass so you get stunning views without the wind or rain!

You’ll first head by the (supposedly haunted) Tower of London, which has a pretty interesting history of its own. Next, you’ll see the fantastic Shard building which is hard to miss, as it’s almost 100 stories and made of glass!

Shakespeare’s legendary Globe Theatre comes next, followed by the London Eye, South Bank entertainers, Houses of Parliament, and more.

While you check out the sights, enjoy some tea, an array of freshly-baked cakes, scones, and sandwiches.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat a tasty lunch, we highly recommend just boarding this cruise instead! You’ll spend the same amount of time you would at a restaurant, with a lot more to offer!

London Travel Guide

Planning guide for your london trip, airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

If you’re planning a trip to London anytime soon, be sure to add one of the best Stonehenge tours from London to your itinerary. But which ones are the best? We’ve reviewed the top 5 Stonehenge tours and provided you with a guide for visiting both Stonehenge and London.

Most likely, your day trip to Stonehenge from London will be a small part of your vacation to this historic English city. Here, we offer a guide to visiting London, from the airport you will be arriving at to other attractions you may want to visit and even the weather.

Let’s help you make the most of your vacation to London!

There are five airports that service London, England. If you are traveling abroad, you will most likely be arriving at London Heathrow . For shorter flights departing European airports, should you be heading to London from a previous vacation spot, you may fly into one of these smaller London airports:

• London City
• London Gatwick
• London Luton
• London Stansted

To enter the United Kingdom, UK, you will need a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for your entire stay and can’t expire before your expected departure.

Visiting London is unlike visiting any other city on earth. Because of this, you will want to keep some things in mind when planning and packing. We list our top 5 tips for visiting London below. Do you have additional tips to suggest? We’d love for you to comment them below!

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

Much of your travel around the city will be walking. Even when you head out of town for a day tour, such as those to Stonehenge, most of the tours require quite a bit of walking. It’s best to be relaxed wearing athletic shoes instead of wearing more fashionable shoes that can make the necessary walking uncomfortable.

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

Your electric and electronic devices made for use in the US will not work in the UK without a converter or transformer. A converter is made to use with electronics such as your phone or tablet and a transformer with electric devices such as a hairdryer. The US runs on 120 V and the UK on 240. This means that using your US devices without a voltage converter or transformer in the UK may damage them.

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

London receives millions of tourists each year. This means that you will most likely have to book tours well in advance. You should also book your accommodations and reservations in restaurants as soon as possible. This is especially true for tickets to theater events and shows.

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting London, quick showers and rainstorms are always a possibility. It’s best to bring an umbrella with you as purchasing one at a convenient location in the city will most likely cost much more. A collapsible umbrella that is easy to carry with you is ideal.

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

London is quite an expensive city to visit but it’s worth it. Be sure you have budgeted for your flight and accommodations as well as your daily meals. You should have plenty of British pounds, the local currency, on hand as taxis and some stores may not take debit or credit cards. Also, keep in mind that the farther out your trip is planned, the better deals you will get, especially on accommodations.

There are several Dishoom restaurants located around the city. These restaurants serve high quality and delicious Indian food within a modern atmosphere. London is one of the best places to enjoy Indian food outside of India. These restaurants often have a wait but the wait is well worth it.

Not only will you want to experience the delicious Indian food, it also wouldn’t be a trip to London without an afternoon tea. There are plenty of places around town to enjoy your tea, but afternoon tea at The Savoy Hotel, London is something not to be missed. Sketch is another afternoon tea hotspot offering a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a meal with a great view, you’ll want to make reservations at the Duck & Waffle. However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the most popular meal in London, fish and chips, at many local hotspots.

Nightlife in London can be anything you’d like it to be. There are nighttime tours of the city and surrounding areas for something a little more low-key, or you can head to a nightclub or one of the many music venues to turn up the entertainment dial.

From standup comedy and dramatic theater to the trendy clubs of the West End and even the casinos that can be found around town, nightlife in London is perfect for everyone.

As mentioned, visiting London requires a lot of walking. However, you can also choose to ride the subway, board a boat, or even hop on a bus or take a taxi. You may find the subway also referred to as “the underground” or “the tube.”

The cost of transportation by any of these methods will be determined by your destination’s distance from central London. The city and surrounding areas are divided into zones that determine distance and cost. If you’re going to be visiting for at least a few days, you may want to invest in a daily or weekly Travelcard pass .

There are many choices in accommodations when visiting London. You may find a great Airbnb location, and you can also find everything from a small hostel to a five-star, luxury hotel. The accommodations you choose should be determined by your budget, but also by the type of experience you’re looking for. An Airbnb can instantly make you feel like a local.

A hostel can provide plenty of opportunities to meet other tourists and learn more about attractions and eateries. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, the Camden Enterprise Hotel or even the Dorset City London can provide it.

The average low temperatures during the winter months are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit or around 7°C. These mild winter temperatures make London an ideal vacation spot for the holidays. July, London’s hottest month of the year, usually doesn’t reach the 70s Fahrenheit, or above 18⁰ Celsius.

Even with mild temperatures during the summer, it can feel quite humid and you may run into a short shower or two. Once again, always have an umbrella handy.

A vacation to London necessitates a visit to Buckingham Palace . Other attractions include the Coca-Cola London Eye , the Ferris wheel easily seen in every London skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the London Tower, or the Churchill War Rooms.

While in London, be sure to visit one of the many museums and art galleries that can be found in nearly every area of the city. Parks, waterfronts, and bridges provide great photo ops and can provide a beautiful place to rest and take in the local sights.

If you want to see a castle, the Windsor Castle is a don’t miss! This 1000 year old castle has been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there. To fully appreciate the splendor, be sure to take a guided tour of Windsor Castle .

The History, Beauty, in the Cotswolds and Oxford

When planning your vacation to London, be sure to plan for a day trip to the Cortswods  while there. The best guided tour from London to Oxford and the Cotswords will allow you to experience the English countryside.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip on visiting the many museums and art galleries, enjoying some of the best food available, and taking time to appreciate the beautiful mix of modern style and historical sites that London provides.

Enjoy your trip to London!

Food Quality

The Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music is our Editors Choice for the best Thames River dinner cruise

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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Jazz Dinner Cruise on the River Thames | City Cruises™

Great evening.

Steve – TripAdvisor

Just wonderful

Dibleygirl – TripAdvisor

How much is a jazz cruise on River Thames?

Join us on City Cruises Thames Jazz Cruise for £89 per person. It includes a welcome aboard drink, three course meal, three-hour river cruise and live Jazz music.

Does City Cruises have a floating jazz club cruise?

City Cruises welcomes you to a night of Jazz on the Thames. As the London jazz scene is constantly evolving with characterful jazz venues dotted all over the city, come on board for unique floating jazz experience.

Is there a floating jazz club in London?

If you are looking for a unique jazz experience, you’ve come to the right place! City Cruises welcomes you to a night of Jazz on the Thames.

What to wear on a London Jazz cruise?

We encourage smart casual attire on the Jazz Dinner Cruise. However, please feel free to dress for your occasion whether you are celebrating or just heading out for an amazing meal on the Thames.

We would advise against flip-flops, leisurewear and ripped jeans .

Do you need to book in advance for Jazz Cruise?

The Thames Jazz Cruise sails every Friday and you will need to purchase your tickets in advance online before boarding the boat for the Elvis Tribute Dinner Cruise.

Where does a Thames Jazz Cruise in London take you?

The Thames Jazz Cruise takes place on the Thames, departing from Westminster Pier and cruises up and down the Thames with great views of London’s iconic landmarks.

Is there bar on board the Thames Jazz Cruise?

There is a fully equipped bar on our Thames Jazz Cruise that will serve beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks.

Click here to see all Thames dinner cruise FAQs.

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Food & Drink

London dinner river cruise: fine dining on the river thames.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in London, you should definitely consider doing a London dinner river cruise!

Enjoy a lovely three or four course meal from the comfort of a boat, as it cruises up and down the Thames past some of the main landmarks in London .

I recently did a Dinner Showboat Experience with City Cruises , and had an amazing time. If you’re planning your own dinner cruise on the River Thames, but not sure what to expect or which one to book, this is the guide for you!

In this guide I will go over all the logistical information, menu, cruise route, what to expect, prices and more to help you choose your London cruise dinner. So let’s dive straight in!

In this guide:

• 1.1 Where do you board?
• 1.3 Timings
• 1.4 Cruise route
• 1.5 Dinner Showboat Menu
• 2 Our experience with City Cruises
• 3 How to book your London dining cruise

Key information about a River Thames dinner cruise

Before we dive into our experience, I wanted to go over some logistical information.

Where do you board?

The pier from which your cruise will start ultimately depends from the company you do it with. We did our cruise with City Cruises and start our cruise from Westminster Pier.

This is a pretty good one to start as it’s so central and just next to the London Eye and Big Ben; two of the main landmarks in London. You can you get there early and relax, admire the view, maybe snap some fun Instagram shots .

We did the Dinner Showboat, which is priced at £81 per person. This includes half a bottle of wine per person and a four-course meal. If you want a window table it’s a £10 extra charge.

Boarding commences at 19:30 and the boat departs from the pier at 19:45. Be on time since the boat won’t wait! The cruise lasts three hours and you will be back at Westminster Pier around 22:45.

Cruise route

We departed from Westminster Pier and cruised east. We went past all the main landmarks in London, such as the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Shard and Tower Bridge.

We then cruised past the skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, the O2 Arena and all the way to Greenwich. At Greenwich we turned around and cruised back to central London, seeing all the main sights also on the way back.

Dinner Showboat Menu

We were served an incredible four-course menu. I was a bit wary that the focus of the experience would be on the cruise and the food would suffer because of it, but I was pleasantly surprised. The food was delicious.

We were served the following dishes:

• Smoked salmon mousse with king prawns and a salad for starters
• Tomato, roast pepper and basil soup
• Roasted chicken wrapped in Parma ham, served with Dauphinoise potatoes, thyme and red wine sauce and seasonal vegetables as main
• White, dark and milk chocolate truffle cake with raspberry sauce

If you have allergies or dietary requirements they can alter the menu, you just have to make sure to request it beforehand.

Our experience with City Cruises

We did the Dinner Showboat with City Cruises . As a university student in London I had attended loads of boat parties on the Thames, so I was looking for something a bit different.

I was already familiar with the experience of enjoying the London sights from the river, but the fine dining was a new and very welcome experience.

We loved the food and found it was delivered in a timely and organised fashion. We never had to wait much for our plates, which is very impressive given that you’re on a boat after all!

Throughout most of the dinner there is live music going on. There was a band playing and a singer that would wander around and involve the audience.

Once the dinner was over quite a few people stood up and joined her for a bit of a boogie on the dance floor.

If you’re afraid of having issues with seasickness, you don’t have to worry. The river is always pretty calm, there are never any waves that rock the boat. You can comfortably eat without getting sea sick.

Overall it was a very enjoyable experience. The food was lovely, the skyline of London at night is always incredible, and the showboat element was a fun addition to the evening. I can highly recommend it, it’s a must on any London bucket list !

Especially if you’re visiting London in winter or on a rainy day , it’s still a great activity. The dining area is indoors and it allows you to tour around and see London while being cosy and dry indoors.

How to book your London dining cruise

You can book the same Dinner Showboat we did here . Online you can choose your preferred date, seat and dietary requirements.

Click here to book your London Dinner Showboat!

More London Thames dining experiences

The river dinner cruise we did was the “Dining Showboat” by City Cruises, however both City Cruises and other companies offer a lot of different types of cruise dining experiences in London.

Some examples include Sunday brunch , afternoon tea or jazz cruises . Ultimately what type of cruise dining experience you choose is up to your personal preference.

Personally I would recommend doing a fancy dinner or afternoon tea, for a bit of a special occasion. For something like Sunday brunch you could explore one of the many boozy bottomless brunches in London and have more fun!

As far as timings go I would also recommend doing a dinner experience in summer. That way it will still be light when you set off and you can enjoy the beautiful views from the river.

As you cruise the sun will go down and you can then admire the beauty of the London night skyline. I’ve listed below some River Thames cruise dining experiences that you can check out:

• Jazz Dinner Cruise on the River Thames
• London Afternoon Tea Cruise
• London Sunday Brunch Cruise
• River Thames Lunch Cruise

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Final thoughts on doing a River Thames dinner cruise

If you’re looking for a bit of a different dining experience, doing a London dinner river cruise is a great choice.

Even if you’re a Londoner, it gives you the opportunity to see your city from a completely different angle, while enjoying a lovely four-course dinner.

I hope this guide answers all your questions about doing a dinner cruise in London! If you have any questions just let me know in the comments below.

Looking for more London travel advice? Check out these resourecs:

• How to get around London
• London 1-day itinerary
• London 2-day itinerary
• London 5-day itinerary
• Where to stay in London for first time visitors
• 10 best places to stay in London
• The 25 most beautiful places in London
• 33 awesome free things to do in London

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Greta Omoboni is a full time blogger based in London. After 3.5 years of blogging about destinations all over the world on her main site, Greta's Travels, she decided to start a new site, dedicated to her second home and favourite city; London!

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• Dinner Cruises

Dine and dance on this great dinner cruise on the Thames, see spectacular views and enjoy show songs and top hits sung by a live performer. From £87 per person

Enjoy a 3-hour Luxury London Bus Tour with a 6-course dinner and audioguide From £120 per person

A fun and interactive dining experience with great entertainment and stunning views - what better way to enjoy an evening out? From £99 per person

Enjoy a 3-hour Thames River Cruise with a glass of Sparkling Wine on arrival and three-course dinner, accompanied by a live Jazz band. From £99 per person

How to Plan the Perfect Girls Trip to London

L ondon is the perfect destination for a girls’ weekend . It offers the huge benefit of being a major travel hub, which is ideal for finding flight deals or if everyone is visiting from different places. More importantly, England’s historic capital offers so many fun things to do on a girls trip to London, whether you’re traveling with family or friends.

From sipping cocktails with a view of London’s skyline to shopping in iconic department stores, to visiting historic castles, there are endless options to suit your group whether it’s your first time or fifth time in London. This guide has all the info you need including where to stay and and the best places to eat on a trip. Everyone will be talking about this trip for years to come!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

How to Get Around London

London is nearly double the size of New York, so it’s a huge city! Even if you stick to the Central London area (and you probably will), your group will need to use transport to get around. Your main options are public transportation, taxis, and city bikes. With the city’s high congestion and parking charges, renting a car is not the best way to go.

The London Underground is the city’s metro or subway station, and it’s also known as the Tube. It’s by far the most efficient way to get around the city, with 11 lines serving 272 stations. Tapping a contactless credit/debit card on the ticket barriers is the easiest way to pay.

Single journeys between Zone 1 stations cost around £2.70 depending on the time of travel (they are slightly more in peak times). Buy a daily travel card if you plan on traveling via Underground a lot.

While London’s black Hackney cabs can be expensive, they are an essential part of the London experience. You can find them waiting outside of train stations (e.g. Paddington Station, Euston, and King’s Cross). They charge an initial fee of around £2.60 and then £1.70 – 2.30 per km.

Santander Cycles is London’s bike-sharing scheme. There are 800 docking stations and 12,000 bikes in circulation which you just need a contactless card to operate. It costs £1.65 per 30-minute journey. London is not the most bike-friendly city, but cycling through parks and along the Thames might be a fun activity for your London itinerary! 

Best Things To Do on a Girls’ Trip to London

1. hit up the top london museums.

London has almost 200 museums and galleries including 11 national museums. Even better, most of them are free to enter! Here are some of the best museums to check out during your girls’ trip to London:

• British Museum in Bloomsbury
• National Gallery in Trafalgar Square
• Natural History Museum in South Kensington
• Tate Modern Art Gallery in Southwark
• Science Museum in South Kensington
• Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington

The British Museum and the National Gallery (as well as the National Portrait Gallery) are free to visit. They’re also crowd-pleasing, well-located museums in the heart of London near Piccadilly Circus. If you want to soak up some history on your first day in the city, these are great places to visit.

2. Go Shopping in London

One of the main reasons to take a girls’ trip to London is the shopping. London is known for its high-end department stores, legendary flea markets, and home-grown brands. Here are some of the best places to shop in London:

• Selfridges  – Department store on Oxford Street with designer brands, homeware, gifts, and exclusive products
• Liberty London  – Huge high-end fashion and homeware store in a Tudor revival building. Pick up a Christmas ornament!
• Fortnum & Mason  – 18th-century department store famous for tea, biscuits, and other luxury English food staples
• Harrods  – Luxury 19th-century department store with over 3,000 designer brands plus an in-house label
• Hamleys  – Iconic multistory toy store if you’re traveling with moms and they need souvenirs!
• Harvey Nichols  – English department store in Knightsbridge known for selling a huge range of cosmetics
• Bond Street  – Upmarket shopping street lined mostly with art galleries and jewelry stores
• The Apple Market  – Cross between a street market and mall in Covent Garden
• Portobello Road Market  – 19th-century fresh produce market turned famous antique and gift market in Notting Hill
• Brick Lane  – East London’s hip shopping street selling vintage clothing, records, second-hand books, and more

Leave plenty of room in your suitcase!

3. Book a Unique City Tour of London

If you don’t have much time to explore London, a great travel tip is to book a city tour. It’s a great way to see all the hot spots from a local guide who knows their stuff.

There are many unique ways to see the city. If you’re all partial to London dry gin, why not join the Gin Safari tour ? Cycle around on a classic British Pashley bike to all of the top gin joints in London while learning about the city’s gritty social history. 

Fans of the Harry Potter movies will love this  magical Harry Potter walking tour . Art-loving ladies will love witnessing London’s best murals on this  street art and painting tour  where you have the opportunity to make your mark on the city.

4. Night Time Dinner Cruise on the River Thames

The Thames River flows through London into the English Channel. The best time to sail on the river is at night while enjoying a meal and a glass of wine together, looking across the lit-up city. You’ll travel pass St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe Theater on the South Bank, and the incredible Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.

This  four-course dinner cruise  on the Thames is a fantastic way to spend the first night of your girls’ trip to London.

5. Day Trip to Bath, Oxford, or the Cotswolds

If you’re spending more than three days in London, definitely organize a day trip . There are endless things to do in London but you should also take advantage of exploring other beautiful parts of England!

Oxford is a one-hour direct train journey from Paddington Station and the perfect place for an easy day trip. Explore the historic colleges of the University of Oxford, check out the Covered Market, and try punting on the River Cherwell (or hire someone instead!). 

Day Tours from London We Love

• Small Group Tour to the Cotswolds – Viator
• Downton Abbey and Costwolds Tour – GetYourGuide
• Full Day Cotswolds Tour – Context Travel
• Oxford, Stratford, and Warwick from London – Viator
• From London: Full Day Stonehenge and Bath Tour – GetYourGuide

Bath is only slightly further, a 90-minute direct train journey from Paddington. One day is enough time to visit the Roman Baths and the top Jane Austen sites like The Circus Georgian Houses.

Or if you’d all prefer to escape the city for the day, take a special visit to the Cotswolds where you’ll find idyllic English villages. If you’re a large group, the total price for a private tour could be less than you think.

6. Take in the London Skyline Views

London is a beautiful, dynamic city and there’s a lot to see from up above! Here are some of the best vantage points in London:

• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Tower Bridge (not London Bridge!)
• Up at the O2 

Book tickets in advance, especially for the Sky Garden as it offers free entrance so tickets get snapped up fast.

7. Enjoy a Cooking Class in London

Because of London’s multicultural population, it’s a great place to take a cooking class of almost any cuisine.

Jamie Oliver Cookery School  offers classes in London that will teach you all how to make a range of dishes from South Indian curries to Vietnamese street food. The  Gordan Ramsey Cooking Academy  also has a range of classes, from 90-minute macaron tutorials to Middle Eastern street food.

8. Live Like Royalty and Visit Historic Sites

England’s Royal Family is famous around the world and there are a few sites that you and your girlfriends might be itching to see in real life. Here are the top spots:

• Buckingham Palace   – Royal palace of King Charles III which is open for tours in summer. Visit for the Changing of the Guards ceremony four times a week at 10:45 am
• Kew Royal Botanic Gardens  – UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best botanic gardens in the world with over 40,000 plant species
• Windsor Castle   – Royal Residence and location of many royal weddings including Prince Harry’s wedding
• Tower of London  – 11th-century castle and prison home to the Crown Jewels
• Kensington Palace   – Former residence of Queen Victoria and Princess Diana overlooking Kensington Gardens

You’ll need tickets for all of these attractions so book in advance!

9. Catch a Show on London’s West End

New York City has Broadway but London has the West End. The city’s theater district is full of musicals, plays, and cabarets which are perfect evening entertainment on a girls’ trip to London.

Some of the best, longest-running shows on the West End are Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap at St. Martin’s Theater, Les Miserables at Queen’s Theater, and The Lion King at Lyceum Theater. If you don’t manage to watch them all on this trip, there’s always next time!

10. Stroll Through the Parks and Gardens

London has a massive number of green spaces from small, square neighborhood parks to sprawling oases. 

St. James’s Park and Green Park are only a five-minute walk from Buckingham Palace. Hire boats to sail on the Serpentine in Hyde Park. Kensington Gardens is a beautiful park super close to the British prime minister’s residence at 10 Downing Street.

Regent’s Park is another great place to visit slightly further north as it’s also home to the London Zoo.

11. Book a Professional Photoshoot with Flytographer

Don’t get together with the girls very often? Book a professional photoshoot so that you have a variety of high-quality photographs to share on social media and help you remember your amazing girls’ trip to London.

Flytographer is the best go-to company for any vacation photoshoot around the world. They only list the best photographers who will choose the most picturesque spots and put you all at ease.

12. Drink Cocktails in an Extra Special Spot

No girls’ trip to London is complete without checking out the best cocktail bars in the city. Luckily, in a city like London, you have so many great choices!

Sabine Rooftop Bar serves classic cocktails and has a huge outdoor terrace with views across The Shard, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the River Thames. The Culpeper is slightly east of Central London in Spitalfields, but it has a beautiful rooftop bar where you’re completely surrounded by skyscrapers.

Looking for a more classic cocktail bar? The Connaught Bar in Mayfair is a great option. Drinking a cocktail in The American Bar at the Savoy Hotel is akin to ordering a drink at the Waldorf Astoria in New York. 

13. Join a Haunted Tour of London

London might be a city of Kings and Queens but it’s also home to dungeons, cemeteries, and criminals. If you or any of the ladies you are traveling with are a dark history buff, you can’t miss taking a haunted tour of London!

One of the best is this  Jack the Ripper Walking Tour of London  in the Spitalfields neighborhood. Team a  ghostly walking tour  through London’s parks and spookiest alleyways with a boat ride along the Thames to the Tower of London, supposedly the most haunted building in the city.

14. Enjoy Afternoon Tea or the Tea Bus

Delicious sandwiches, delicate patisserie, fresh scones, cups of hot English tea, sparkling wine… There’s nothing to hate about afternoon tea! It’s one of the best activities on any girls’ trip to London. Here are the top traditional afternoon tea spots in London:

• Fortnum & Mason
• The Grand Saloon

Oblix at The Shard is a great place for afternoon tea with a view. You can even team up an afternoon tea experience with this  sightseeing tour and high tea experience  on an iconic red double-decker bus.

15. Try an Immersive Cocktail Experience

Many of London’s cocktail bars have gone all in on one theme with special effects and authentic decor. They make for a super fun night out!

Cahoots in London is a post-war, 1940s-themes speakeasy bar that hosts singalongs around the piano. Moonshine Saloon in Chelsea is Wild West-themed. Head to Cauldron for the opportunity to mix your own cocktail potions that you can enjoy afterward.

Where To Stay on a Girls’ Trip to London

You won’t have any problems finding a London hotel for your trip as there are over 1,000 to choose from.

Celebrating a milestone or just feel like spending more on a luxury option? Gem Langham Court Hotel in Fitzrovia is a housed in well-located, beautiful Art Deco building. Even more impressive is the five-star Athenaeum Hotel overlooking Green Park with fresh, elegant decor and exceptional breakfasts. The property has adjoining rooms and residences available.

While comfortable ‘budget’ hotels are not in London’s vocabulary, there are still many comfortable and modern mid-range accommodations. The Montague on The Gardens is a beautiful boutique hotel close to St Pancras Station and The British Museum. Wilde Aparthotels is a lovely aparthotel a stone’s throw from Covent Garden. Inhabit Queen’s Garden Hotel is a slick four-star option that may not look like it’s in an ideal location (hence a cheaper room rate!) but it’s only a short walk from Paddington Station and Kensington Gardens.

Where To Eat on a Girls’ Trip to London

British food has a bad rap for being bland and boring, but London is one of the most international cities on the planet. The best of the best of every cuisine under the sun can be found there!

Check out casual food markets for lunch. Places like Borough Market have hundreds of food stalls from bao buns to tacos to fish and chips, so you can all choose whatever you’re in the mood for.

For dinner on your girls’ trip to London, make the most of the city’s world-class restaurants. Try delicious Cantonese food at Hakkasan in Mayfair, Mediterranean at NOPI in Soho, and Indian culinary delights at Gymkhana in Mayfair. Head to Kerridge’s Bar & Grill in Westminster for Michelin-starred British pub food, or Bancone in Covent Garden which is a great spot for Italian.

Book a Fun and Exciting Girls’ Trip to London

Planning a girls’ trip to London is a great way to catch up with old friends, celebrate a milestone , or spend quality time with family. London is a big city with a diverse culture so you’re sure to find activities, accommodations, and restaurants everyone will enjoy. 

You can stick to the traditional hot spots and enjoy a fancy afternoon tea and visit the Tower of London. Or, you can mix things up by booking an Indian cooking class and joining a haunted tour of London’s dark past. Or you can do everything! Hopefully, this guide offers plenty of inspiration to guarantee that you all have an amazing time.

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