About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I've spent a decade watching the London tourism market try to reinvent the wheel, but sometimes the old "tea and a boat" combo is the only thing that actually converts. While most operators are obsessed with squeezing every last drop of RevPAR out of their hotel rooms, they often forget that the real magic happens when you get off the pavement. Is it a bit of a cliché? Maybe. But frankly, if you’re still trying to navigate the South Bank on foot amidst the summer crowds, you're doing it wrong. This cruise is one of the few experiences that doesn't feel like a total "tourist trap" because, let's be real, even us locals can't resist a good scone when the Shard is looming over us. It's a solid lead for anyone wanting to see the city without the blisters, even if the industry insists on overcomplicating things.
About the Tour
Why settle for a cramped cafe when you can have a "ringside seat" to the greatest architectural show on earth? This round-trip journey takes the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea and puts it where it belongs: on the water. Departing from Tower Pier, you'll swap the city noise for the gentle hum of "Old Father Thames."
The Experience As you drift downstream, you aren't just eating; you're moving through history. The route is a "who’s who" of London landmarks, offering unobstructed views of:
- The Tower of London: Your historic starting point.
- Shakespeare’s Globe: A nod to the Bard.
- The Shard: Europe’s glass-clad giant.
- The London Eye & Houses of Parliament: The iconic Westminister skyline.
On the Menu The catering isn't just an afterthought here. You'll be served a classic spread that hits all the right notes for a proper afternoon indulgence:
- Savory: A fine array of traditional finger sandwiches.
- Sweet: Scones served with the mandatory clotted cream and strawberry jam, plus a selection of cakes.
- Refreshments: Unlimited tea and coffee are included to keep the conversation flowing.
The Extras If you're feeling a bit more celebratory (or just want to escape the "standard" tourist vibe), there is a fully stocked bar available throughout the cruise. You can purchase a glass of chilled champagne or choose from a variety of soft and alcoholic drinks. To make sure you actually know what you're looking at, a live sightseeing commentary provides fresh facts about the monuments passing by your window.
Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a stylish way to tick off your London bucket list, this is how you do it. Just dont forget to book early, as these seats fill up faster than a Soho pub on a Friday night.
Highlights
- Indulge in afternoon tea on board a river boat on the Thames in London
- Cruise from the Tower of London to the Houses of Parliament and back
- Tuck into sandwiches, cakes and traditional scones with cream and jam
- See historic sights like Shakespeare's Globe, Tower Bridge, and the Tate Modern
- Admire new architecture such as Renzo Piano's pyramid-like tower The Shard
Know before you go
- 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 with each table (or pair of tables) seating four people. The panoramic windows provide great views from all angles of the passing sky-line, regardless of your table location
- Please note that some tables are situated in close proximity to other diners