Top Things to Do Along the River Thames

From award-winning theatres to historic bridges, these are the best things to do on the River Thames in London.

The Thames is one of the most recognisable features of the London cityscape. A muse for artists, playwrights, poets and architects, this winding waterway offers incredible views along its route through the capital. Over 2,000 years old, the River Thames is London’s lifeline and has occupied an important part in the lives of locals for centuries. Today, the river still inspires a multitude of events and attractions along its meandering course, from world-class cuisine at St Katherine’s Dock and Oxo Tower Wharf to innovative performances at local theatres. Join us as we explore the best things to do along the River Thames in London.

Enjoy a drink at St Katharine Docks

A stone’s throw from Tower Bridger lies St Katharine Docks, a marina filled with boats and dotted with restaurants and cafés. This is a great place to wander and take it all in before stepping into the Dickens Inn, an 18th century warehouse, for a quick drink.

Explore the Cutty Sark

Situated at Greenwich Pier, the Cutty Sark is a 19th century sailing ship and the sole surviving tea clipper; it's a particularly fascinating attraction for those interested in maritime history. Enter the ship and discover what life was like as a seafaring Victorian through a series of exhibits and walk underneath the raised ship to admire the boat’s traditional craftsmanship.

Discover performing arts along the South Bank

As well as providing space for street performers to entertain crowds, South Bank is home to numerous theatres and museums. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe to learn about illustrious playwright William Shakespeare, check out BFI to discover the best of the British film industry, or book into a show at the Southbank Centre, which presents a diverse programme of comedy, music, dance, theatre and art shows most nights of the week.

Enjoy Oxo Tower Wharf

The landmark Oxo Tower Wharf is a hub of art, design and dining. Formerly an office tower, it now hosts an innovative mix of galleries, independent fashion boutiques, specialist design studios, restaurants and cafés.

Climb Tower Bridge

See Tower Bridge from a fresh perspective by walking along the raised glass walkway between the two towers. To get there, visitors must climb one of the turrets, where they’ll pass through an exhibition and learn about the history of the bridge and how it was built.