A dinner Thames River cruise is one of the best ways to expereince London by night.
Picture yourself on this famous river, travelling through London as you watch famous landmarks like the London Eye and Tower Bridge pass by.
A Thames River cruise
A dinner Thames River cruise is a combination of sightseeing and fine dining. We recommend a river cruise for couples, families, or friends looking for something unique to do in London.
Most cruises depart from Westminster Pier, Embankment Pier, or Tower Pier, taking you through the heart of the city and displaying London’s most iconic riverside attractions.
Popular cruise operators include:
- City Cruises London Dinner Cruise: known for lively entertainment and great value.
- Bateaux London (Glass Room & Harmony): a luxury experience featuring a modern glass-fronted boat.
- Thames Luxury Charters: ideal for private or corporate events.
- London Eye River Cruise: shorter trips are perfect for pre-dinner sightseeing.
Most cruises last between 2.5 to 3 hours, usually starting around 7 PM and finishing near 10 PM.
Prices range from £70 to £120 per person, depending on the menu, entertainment, and extras such as window seats or champagne upgrades.
Keep in mind that certain river cruises are better than others for children and families. Please be sure to indicate that you are arriving with young children to better accommodate your needs for a smoother ride.
Pros:
- Panoramic city views and iconic photo opportunities.
- Gourmet dining with multiple courses.
- Relaxed atmosphere with live music or jazz.
Cons:
- Limited seating. You need to book early.
- The weather can occasionally restrict outdoor deck access.
What to expect from the Thames River tour and menu
At the start of your dinner Thames River cruise, it’s typical to be welcomed aboard with a glass of Prosecco before being shown to your table, where the city’s lights glimmer through panoramic windows.
The dinner menu on a Thames River cruise is designed to impress! Most feature a refined selection of dishes that cater to a range of tastes.
To begin, you can enjoy elegant starters such as smoked salmon mousse, roasted beetroot salad, or a delicate chicken terrine. For the main course, options often include pan-seared sea bass, slow-cooked lamb, or wild mushroom risotto. To finish, indulgent desserts like sticky toffee pudding, lemon tart, or rich chocolate fondant are offered.
In addition, most operators are attentive to dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options with advance notice.
To elevate the experience further, some cruises also feature curated wine pairings, a welcome cocktail on arrival, or even an optional cheese course for a small supplement.
Main landmarks you’ll see from the Thames River cruise
One of the best parts of a dinner Thames River cruise is seeing London from a new perspective. The city’s landmarks take on a magical glow after sunset, with unbeatable photo opportunities.
Iconic sights include:
- Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
- London Eye and South Bank
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- The Shard
- The Tower of London and Tower Bridge: often the most photographed monuments of the cruise.
- Canary Wharf
Fun fact: The River Thames stretches 215 miles across southern England and flows through nine counties, making it the longest river entirely in England.
Tips for booking and choosing schedules
Because dinner Thames River cruises are one of the most popular evening activities in London, we strongly recommend booking ahead…especially for weekends and holidays.
Best times to go
During the summer months, from May to September, longer daylight hours provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a beautiful sunset over the river as you dine. The warm evenings and glowing skyline make this season particularly enchanting for a dinner cruise along the Thames River.
In contrast, winter, between November and January, offers a completely different yet equally captivating experience. The city comes alive with festive decorations and sparkling Christmas lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Cruise checklist:
- Confirm departure pier and return time.
- Check whether drinks are included.
- Select dietary preferences in advance.
- Review cancellation or rebooking policies.
- Dress code: smart casual (avoid trainers or shorts).
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Tip: For birthdays or anniversaries, some operators offer custom cakes, champagne upgrades, or reserved private tables, available on request.
Complementary experiences in London
Before or after your dinner Thames River cruise, you can easily add nearby experiences to complete your evening:
🎡 Ride the London Eye: Enjoy a 30-minute rotation before your cruise for city views from above.
🎭 West End Show: Watch a musical like Les Misérables or Hamilton before boarding.
🌇 Sky Garden: Free entry (with reservation) for a sunset cocktail overlooking the city.
🖼️ Tate Modern or National Gallery: Perfect daytime visits before your evening cruise.
🚶 South Bank Walk: A scenic stroll past street performers and riverside cafés.
🚁Enjoy a helicopter ride over London: This is a unique experience, giving you a totally different perspective from up above.
Your perfect London getaway
When planning your trip to London, booking your dinner Thames River cruise and other attractions is a must. But don’t forget about exceptional accommodation either.
Make your London escape truly memorable by staying in Mayfair with Urban Retreat Apartments. Located in one of the city’s most elegant and central neighbourhoods, our serviced apartments place you just moments from the River Thames, luxury shopping on Bond Street, and iconic landmarks like Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace.
After your dinner Thames River cruise, return to the comfort of a stylish apartment designed for relaxation and convenience.
Come and expereince dinner on the River Thames
A dinner Thames River cruise is a truly immersive London experience.
From a romantic candlelit dinner to unforgettable city views, this cruise captures everything that makes London so enchanting after dark.
Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or rediscovering your city from the water, this is an evening you’ll never forget.
Make the most of your night with Urban Retreat Apartments. Explore our London apartments and plan your unforgettable Thames River experience today.
