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London Eye River Cruise – tickets, cruise timings, how to reach, route and FAQs

What’s the next best thing to do after stepping out of the London Eye? Well, that would be hopping on a London Eye river cruise!

Sailing on the Thames brings you into contact with past and present structures, such as the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the Shard.

The Cruise and what it entails

The London Eye river cruise is a 40-minute circular sightseeing tour that passes by some of the city’s most iconic riverside markers along the Thames.

Thanks to a canopy and sun-deck seating, the river cruise is an all-weather ride, and it departs every hour, with the first cruise starting at 10.45 am. 

The last cruise is scheduled for 5.45 pm; that’s when you see another side of London, all glittery and beautiful between twilight and night.

During the cruise, you can view the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral , the Tower of London , Shakespeare’s Globe, HMS Belfast, Westminster Abbey , and the Millennium and Tower Bridges .

Upon entering the cruise, you are provided with a souvenir guide map.

An expert live tour guide gives a detailed overview of all the sights along the river in English.

You can also access an audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Japanese, Russian, and Chinese.

There is a T-loop system in English for those who are hard of hearing.

There are several other attractions near the London Eye pier like the Sealife London Aquarium , London Dungeon , Shrek Adventure, and Globe Theatre.

Recommended Reading # Facts about London Eye # Restaurants near London Eye # London Eye at Night # London Eye and Madame Tussauds # Big Ben and London Eye

London Eye river cruise tickets

There are a variety of River Cruise London tickets to opt from.

The most popular ticket is the London Eye cruise ticket, which sells at £14 per person during off-season months and £18 during peak season. 

A combined ticket for a river cruise and London Eye is available for £60 during peak season and £46 during the off-peak season. 

The London Eye cruise ticket for children between two and 15 years comes at a discounted price of £15 and £11 during peak and off-peak seasons, respectively.

The river cruise and London Eye combined ticket for children between two and 15 years is priced at £54 and £42 during peak and off-peak seasons, respectively.

Infants aged one year and below can enter for free.

Planning to visit London Eye at final moment? Then the Last-Minute London Eye Tickets is for you.

London Eye cruise timings

The first London Eye river cruise starts at 10.45 am daily. 

However, the cruise’s last ride depends on the peak (April to September) and lean (October to March) seasons. 

Here’s a table to help you understand the River Cruise London’s schedule better.

Note: It is advisable to be at the pier 15 minutes in advance. 

Know more about : How Long does the London Eye Take?

Where do these cruises depart from

The London Eye river cruises depart from the London Eye Pier, which is also known as the Waterloo Millennium Pier.

It is both the start- and end-point of the 40-minute cruise.

The pier is conveniently situated in front of the giant observation wheel, with Big Ben and the Parliament Building on one side.

It was initially built with one sole purpose: To serve as a collision protection system for the London Eye in the event of an attack.

The pier is popular for its commuter boat services, Summer leisure cruises, speedboat tour cruises, and London Eye river cruises. Get Directions .

How to get there

The River Cruise London is well connected by subway trains and bus services.

If you are looking for the nearest tube station , there are four of them— Westminster , Charing Cross , Embankment , and Waterloo tube station .

You can also catch buses 148, 168, 453, and 76 to reach the cruise from Waterloo Station.

There are several bars and restaurants near the pier. Peacock London , Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar , All Bar One Waterloo , Troia Southbank Mediterranean Restaurant , The Library at County Hall , and Locale are popular places to have a meal before embarking on a cruise.

The London River Cruise starts from the London Eye Pier and passes through several attractions before returning to the pier.

Here is a route map to help you understand the river cruise’s journey better:

Here are a few frequently asked questions about the London Eye river cruise.

When you book your ticket online , a softcopy is sent to your email. You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone and board the cruise.

Unfortunately, there are no discounted river cruise London tickets for senior citizens and students.

No, but you can view the attraction if you buy a combined river cruise and London Eye ticket .

Yes, there is a live guide providing commentary in English. There is also an audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Japanese, Russian, and Chinese.

Yes, the London Eye River Cruise is wheelchair accessible. However, a maximum of three wheelchairs are allowed per cruise. So book your tickets in advance.

Carers accompanying disabled guests are entitled to a free entry ticket. This can be reserved when purchasing a standard or combination London River Cruise entry ticket .

There is no specific dress code, but it’s recommended to dress comfortably, considering the weather conditions on the day of the cruise.

Yes, cameras are allowed on board, enabling you to capture stunning views of the Thames and London during the cruise.

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London Eye River Cruise

Set sail on the River Thames with the London Eye River Cruise.

Opening Hours

Boats leave every hour from 10:45am to 4:45pm.

Ticket Information

Tickets from £14. Combination tickets including a ride on the London Eye can be bought online.

Contact Info

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Casting off from the London Eye pier in South Bank, this 40-minute guided river boat cruise takes in all of the biggest sights that sit on the river Thames including Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, Tower Bridge and more.

This is a circular boat tour starting and ending at the London Eye with live commentary (in English) on board from a professional guide. There are also audio guides available in French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Italian, Czech, Hindi, Polish, and Portuguese. Refreshments can be bought from the on-board bar.

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The London Eye & River Cruise Combination Ticket Offers

We have 1 ticket type for The London Eye & River Cruise Combination Ticket Offers

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• Dates, Times & Prices
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Entrance to London Eye Hop-on, hop-off CIty Cruises ticket valid for one day’s unlimited travel from and between Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier and Tower Pier

London Eye  Opening Times

Sightseeing Cruise:  Daily service with cruises departing every 30 minutes from 11am until 6:30pm Timings are subject to change.  Please check on your arrival. Sightseeing cruises departs from piers at Westminster, London Eye & Tower. Please note Greenwich Pier is not currently available.

JOURNEY TIMES   From Westminster Pier:

From London Eye (Waterloo) Pier:

From Tower Pier:

From Greenwich Pier:      

All journey times shown are approximate. Actual times may vary depending upon the state of the tide and other river traffic.

The London Eye By Tube:   Waterloo is the closest tube station to the London Eye. Waterloo is about five minutes walking distance. Exit the station following signs for the South Bank.  Embankment and Charing Cross stations are close together on the north side of the River Thames. Both tube stations are a ten-fifteen minute walk to reach the London Eye. From the station, cross over Hungerford Bridge.   By Train:   The closest rail stations to the London Eye are Waterloo and Charing Cross. Waterloo is the closest rail station to the London Eye. Waterloo is about five minutes walking distance; take exit six for the South Bank and follow the signs. Charing Cross is about a fifteen minute walk to the London Eye. Cross over Hungerford Bridge.   By Bus:   Buses to the London Eye include the 211, 77 and 381. The London Eye is on most London sightseeing bus tours and on the RV1 route that connects the London Eye to the Tate Modern and Covent Garden.

City Cruises Sightseeing Cruise Westminster Pier is close to Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament (with Big Ben), Horse Guards, Whitehall and the Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms.

London Eye Pier is next to the London Eye, County Hall (with the London Aquarium) and close to the world-renowned South Bank arts complex (including the Royal Festival Hall).

Tower Pier is right next to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Greenwich Pier provides easy access to the World Heritage Centre of Greenwich, home of the famous tea clipper Cutty Sark.

Please note that due to the latest Government restrictions on groups, bookings are currently limited to maximum of six guests

We have 23 Reviews for The London Eye & River Cruise Combination Ticket Offers

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London Eye River Cruise

London eye river cruise overview.

One of the best ways to explore the capital city of England is by the London Eye river cruise. Sail along the River Thames and embark on a 40-minute journey from the London Eye Pier to Tower Bridge. Get a chance to Spot some top attractions in the city such as Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the House of Parliament among many others. The cruise will also have an expert English guide who will help you learn more about the rich culture and all of the iconic attractions as you pass through them. You can also listen to an audio guide with over 8 languages to learn more about the city.

The London Eye river cruise also includes tickets to the London Eye where you can witness the beautiful views of the city. Admire the beautiful views of the Canary Wharf, and also visit the Shard, which is the highest viewpoint in London. The London Eye river cruises have both lower and upper decks. You can choose to sit in either of them and enjoy the view. You can also witness the iconic HMS Belfast which is a magnificent ship that served in World War 2.

Available London Eye Cruise Deals

Enjoy a lovely afternoon tea cruise on the second-longest river in the United Kingdom, The River Thames

Savor the delicious mouth-watering pastries, scones with jam, and sandwiches that will make your mouth swim

Cruise through the city's most famous London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London 

Listen to the audio commentary that is accessible in a variety of languages, either live or recorded

• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travelers.
• If an infant aged 2 and above would like a seat and be served a meal, they will be charged the child rate.
• Your seat on board is assured, and it will be assigned to you prior to the voyage.
• Wheelchair not accessible.
• The cruise must be pre-booked with Evan Evans.
• Service animals are allowed.
• 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 us after booking.
• Menu changes are possible.
• Kindly give at least 72 hours notice of any dietary restrictions.
• Please note that as part of the relaxed atmosphere of this cruise experience, your table may be close to other guests.
• All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details upon arrival.

Why To Book London Eye River Cruise?

Book your London Eye River Cruise online and stand a chance to get some great discounts and special offers on your bookings. Booking your tickets online will also allow you to grab some great offers available exclusively for online customers. With the online tickets you will also be able to choose from the best combo offers along with the River Cruise.

• Go on the London Eye river cruise and experience a 40-minute journey from the London Eye Pier along the beautiful River Thames.
• Look at some of the most famous attractions such as Tower Bridge, House of Parliament, Big Ben, and St. Paul’s Cathedral among many others.
• Learn about the rich history of the city from an English-speaking guide and also from an audio guide with over 8 languages.
• Admire the iconic HMS Belfast which was a Royal ship used in World War 2 and also the stunning views of the Canary Wharf.
• Look at the spectacular view of the city from the London Eye and experience the city in 4-D.

• A 40-minute journey on a London Eye river cruise starting from the London Eye to Tower Bridge.
• A friendly English guide who will help you learn more about the rich history of the city.
• You can also use the Audio guides which are available in 8 languages, French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Mandarin.
• Entrance to the most iconic London Eye and river cruise which will help you admire the city from up above.

Famous Attractions To Spot While On the London Eye River Cruise

One of the best ways to explore the city of London in a short period of time is to go on the London Eye River Cruise as you can spot some of the most amazing tourist attractions. Look at attractions such as the Big Ben, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, HMS Belfast and many more to learn about their history from the English guide on board.

Built in the 1070s, the Tower of London is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and can be seen from the London eye river cruises. Home to the Yeomen Warders and Crown Jewels, the Tower of London attracts over three million visitors every year. It has a very fascinating history, having served as a Royal Mint, the Royal Armouries, a royal house, a treasury, and a zoo in the past. You can witness the famous Waterloo Barracks, and crown jewels such as the Kohinoor diamond in this iconic monument.

Known for its beautiful Neo-Gothic architecture, the Tower bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world and can be experienced with the London eye river cruises. Admire the stunning panoramic views of the city and look at attractions such as St. Paul's Cathedral, the Shard, Canary Wharf, and Shooters Hill from the Tower Bridge. One of the most fascinating features of the bridge is the Glass flooring where you can take a stroll and look at the metropolis of London.

Known for its architectural landmark status, St. Paul’s Cathedral has the world's highest Cathedral domes at 111 metres tall. It was rebuilt in 1710 after being burnt by the Great Fire of London in 1666 by Sir Christopher Wren and the gigantic dome is visible from the cruise. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Cathedral from your cruise and take some amazing pictures.

One of the most iconic structures you can admire from the London eye river cruises is the HMS Belfast which is a magnificent ship used in World War 2. The ship has 9 decks and the largest deck is called the Flag deck which can be seen clearly from your cruise. The ship also has a huge engine room and is currently a museum ship on the River Thames. You can take some amazing pictures of the ship from your cruise.

Also known as The Palace of Westminster, House of Parliament lies on the north bank of the River Thames and can be seen from the London Eye River Cruise. The House of Parliament is divided into two houses, the House of Commons, and the House of Lords. The visitors are also allowed to visit the houses and watch live debates and trails. Marvel at the astonishing architecture of the place as you glide through the waterfronts of the place.

Also known as the Great Bell, Big Ben is the most recognized tourist attraction in London. The Chiming clock is located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster and has a 13-ton bell that's located inside the clock tower. One of the best times to look at Big Ben is after sunset when it is illuminated with beautiful lights. You can also take some amazing pictures from the London eye river cruises and witness this beautiful structure.

Why Experience The London Eye River Cruise?

• One of the best ways to explore the city, the London Eye river cruise gives you a chance to look at the top attractions of the city which are located along the River Thames such as the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and many more.
• Embark on this 40-minute journey and explore central London from the London Eye Pier to Tower Bridge.
• The London Eye and River cruise also includes tickets to the observation capsule where you can witness the panoramic 4-D view of the city.
• Learn more about the rich history of the city and the tourist attractions as you sail through them from the local English guide on board.

Must Checkout: IFS Cloud Cable Car Tickets

Know Before You Book London Eye River Cruise

Essential Information

Boarding Point: The London eye river cruises start from the London Eye Pier which is also called the Boarding Eye Point.

Timings: 11:00 AM - 4:45 PM every day

Best time to Visit: The Best time to experience the London Eye River Cruises is in the summer from March to mid-June as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

How To Reach

By Bus: There are many buses from all over the city which can take you to the London eye. The buses number 148, 77, 453, and 159. County Hall is the nearest bus station to the London Eye RIver Cruise.

By Car: You can easily take a cab or car to reach the London Eye. It will approximately take 15 minutes to reach London Eye from the city centre.

Subways: London is interconnected with subways and you can take subways from Waterloo, Charing Cross, Westminster, and Embankment to the London Eye. The closest station to the London Eye River Cruise is Waterloo Station which is only a 5 minute walk away.

London Eye River Cruise FAQs

Do we need to book in advance for the london eye river cruise.

Yes, it is advised to book in advance for the London Eye River Cruise as this is one of the most popular activities and the tickets tend to get sold out. Booking the tickets in advance will also ensure a seamless experience and hassle-free vacation. You can book the tickets in advance online and also avail some great discounts and special offers to choose from.

Will I get discounts on booking the London Eye River Cruise?

Yes, one of the best benefits of booking the London Eye River Cruise online is the discounts and deals. There are multiple discounts available while booking the tickets online and you may choose from some of the best combo offers and special discounts while you book them online.

What is the best time to experience the London Eye River Cruise?

The best time to experience the London Eye River Cruise is from March to mid-June as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. You can also visit the river cruise between September and November when the city experiences clear skies and also the downpour is less likely during this period allowing the visitors a very pleasant time on the cruise.

How long will the London Eye River Cruise last?

The London Eye river cruise is a 40-minute journey and you can get a chance to witness some top attractions such as Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and the House of Parliament. The cruise takes you through the centre of London along the magnificent river Thames. On the 40 minute journey you will also be able to marvel at the Globe, Tate Modern and many more beautiful attractions.

Must Checkout: Stonehenge Facts

Are refreshments offered during the London Eye River Cruise?

Yes, refreshments are offered during the London Eye River Cruise. You can also choose to sit on the upper deck of the cruise and enjoy a lovely breeze while enjoying your refreshments. You can savour some great British snacks, tea/coffee onboard the London Eye River Cruise.

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London Eye and Thames cruise: the perfect combination for your trip to London

Would you like to save some money during your trip to London? Buying combined tickets to some attractions can be useful, read on!

Isabel Catalán

View of the London Eye | ©AfroRomanzo

Are you planning to visit several of London's most famous tourist attractions? Instead of buying them separately because the cost can be higher, a good idea is to buy combined tickets to some of them, as it can help you to save a little during your vacation.

Such is the case of combined tickets for a cruise on the Thames and to ride the London Eye , highlights to see and do in London.

Want to know how you can buy combined tickets and what you can save with them? I tell you that and more in the next post!

Offer: London Eye Tickets, Big Bus Tour and Thames River Cruise

Explore london from different points of view with this special package.

On your visit to the British capital do not miss the opportunity to see its monuments and most emblematic points in a very comfortable way with this offer that includes bus ticket, cruise and a ride on the highest Ferris wheel in Europe.

Explore the British capital with this pack that includes tickets for London Eye, pass for the Big Bus and cruise on the Thames , an ideal way to discover its monuments and points of interest.

In this proposal in which, thanks to the headphones and audio guide with recorded commentary you will know all the details and intricacies of the history of the city, you can choose between two routes depending on the time you have and how much you want to deepen, with a duration of about 1 hour and 20 minutes or 2 hours and 30 minutes respectively. In addition, there are bus tickets for 1, 2 or 3 days.

Why I like this option. .. it is a very complete option and has very good value for money.

Recommended if. .. you want to know London comfortably.

London Top Sights Tour Including London Eye Tickets

Get to know london in depth with this experience in which you will leave nothing behind..

A 10-hour experience with an expert guide in which you will enjoy a tour of the British capital, a cruise on the Thames and, of course, you will also climb the London Eye.

Thanks to this tour of London with tickets included for the London Eye , you can make a tour of the main places in the city without leaving anything behind. A tour of approximately 10 hours that includes bus transfers, tickets to St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London, and the ascent to the London Eye.

In addition, you will have at your disposal a professional guide who will explain in detail the history of the different points, monuments and landmarks of the city. A very complete experience to discover in depth the British capital, enjoy panoramic views from the highest Ferris wheel in Europe and sail the waters of the Thames.

Why I like this option ... it is the most complete option to know London.

Recommended if ... you do not want to leave anything behind and want to know London in depth, as you will have at your disposal a guide to ask all the questions you have.

Where to buy combined tickets for the London Eye and a cruise on the Thames?

If during your stay in London you want to include in your agenda of activities to climb the London Eye and take a cruise on the Thames, the best option for both convenience and speed to fulfill your plans is to buy online in advance a combined ticket to the two attractions.

Both are two of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, which translates into some very long and boring queues at the ticket office for those who choose to purchase them 'in situ' once they land in London. So, in my experience, I do not recommend waiting until you arrive in the British capital to buy tickets . If you buy them online and from home, this is precious time from your trip that you could invest in other more entertaining plans such as a bike tour through London's parks , a Harry Potter tour or a gastronomic tour .

Book a London tour with tickets to the London Eye

How to buy combined tickets online? How to use them?

Very easy! For example, you can use the London Eye website to buy a combined ticket for the Ferris wheel and the cruise. When you access the site, all you have to do is select the combined ticket you want, then the number of tickets and finally the date and time for the Thames cruise.

Later, when you are ready, you have to book the date and time for the other activity (the London Eye climb) separately.

Book a tour of London with tickets to the London Eye

How much can I save with a combined ticket for the London Eye and Thames cruise?

From £41 you can get a combined adult ticket to take a Thames cruise and go on the London Eye, so when you buy them together you can save around 15% .

The ticket to do a Thames cruise is included in the London Pass and London Explore Pass , the ticket to go on the London Eye is not, unfortunately.

If you are sure you want to do both activities and do not plan to buy a tourist card, the best way to save a little is to get a combined ticket, as buying them separately is more expensive.

Book a tour of London with tickets for the London Eye

When can I do a combined visit to these two attractions?

One of the advantages of buying a combined ticket to do a Thames River Cruise and to go on the London Eye is that you can plan each activity as you want , that is, you don't have to do them on the same day in a hurry, but you can choose separately the day and time of each attraction.

For example, if you buy a combined ticket on the website of the London Eye the first thing you have to do is select the date and time you would like to do the Thames cruise and when you have made the reservation, you will receive a confirmation email in your email that includes a link to book in advance the visit to the other attraction (the London Eye).

When you purchase the combined ticket you should know that you cannot change the date and time of the first activity (the Thames cruise), but you have a maximum of 5 times to edit the details of your visit to the other attraction before the original date selected.

What will I see during the Thames cruise or from the London Eye?

A cruise on the Thames or going on the London Eye are two of the most interesting things you can do in London.

Cruise on the Thames

• During the crossing you will enjoy a moment of peace and a very relaxing walk feeling the breeze and the sun on your face.
• You will contemplate some of the most beautiful monuments of London located near the river bank, such as Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster, London Bridge, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the London Eye, the Tower of London , Tower Bridge or The Shard viewpoint , among others.
• You will have the opportunity to enjoy the London skyline from another perspective .
• You will get some impressive pictures as a souvenir.
• If at the end of the cruise you want more because you have had a great time, you can always come back for a dinner cruise on the Thames , a totally different experience and at the same time complementary to the previous one, as you can observe the Thames at night and attend an elegant evening with dinner and live music .

Climbing the London Eye

• It is the highest Ferris wheel in Europe with its more than 130 meters high.
• It is famous for its spectacular panoramic views , where on a clear day you can see up to 40 kilometers away.
• Its structure is in continuous movement, allowing you to contemplate the London skyline with a very original and different perspective to what we are used to.
• At the highest point of the London Eye you will have the opportunity to see the city from a bird's eye view and immortalize at your feet beautiful monuments such as the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, the great dome of St. Paul's Cathedral and the City of London, Westminster Bridge or the Fenchurch building, among others.
• If you have a flexible schedule to see the London Eye , go up to the Ferris wheel at sunset , because it is one of the most beautiful views from the London Eye . The phenomenon varies depending on the month, so if you decide to go up at that time, I advise you to make sure you know when the sunset occurs in London .

How to get from one attraction to another?

The London Eye is located on the south bank of the River Thames , opposite the Palace of Westminster. The ticket offices are inside County Hall, a building next to the Ferris wheel. And the London Eye (Waterloo) pier is next to the wheel. You can walk from one side to the other perfectly.

To get to the London Eye you can take the Jubilee line and get off at Waterloo station , which is the closest to the attraction.

Where to eat near the London Eye and the Thames cruise?

If you feel like eating around the London Eye and its pier, do not miss these proposals:

• St Stephen's Tavern : A British pub where you can taste the best traditional local cuisine. As a curiosity, prime ministers like Churchill or Macmillan used to eat here.
• La Cucina Di Mamma : A good Italian place to eat near the London Eye. The Piccante pizza and the Four Cheese pizza are from another planet.
• Pret a Manger : Ideal for breakfast if you are going to visit the Ferris wheel early. You can take it there or order it to go. The breakfast rolls and the classic British porridge are two of their specialties.

Take a look at the post places to eat near the London Eye if you would like to stay and eat nearby.

Book a food tour in London

Other tips for a combined visit to the London Eye and ride a Thames river cruise

Tips for visiting the london eye.

• The best time to ride the London Eye is early as soon as the attraction opens, but if you have other plans in the morning, another good time is around 3 pm, when there are few people.
• Weekends and holidays are when the London Eye is most crowded. Better go on a weekday to avoid the queues.
• The views from the cabins of the London Eye are stunning, but if you want to take the best photo of the Ferris wheel outdoors go to the Golden Jubilee Bridge .
• Climb the London Eye at night to see the city illuminated in all its splendor - it's a magical feeling!

Tips to take a Thames river cruise

• Be on time . The boat departs with British punctuality (never better said!) and waits for no one. Arrive in plenty of time and take the opportunity to explore the area before boarding.
• Dress warmly , especially if you are cruising during the winter in London . It can get very cold in London when temperatures are low and if you are going to be on deck, it is best to dress warmly.
• Bring some motion sickness remed y to take before boarding in case the swaying of the water makes your body churn. This way, you will enjoy the experience much more.
• Do not lean over the railing of the boat too much and keep a safe distance as a precaution.
• Remember to carry your camera battery well charged to take pictures and videos during the crossing.

The Best Travel Guide to London

• The Lion King Tickets
• The Phantom Of The Opera Tickets
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• 30 Best Things To Do in London
• 7 Best Thames River Cruises in London
• 9 Best Day Trips from London
• Harry Potter Tours and Experiences in London
• Tower of London Tickets and Tours: how to buy, prices and schedules
• Stonehenge Day Trips from London
• London Eye Tickets: how to buy, prices and schedules
• London Westminster Abbey Tickets: how to buy and prices

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Combo (Save 5%): Westminster Abbey with Audio Guide + River Thames Sightseeing Cruise + Optional London Eye Tickets

• Instant confirmation

Experience the best of London with this money-saving combo. Marvel at Westminster Abbey, enjoy a scenic Thames cruise, and upgrade to get a bird's-eye view from the London Eye.

Select your ticket type

• 1-hour oneway Westminster to Greenwich River Thames sightseeing cruise

WiFi audio guide in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Mandarin

Westminster Abbey entry tickets

Audio guide in Russian, Portuguese, Polish, Dutch, Japanese, Italian, Hungarian, Arabic, French, German, Spanish, and English

• 2-hour roundtrip Westminster to Greenwich River Thames sightseeing cruise
• 30-min spin of the London Eye
• London Eye guide

Step back in time as you visit the magnificent Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest churches in the UK.

Immerse yourself in the archaeological beauty of the church with an audio guide, and explore the Royal Tombs where 30 monarchs are buried.

Take a scenic cruise from Westminster to Greenwich on the Thames, with engaging commentary from a multilingual audio guide.

Want a bird's eye view of London? Upgrade to include a 30-minute ride on the London Eye.

Fun fact: The Westminster Abbey boasts the only surviving Anglo-Saxon door in England, dating back to 1050.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Sightseeing Cruise

1-hour Westminster to Greenwich River Thames sightseeing cruise

30-min ride on London Eye (optional)

London Eye guide (optional)

Cancellation policy

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Ratings & Reviews

Your experience

Make the most of exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Westminster Abbey. This notable structure, standing since 1245, has been the venue for 39 coronations including Queen Elizabeth II, and has seen royal weddings such as Prince William and Kate Middleton's. Listen to the Abbey's rich history from your audio guide, and marvel at the grandeur of attractions such as the Coronation Chair and the famed Poets' Corner, resting place of legendary figures like Isaac Newton and Charles Dickens.

Go on a scenic journey along the River Thames with the Westminster to Greenwich sightseeing cruise. Your unique vantage point provides panoramic views of some of London's most stunning landmarks, like the London Eye, the National Theatre, and the historic Tower of London. Relax and listen to engaging commentary from a multilingual WiFi audio guide as you cruise past the city's sights. Opt for a round-trip ticket to spend more time enjoying this picturesque cruise.

Take to the skies with an optional trip on the London Eye, Europe's tallest cantilevered observation wheel. For 30 mins, you'll have a bird's-eye view of the city, spotting landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. You can see up to 40 km across the city on a clear day. Download the free guide to help you identify the landmarks you see from the comfort of your air-conditioned capsule.

Operating hours

Know before you go, what to bring.

• Items that can be taken aboard include briefcases, laptops, baby bags, foldable buggies, and drinking water.

What's not allowed

• Photography, large suitcases, and bulky items are not allowed inside the Abbey.
• Large bags, sharp objects, and items that can cause security hazards are strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

Entry is permitted free of charge for wheelchair users but some areas of the Abbey are inaccessible to wheelchair users.

Pets or animals are not allowed except for guide, assistance, and/or hearing dogs.

• This experience is wheelchair-accessible.

Additional information

Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.

While there is no strictly enforced dress code, please note that the Abbey is a place of worship, and it is better to be dressed modestly.

Note that children under 2 can go for free but require a ticket to enter.

Children under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by adults.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please display the same at each ticket redemption point/ boarding point along with a valid photo ID.

Ticket redemption points and boarding point

Show your ticket at Westminster Abbey

Address - 20 Deans Yd, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA, UK

Get directions to the Redemption point

Boarding Point for Westminster to Greenwich Sightseeing Cruise

Board your cruise at Westminster Pier, Boarding point B

Address - Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London SW1A 2JH, United Kingdom

Get directions to the Boarding point

Redeem your tickets at lastminute.com London Eye

Address - Riverside Building, County Hall, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

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Time in Korolyov , Moscow Oblast, Russia now

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Time zone info for Korolyov

• The time in Korolyov is 8 hours ahead of the time in New York when New York is on standard time, and 7 hours ahead of the time in New York when New York is on daylight saving time.
• Korolyov does not change between summer time and winter time.
• The IANA time zone identifier for Korolyov is Europe/Moscow.

Time difference from Korolyov

Sunrise, sunset, day length and solar time for korolyov.

• Sunrise: 05:17AM
• Sunset: 07:39PM
• Day length: 14h 22m
• Solar noon: 12:28PM
• The current local time in Korolyov is 28 minutes ahead of apparent solar time.

Korolyov on the map

• Location: Moscow Oblast, Russia
• Latitude: 55.91. Longitude: 37.83
• Population: 140,000

The 50 largest cities in Russia

Sergei Pavlovich Korolev – the Father of Practical Astronautics

Sergei Korolev (1907 – 1966), Soviet Union 1969 CPA 3731 stamp

On January 12, 1907, lead Soviet rocket engineer and spacecraft designer during the Space Race Sergei Korolev was born. Korolev is regarded by many as the “father of practical astronautics “. He was involved in the development of the R-7 Rocket , Sputnik 1 ,[ 1 ] launching Laika , Belka and Strelka  and the first human being, Yuri Gagarin ,[ 2 ] into space.

“Today we are witnesses to the fulfillment of the dream that occupied some outstanding people, among them Tsiolkovsky. He had prophesied that mankind will not stay on Earth forever. Sputnik is the first confirmation of his predictions. The opening up of space has begun.” – Sergei Korolev, on the night of October 5, 1957, after the successful launch of Sputnik 1.[8]

Sergei Korolev – Youth and Education

Korolev was born in Zhytomyr , the capital of Volhynian Governorate of the Russian Empire. His parents, Russian teachers Maria Nikolaevna Balanina (née Moskalenko),  from a wealthy merchant family with Greek and Cossack roots, and Pavel Yakovlevich Korolev, who was  of Belarusian origin, separated just three years after his birth. Korolev grew up with his grandparents in Neshin . When he was ten years old, the family moved to Odessa . There he completed an apprenticeship as a bricklayer and roofer. Korolev showed an early interest in aviation and, in addition to his job, worked at the local glider club, constructing his first glider K-5 at the age of 17. In 1925, Korolev began studying at the Kiev Polytechnic Institute . When the Kiev faculty was closed, he transferred to Moscow Technical University (MWTU) in 1926 and graduated. Before that, he completed an internship at the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (ZAGI), where he came into contact with the design of powered aircraft. In 1929, together with S. N. Lyushin, Korolev developed and built the Koktebel glider. In the same year, under the guidance of Andrei Tupolev, Korolev created his first powered aircraft SK-4 as his diploma thesis.

First Experiments with Rockets

In the 1930s, Korolev began building rockets as part of MosGIRD, a group founded in 1931 to research recoil propulsion systems. There he received essential impulses for his later work from Friedrich Zander . Together with Zander, whom he considered a mentor, he was involved in the design and construction of the first Soviet hybrid rockets GIRD-09 and GIRD-X , among others. In 1933, he moved to the Rocket Research Institute (RNII) and became head of the Rocket Missile Department in 1934. In the same year, his scientific treatise The Rocket Flight into the Stratosphere was published.

The Great Terror

While working on the RP-318-I rocket-powered glider, Korolyev was arrested by the NKVD’s secret political police during the Great Terror on June 27, 1938. After two days of torture and threats against his family, he signed a confession in which he was forced to identify himself as a member of a counterrevolutionary Trotskyist conspiracy and a participant in acts of sabotage to obstruct development work. He had been denounced under duress by Valentin Glushko ,[ 3 ] who had been arrested three months earlier and who himself spent the period until 1944 in prison. Although innocent, Korolev was sentenced without formal trial on to ten years of hard labor in the gulag and five years of loss of civil rights. After spending time in several prisons and prolonged transportation, he arrived at the notorious Maldyak labor camp in 1939, where he nearly starved to death and became so ill with scurvy that his lower jaw was severely damaged and he lost many teeth.

In the First Circle of Hell

Through interventions of his mother with the support of the well-known pilots Mikhail Gromov and Valentina Grisodubova, the USSR Supreme Court overturned the previous sentence and Korolev was recalled from Maldyak only in November 1939. After renewed interventions by his mother and Gromov with NKVD People’s Commissar Lavrenti Beria , he was sent to the special design office of aircraft designer Andrei Tupolev , who had already supervised Korolyov’s thesis and was also imprisoned. The ZKB-29 special camp for scientists and engineers was under the control of the NKVD and was described from personal experience by Alexander Solzhenitsyn in the novel The First Circle of Hell . The ZKB-29 developed the Tupolev Tu-2 dive bomber in Omsk in September 1942.

Petlyakov Pe-2, co-developed by Sergei Korolev

Korolev applied for a job at an aircraft engine plant in Kazan , where Glushko headed the OKB-16 special design bureau for rocket engines under Sharashka conditions. Korolev participated in the development of the Petlyakov Pe-2 multirole aircraft to improve takeoff performance and climb performance with a switchable rocket engine. In 1944, Korolyov and Glushko were paroled from prison early and continued their work on rocket developments as employed engineers of OKB-16. However, Korolev was not officially rehabilitated until April 18, 1957. Korolev’s six-year imprisonment in the Gulag was erased from Communist accounts of the history of technology.

Becoming Chief Designer

After World War II, Korolev rose to become the chief designer of the initially military-only Soviet missile program within the NII (Scientific Research Institute). Korolev’s identity was kept secret during his lifetime, and in public he was referred to only anonymously as the “chief designer.” Korolev’s goal was to develop a civilian rocket program. In 1945, now holding the rank of colonel in the Red Army, he was ordered to Soviet headquarters in Berlin with other engineers and technicians. He was given the task of studying the German rocket program and locating associates of rocket engineer Wernher von Braun who remained in Germany.

The first A4 rocket (from German stocks) is transported to the launch site on a truck trailer. It was launched on 18 October 1947 from the Kapustin Yar test site, Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation, CC-BY-4.0

The Soviets placed a priority on reproducing lost documentation on the A4 rocket, and studying the various parts and captured manufacturing facilities. That work continued in East Germany until late 1946, when 2,000+ German scientists and engineers were sent to the USSR through Operation Osoaviakhim . Most of the German experts, Helmut Gröttrup being an exception, were engineers and technicians involved in wartime mass-production of A4, and they had not worked directly with Wernher von Braun. Korolev returned to the Soviet Union in 1946 with plans of German designs and German rocket designers. Among others, Wernher von Braun’s assistant Helmut Gröttrup and aerodynamicist Werner Albring worked on rocket technology development under Korolev’s direction in Kaliningrad (in Moscow oblast) and on Gorodomlya Island (now Solnetchny settlement) in Lake Seliger during this period. The first design resulting from this cooperation was the R-1 rocket of 1948, a copy of the German A4 based on materials available in the Soviet Union. Unlike the U.S., which brought German scientists to the U.S. with its Operation Overcast and ensured their naturalization and retention in the U.S. as early as 1946 with Operation Paperclip, the Soviet Union merely siphoned off their knowledge and used it in the crucial steps for spaceflight.

The Soviet Space Programme

Among Korolyov’s greatest achievements were the construction of the R-7 – the world’s first intercontinental ballistic missile – and the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957,[ 1 ] but most importantly, the first space flight by a human, Yuri Gagarin , in 1961.[ 2 ] The R-7  was a two-stage rocket with a maximum payload of 5.4 tons, sufficient to carry the Soviets’ bulky  nuclear bomb  an impressive distance of 7,000 kilometres. However, despite the Soviet R-7 initial success, it experienced later failures as it was not intended to be a practical weapon. Sputnik 1 was designed and constructed in less than a month with Korolev personally managing the assembly at a hectic pace. The satellite was a simple polished metal sphere no bigger than a beach ball, containing batteries that powered a transmitter using 4 external communication antennas. Sputnik 1 was successfully completed and launched into space on 4 October 1957 using a rocket that had successfully launched only once before. After gaining approval from the government, a modified version of Korolev’s R-7 was used to launch Yuri Gagarin into orbit on 12 April 1961, which was before the United States was able to put Alan Shepard into space.

Variants of the R-7 Rocket, (NASA)

Korolev’s group was also working on ambitious programs for missions to Mars and Venus , putting a man in orbit, launching communication, spy and weather satellites, and making a soft-landing on the Moon.

Health Problems and Early Death

In December 1960, Korolev suffered a heart attack, which was followed by others. His cardiac arrhythmias were joined by internal bleeding and intestinal problems. Korolyev was admitted to a Moscow hospital. Doctors were going to remove painful hemorrhoids in a routine operation in January 1966, but in the meantime they discovered a large tumor in his colon and put him under general anesthesia. Tracheal intubation, necessary due to circulatory weakness, failed due to scurvy-related jaw abnormality as a late consequence of Gulag imprisonment; this caused his death on January 14, 1966. The Soviet government honored him by burying his urn in the Kremlin wall. In 1996, the city of Kaliningrad in Moscow Oblast, where he headed the experimental design bureau OKB-1 as chief designer from 1950, was renamed after him.

Losing the Race to the Moon

With Korolev’s death, the Soviet space and lunar programs suffered a bitter loss. Although work on the N1 lunar rocket was continued by his collaborator Vasily Mishin , it was discontinued in 1974 after several launch failures.[ 4 ] The identity of the chief designer remained a state secret in the Soviet Union during his lifetime. While in the U.S. his adversary Wernher von Braun made a high-profile appearance in the press and on television, Korolev was not known even in his own country. When, after the successful launch of Sputnik 1, the Nobel Prize Committee asked Nikita Khrushchev for the name of the chief designer, he replied that it had been the work of the entire Soviet people and that they had thus deserved the award. Only on the occasion of the state funeral in Moscow was this secret revealed.

References and Further Reading:

• [1]  The Sputnik Shock and the Start of the Space Race , SciHi Blog
• [2]  Yuri Gagarin – the first Man in Space , SciHi Blog
• [3]  Valentin Glushko and the Space Race , SciHi Blog
• [4]  The Russian Dream to Land a Man on the Moon , SciHi Blog
• [5]  “Sergei Korolev: Father of the Soviet Union’s success in space” .  www.esa.int .
• [6]  West, John B. (1 October 2001).  “Historical aspects of the early Soviet/ Russian crewed space program” .  Journal of Applied Physiology .  91  (4): 1501–1511.
• [7]    “Sputnik Biographies–Sergei P. Korolev (1906-1966)” .   history.nasa.gov .
• [8]  Joachim Kutzner, Kurt Kobler:  Der Sputnikschock.  4. April 2004
• [9]  The 2021 John J. Rhodes Lecture: Expanded Space Exploration , A Discussion with NASA Astronaut, Dr. Shannon Walker & Ambassador Barbara Barrett, Barrett Honors College @ youtube
• [10] Sergei Korolev at Wikidata
• [11] Timeline for Sergei Korolev , via Wikidata

Harald Sack

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