From riverside strolls to thrills on the water, Kathryn Conway reveals why the River Thames is made for summer fun.
There are few better sunny July day than beside the Thames. Once one of the world’s busiest waterways, London’s great tidal artery has been a swimming spot for a polar bear (kept at the Tower of London in 1252) and the scene of Frost Fairs between the 17th and 19th centuries (when the river froze). Today, it’s one of the capital’s most exciting routes for summer adventure, whether you’re cruising along the water or exploring its vibrant banks.
Anchors Away, Explore Today
Take the Tower of London River Tour. The ideal activity to combine with a visit to the home of the Crown Jewels, you’ll traverse the waters that once carried condemned prisoners to their unfortunate end at the Tower of London – all aboard the UK’s first electric tour boat. Glide past the city’s greatest hits – the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge – all while fascinating tales unfold through live commentary created and curated by BBC Ghosts co-creator Martha Howe-Douglas and Historic Royal Palaces chief historian Tracy Borman. It’s a circular cruise you won’t want to end.
Back on shore, if you have already ticked off a visit to the Tower of London, this is the perfect opportunity to make a beeline for Tower Bridge.
Take in the views from the iconic high-level walkways – peering down through the glass floor to the traffic whizzing past beneath you – or head to the Victorian engine rooms and see the bridge’s mechanical ingenuity brought to life. It’s also worth checking the bridge lift schedule to catch the famous bascules lifting to let ships pass through or timing your visit with sunset. These are two photo-worthy moments you’ll be glad you witnessed.
Need a breather? It’s time to swap sightseeing for seaside vibes at Le Pont de la Tour’s annual summer takeover, La Plage du Pont. There is soft sand to sink your feet into, deckchairs to lounge in with a St-Germain Hugo Spritz in hand and an incredible view of Tower Bridge to enjoy. If it wasn’t for the view, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were a million miles from the city.
Making Waves
If you’re ready to up the ante and tap into your inner 007, Thames Rockets has your name written all over it.
Departing from London Eye Pier, the Ultimate London Adventure is a 50-minute experience that begins as a sightseeing cruise past icons such as Big Ben, The Shard and Tower Bridge, before transforming, once past the bridge, into a journey of pure exhilaration. The engines roar as the speedboat reaches 35 miles per hour on a thrilling high-speed run through the Docklands in east London.
It will leave you grinning from ear to ear, especially as live commentary is provided by a professional actor/comedian. Just remember to dress appropriately (ponchos are available onboard!).
Once back on dry land, a ride on the London Eye is the perfect way to appreciate just how vast – and breathtakingly beautiful – the capital is. On a clear July evening, the views stretch across the entire city, a panorama made all the more special at Golden Hour. So, book the last capsule before sunset, and enjoy a memory-making 30-minute rotation aboard the UK’s largest observation wheel.
That Shore Looks Fun
If summer had a home in the city, it would probably be the South Bank.
On the Riverside Terrace of the Royal Festival Hall, Jeppe Hein’s interactive fountain – Appearing Rooms – shoots playful jets of water skyward to create ‘rooms’ that materialise and then vanish, inviting visitors to dart in and out of the ever-changing space. It’s irresistible (to 31 Aug).
Equally immersive on an altogether more visceral level is the landmark exhibition of new and seminal works by sculptor Anish Kapoor at the Hayward Gallery (to 18 Oct). From his reflective stainless-steel sculptures that warp and distort reflections to his mysterious Vantablack objects that appear as bottomless voids, Kapoor is a master of scale and perception, and this showcase is a highlight of the summer.
When it’s time to refuel, Between the Bridges on The Queen’s Walk delivers festival energy without the muddy fields. This riverside hotspot offers street food and drinks in an open-air garden alongside themed club nights, DJ sets, A Drag Brunch Show in honour of Pride in London (4 Jul) and the ever-popular SoLo Craft Fair Summer Market (5 Jul) to create one of London’s most vibrant summer hangouts.
Or, if you want to continue the cultural immersion, why not wander along to Tate Modern on Bankside? This July it’s marking the 60th anniversary of the choreographer Yvonne Rainer’s influential dance, Trio A, with free performances in the Turbine Hall (10–11 Jul). And don’t be worried by the fact the dancers refuse to look at you – it’s all part of the show!
Ahoy, There!
Finally, to complete your leisurely stroll, continue downstream past the Golden Hinde and under London Bridge to HMS Belfast, which played a vital role in D-Day in World War II and the Korean War.
A playful trail lets children discover the origin of the ship’s crest by seeking out hidden seahorses across the vessel (to 16 Jul) before creating their own crest in the family activity room (to 12 Jul). A Coding Cats trail with activities takes over on 17 July. Be sure to leave time to explore the quarterdeck, bridge and flag deck, which offer awesome views of the City and Tower Bridge. There’s also a café and bar so you can make a day of it (please check for timings before you visit).
Dining with a view is also the highlight of a trip with City Cruises. Whether you want a two-course lunch, a classic afternoon tea with commentary that brings the riverside’s extraordinary history to life, or a three-course dinner with live entertainment as the sun sets, you have permission to sit back and relax.
You can also take advantage of its 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off River Pass to make travelling as fun as the destination you’re heading to.
And if you’re feeling flush, why not experience the River Thames in true VIP style? Thames Limo offers exclusive bespoke river journeys aboard its elegant fleet, including the first Venetian-style taxi boat licensed by the Port of London. With mahogany interiors, a discreet crew and tailor-made sightseeing itineraries, it’s a true slice of Venetian glamour in the heart of the capital. Then add into the mix its eye-catching Union Jack-adorned hull, and you have one of the most photogenic ways to explore London from the water.
Buoy, oh buoy! There’s nothing like the River Thames.
