thames river cruise london to oxford

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River Thames Cruises From London to Oxford

Cruises on the River Thames travel between London and Oxford for overnight cruises. You won’t find large river boats on Thames. Instead you’ll find cruises on smaller barge vessels, which typically accommodate up to an average of twelve passengers. Most itineraries are seven days long and stay within the Thames Valley region of the river.

More commonly, though, you’ll find day and evening cruises   on the Thames . Several companies offer scenic cruises through London.

An Interesting Fact: Did you know there is a river with a similar name located in the United States? The Thames River is formed from the confluence of the Yantic and Shetucket rivers in Norwich, Connecticut. It’s a very short river – only about 15 miles long.

River Thames in London

  By Diliff (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons

River Thames Facts

The River Thames is 215 miles long and has over 80 islands. It is the longest river located entirely in England and the second longest river in the United Kingdom.

There are three parts to the river – the Thames Head, Thames Valley and the Thames Estuary. The river begins in Gloucestershire, England where it is referred to as the Thames Head. It flows basically in an easterly direction throughout most of its course.

The Thames Valley extends from Oxford to west London . And the Thames Estuary is the portion of the river from east London to the town of South-end-Sea in Essex, England where the Thames River empties into the North Sea.

River Thames Destinations

Whether you take an overnight cruise or a day or evening cruise on the River Thames, you’ll spend some time cruising through the city of London. The river is lined with many historical sites and popular tourist attractions.

As you cruise through London, you’ll pass under quite a few bridges. The River Thames has 34 bridges just in London! A few of them include the Tower Bridge , London Bridge and the Westminster Bridge .

Westminster Bridge on the River Thames in London, England

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia

In addition to its many bridges, you’ll see many other famous sites along London’s skyline. The Big Ben , Tower of London , Houses of Parliament and the London Eye are all visible from the River Thames. The London Eye – a 443-foot ferris wheel - is one of the city’s most famous and popular attractions. It’s located on the south bank of the Thames.

Other destinations in the Thames Valley are west of London and include Windsor, Henley, Reading and Oxford. During your visit to these cities, you’ll have a chance to see some famous castles like the Hampton Court Palace, the Windsor Castle and the Highclere Castle, which is featured in the television series “Downtown Abbey”.

There are a few companies that offer cruises on the River on the Magna Carta – a river barge boat that carries up to eight passengers. This definitely provides a unique experience for travelers.

Aboard the Magna Carta

By Gloverepp (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons

For those who want a customized itinerary, Isabella River Cruises offers cruises to only one party at a time. They do not have a predetermined schedule or route and allow guest to choose what time they want to eat, where they want to go, what they want to see, and how long they want to stay at each destination.

What are others saying about this cruise? Read some reviews here .

Just looking for a 1-day cruise? You’ll also find several options for day cruises and evening cruises on the River Thames.

If you enjoyed reading this page, please share it with other people you think would also enjoy reading it. Thank you! :)

Lauri Wakefield  is a travel writer who specializes in  river cruises in Europe and the U.S. Connect with her on Twitter and Google+ .

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Thames Cruises

For River Thames cruises in London to and from Westminster,Tower Of London,Tower Bridge,Greenwich, Richmond,Kew and Hampton Court.Book a sightseeing cruise to Oxford, Windsor, Marlow, Henley on the Upper Thames. Canal boat trips to London Zoo,Little Venice and Broxbourne. If you want your own private party you will need this section Party Boats .

Book public River Thames boat trips for the best Thames views of London (including Big Ben, Tower of London, the Thames Barrier) or enjoy a beautiful Royal River Thames cruise from Oxford, Reading, Windsor. All bookings will be subject to the operators Covid19 restrictions and safe conditions of use from hopefully 12th April onwards.

Travel Tips. The Tidal Thames extends from Teddington down river to Dartford and Southend (40+ miles) The Upper Thames starts at Teddington up river 170+ miles ( Windsor, Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley - Oxford and beyond to its source) With so many locks on the River Thames, many journeys from on the Upper Thames can't be done in any normal day. For all other boats and boating information click here.

Join us whatever the weather

Make the most of London with a River Roamer ticket for all-day travel!

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Travel across London

From all-day passes to one way tickets, travel by boat and enjoy the views!

Sail home after a show at The O2

New dates available! On select event nights, sail back into town with us right after the show ends!

River and cable car

Experience London from the sky and the river with our joint tickets with IFS Cloud Cable Car!

Illuminated River Official Boat Tour

See London at night bathed in the light of the Illuminated River project. Every Saturday from Tower Pier.

Commute by river

Sit back, sail through rush hour and arrive stress-free. Flexible ticketing options available while season tickets offer you the best value for money

Looking for things to do in London?

We've curated a list of events happening in London this  April. From egg hunts to art trails, hop on board and we'll take you there.

Visit our online merch shop!

Purchase some of your favourite merchandise from our range and have it delivered anywhere in the UK!

Light up your weekend

Tickets are available for the Illuminated River Official Boat Tour every Saturday in January. Get yours now and see London in a new light!

Save with commuter ticket

Your morning commute now costs less with our new ‘Commuter AM‘ ticket that offers a 25% saving! Upgrade your journey into work and enjoy taking in the views with a freshly brewed coffee from the onboard café bar.

Tell us how we did!

If you’ve travelled with us recently, let us know how it went with this quick customer survey.

Looking for day out inspiration?

London is a big city... With so many options on where to go, it can be hard to decide. Luckily for you, we've done the hard work already! Head to our blog to see our recommendations on places to explore along the Thames.

Travel tools

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Guaranteed seat

Comfortable seats in climate controlled cabins or enjoy the fresh air on the outside back deck. 

Café bar

A whole range of refreshments are available from the onboard café bar.

Bikes permitted

Bring your bike on board at no extra charge. We can currently carry up to 14 bikes on our largest vessels. Pets are also welcome.

There are toilets with accessible facilities on board most of the fleet. Our larger boats also have baby changing tables.

Save time and money, download the Thames Clippers Tickets app. Buy season tickets and flexible ticket carnets.

London by river

Kids go free!

Go on an adventure with the kids. Travelling by river is a great way for families to explore London differently. They will love being on the back deck! With a Family River Roamer kids go free. 

Enjoy the café bar

Sip, snack and sail! Refreshments are available at our onboard café bar from hot drinks to alcoholic beverages and snacks.

Make special occasions extra special

Add a touch of luxury to your events with our high speed vessel Orion Clipper from VIP transfers, to birthdays and excurions with family or friends.

Accessible travel across London 

Boat accessibility information.

All our boats are wheelchair, mobility scooter and pram accessible by ramp. All boats, except Star, Storm and Sky Clipper, have accessible toilets and larger boats have baby changing tables.

All our piers are step-free and wheelchair accessible except for Cadogan, London Bridge City and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter piers.

Mobility scooter owners are welcome on board but need first to apply for our Mobility Scooter Recognition Scheme .

You can bring your guide or assistance dog on board for free.

Any person with a valid Disabled I.D. badge/card, will get 50% off ticket fares and a complimentary ticket for their carer.

Latest service updates

For the most up to date information on our services please follow   @thamesclippers on X (formerly known as Twitter). You can also find live departure information at the piers or on the Thames Clippers Tickets app.

"I would just like to say, you do an amazing job, always helpful, friendly. Provide an amazing service."

Thames River Cruises 

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is the fastest, most frequent and reliable fleet on the River Thames - carrying over 4 million passengers last year. Unlike most other forms of public transport, we are always reliable - the only days our river boats don’t run are Christmas and Boxing Day.

Thames River Boats 

Our Thames river boats are fully equipped with comfortable seating and plenty of space. Our larger river boats all have licenced on-board bars, with a range of coffees, snacks and alcoholic drinks. They all have toilet facilities, and some even have baby changing facilities. Our Thames river buses have Metro and City AM newspapers available on board and Free Wi-Fi is available at our main piers. The experience of travelling through London on a Thames river bus is unlike any other form of travel, providing an epic experience for its users. Far more enjoyable than struggling for space on a packed London Underground tube, quicker than driving or getting the bus, and less exhausting than walking or riding your bike!

Our History 

Starting in 1999 with just one boat in operation, our fleet has grown exponentially to 20 high-speed Thames river boats, offering services from all major London piers every 10-20 minutes. Our services cater for everyone from early morning commuters to night-time passengers. There are countless reasons to choose a London River Bus over any other form of transport – choose a Thames river cruise next time you need to travel through London.

Oxford River Cruise with Afternoon Tea 2024

Take a cruise down the thames in oxford and have a wonderful river experience while enjoying typical afternoon tea, about oxford sightseeing river cruise.

Explore one of England’s most famous cities by going on a lovely afternoon tea cruise along the Thames River. Indulge in the typical English tradition of afternoon tea with abundant opportunities to spot wildlife during your sightseeing river cruise.

DESCRIPTION

Oxford afternoon tea river cruise.

There is no better way to enjoy the stunning scenery of Oxford and a traditional spot of English Afternoon tea than on a calm and picturesque river cruise. See Oxford’s sandstone college buildings and pastoral greens. Get a glimpse of quintessential England and genuinely enjoy the afternoon tea on your cruise down the Thames river.

Cruise the tranquil water meadows, observe the fascinating buildings combined with countryside nature and enjoy getting to know the city of Oxford from a different perspective. Get to know the river life of Oxford on this splendid boat trip on the Thames River.

Pass along the University’s Regatta course and observe the college boat house. You’ll also arrive at Iffley Lock, where the Oxford boating culture is most prominent. While you enjoy your tea, you’ll see Rose Island, a favorite spot of Lewis Carroll.

• 1.5-hour sightseeing river cruise
• Traditional English Afternoon tea
• Live commentary on board
• Additional food and beverages (available at the departure point before the cruise departs)

Meeting Point

The meeting point of the Oxford River Cruise is at The Folly restaurant. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour starting time and have your smartphone ticket ready.

UNCOVER THE BEAUTY OF OXFORD BY GOING ON A RIVER THAMES CRUISE WITH AFTERNOON TEA!

An experience you don’t want to miss!

Indulge your senses by booking this Oxford river cruise. Get an authentic taste of England with a delicious afternoon tea.

See some of Oxford’s most famous landmarks, and pass Christ Church Meadows and university colleges.

Pass through Iffley Lock and onto serene waters where willows hang over the water and wildlife flourishes.

How long does the Oxford River cruise last?

What do oxford cruises offer, what is the best way to explore oxford, this tour is selling fast why wait and miss your spot, easy & fast online booking process, good to know before you go.

• Please arrive at the tour meeting point 15 minutes before departure.
• Any additional food and drinks are not included in the cruise price.
• This tour isn't suitable for wheelchair users.

Perfect Experience!

I highly recommend this cruise if you’re visiting Oxford! From perfect nature to tasty sweets and finger sandwiches - everything was wonderful. We enjoyed a peaceful cruise and saw Oxford from a new perspective which was very lovely.

Lovely tour

Great experience in Oxford! I had a lovely time driving around the Thames River on a cruise boat. The trees form a picture-perfect scenery and an amazing background for your traditional English Afternoon Tea. We saw the Folly Bridge, Christ Church Meadows, and training rowing crews' punts.

Book Your Oxford River Cruise with an English Afternoon experience Right Away!

• Free cancellation
• Reserve now & pay later
• Easy booking process!

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Oxford Boat Hire

For those who wish to have a more hands-on experience, we offer a wide variety of self-drive craft for hire from Oxford.

Public River Cruises

We offer a variety of hugely popular river cruises through some of the most beautiful scenery in England.

Private Charter

Salter’s passenger vessels provide the perfect venue for all kinds of events from works parties to birthdays.

Salter’s have been building boats since 1858 and are renowned for producing high quality robust craft.

Our boat hire station is now open – please pre-book day boats in advance by clicking here to avoid disappointment.

We will be offering Boat Trips from Oxford & Marlow this summer however sadly we will not be able to offer any of our scheduled services run this summer. Please see the Public Boat Trips page for more information.

Private Charters are available – please click here to enquire.

Our phone lines have now reopened however our incoming calls are extremely high, please contact us via email where possible alternatively please be patient and we will call you back as soon as we can.

160 years in the making.

Salter’s Steamers are a family firm that has provided first-class hospitality on the Royal River Thames for over 160 years  – Est. 1858. As one of the longest established firms on the Thames we own one of the largest and most exclusive fleets operating on the river. Our cruises combine traditional style, contemporary comforts and the highest modern standards.

We offer a variety of hugely popular boat trips through some of the most beautiful scenery in England. During the summer we offer boat trips from every major location on the Upper-Thames between the university city of Oxford and Marlow, including such famous places as Abingdon, Reading and Henley.

Celebrations on the Thames.

Our exclusive craft can be privately chartered as the perfect venue for all kinds of function, party or celebration, including showpiece events such as the Henley Royal Regatta.

We also hire out punts, day-boats and other small craft from Oxford, as well as operating charters on the Solent. In addition we are now offering a timetable of one-off special cruises held from a number of different locations throughout the year. These include public jazz cruises from Oxford and Windsor, special services along unusual routes such as Oxford to Wolvercote as well as different trips to mark certain events such as Bunkfest at Wallingford.

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Book your tickets within a few clicks to experience one of Oxford’s finest boat trips.

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From London To Oxford On The Thames River Tour

$ 4.95 – $ 6.99

Thames River Tour Guide:

Millions of tourists will be driving through Britain – on crowded roads we are going to miss. For a relaxed vacation with an element of adventure, try boating on the Thames!

• Description

Additional information

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An Online Tour Guide:

• to play and pause as you wish
• providing a day or two of entertainment for less than $5
• including insider tips, maps and directions
• fascinating information throughout your route
• and tons of photos because 'a picture is worth 1000 words'

The Father Thames River Tour awaits you! There is no river on earth with more history. Of the millions of tourists coming to Britain every year, very few will go up the Thames by boat. Instead, they will be driving on the crowded roads we are going to miss. We shall see a wholly different side of the country and enjoy the adventure of boating, through a series of locks, from the capital city to the oldest university city in England. Get ready for a time warp – Jerome K. Jerome’s ‘Three Men In a Boat’ of 1889! Explore these and more with your expert personal guide, available 24/7 on your schedule!

Thames River Tour Highlights

• Boat Trip on the Thames
• Through the Locks
• Exotic Homes
• Artists & Churches
• Reflections

Malcolm Hawkins

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Oxford River Cruises

• Evening Cocktail Cruise

If you are looking for the perfect way to spend a summer evening, this serene cocktail cruise offers a unique way to enjoy the river

Setting sail in an Edwardian River Launch just as the sun is waning in the sky, you can experience the wonderful changing light and distinctive calm of evening on the water, cocktail in hand.

Choose from a selection of cocktails freshly prepared by skilled bartenders at The Folly .

The cruise is a classic tour of the River Thames as it meanders around Oxford. Enjoy the tranquillity as you gently drift past Christ Church meadows, and experience the serenity of the river winding down as we pass the university boathouses. 

Departs from our moorings at The Folly, Folly Bridge, Oxford, OX1 4JU. 

The cruise lasts approximately 40 minutes. Further drinks can be purchased and enjoyed in The Folly bar.

Advance booking is essential.

This trip operates between March and October.

EVENING COCKTAIL CRUISE

Duration – 40 min

Capture the beauty of an Oxford evening, sun setting over the River Thames, accompanied by delicious cocktails on an evening cruise.

PRICES FROM

£19 Per person

AT A GLANCE

• Carefully crafted seasonal cocktail of your choice from The Folly menu
• 40 minute cruise aboard an elegant Edwardian river boat
• See Folly Island, Christ Church meadow, university boathouses and regatta course
• Available March to October

“What a relaxing end to our day. It felt like the perfect time to be on the river, with the light fading and the rowing teams out. Perfect!”

TINA CRANE, BRISTOL.

Experience a taste of river life with our wonderful partner restaurant The Folly.

Float away down the river whilst enjoying afternoon tea. A truly memorable experience.

IN THIS SECTION

• Cruise & Tasting
• Picnic Cruise
• Oxford Experience Cruise
• Cruise & Dine
• Afternoon Tea Cruise

• Southern Burgundy
• Northern Burgundy
• Canal du Midi
• Alsace-Lorraine
• Upper Loire
• Loire Valley

• Holland Cruises

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Magna Carta

• Category Premier
• Capacity 8 Guests
• Crew Members 4
• Booking Type Charter & Cabin bookings
• Check-in Time / Location 3:00 PM in London, Hotel Stafford

Cruising aboard barge Magna Carta on the Royal River Thames is a study in both antique and modern lifestyles – an ancient history book with the pages still being written.

Guests are met in London at the glamorous Stafford Hotel where they enjoy an afternoon tea. Then, the modern metropolis becomes but a distant memory upon boarding Magna Carta. Captain Dominic Read is a longtime area resident and an expert in the folklore and history of the river and its inhabitants. The cruise unfolds major historic sites alongside small slices of life: gently gliding past mansions and boathouses, as well as villages that look as if Miss Marple will pop out at any minute! History comes alive at Hampton Court Palace (where Magna Carta moors), the Tudor-style palace of King Henry the 8th; Windsor Castle, home to British royalty; and Christ Church College in Oxford University, the oldest university in the English-speaking world.

Back on board, four spacious cabins with modern en-suite baths provide havens of privacy, while the comfortable deck and light-filled indoor salon become the perfect vantage points to take in the passing scene. Dining options deliciously address outdated notions about British cuisine. Magna Carta’s menus are fresh and creative, utilizing the best of locally-sourced produce, meats, and fish. A broad selection of Old and New World wines are carefully paired with the meals.

Unlike barging in other locations, it is not possible to bicycle or walk alongside the vessel as it cruises; however, once moored, active guests can disembark to explore port towns and the surrounding countryside by bicycle or on foot.

Last visited in 2019

A Cruise on the River Thames aboard Magna Carta

Extra, extra…Read all about Barge Lady Cruises!

Accommodations & amenities, itineraries, gourmet dining, rates & dates.

• Interested in This Cruise?

Accommodations

• 117 sq ft long, with 6’4 – 7’4 ceiling height throughout
• Four Cabins
• Winston Churchill, 200 sq ft, 7’4” ceiling height, choice of  king bed or two twin beds
• Henry VIII and Shakespeare, 200 sq ft, 6’4” ceiling height, choice of king bed or two twin beds
• Christopher Wren, 200 sq ft, 6’4” ceiling height, one fixed queen bed
• Ensuite bathroom with shower in all cabins
• Adequate storage space in cabins
• Salon and dining room
• Deck with canopy
• Outdoor dining space and seating

Classic Itinerary with Daily Guided Sightseeing

Travel from Hampton Court to Henley-on-Thames on the River Thames

An English Cream Tea Begins Your Cruise in Style

In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of the Magna Carta at the designated meeting point in London. Enjoy a delightful English Cream Tea before being chauffeured to Magna Carta moored outside Hampton Court, the Tudor Palace of Henry VIII, where we remain overnight. Meet your crew at the traditional champagne reception. Tonight, enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners onboard.

Tour the Finest Tudor Palace in Existence

This morning, explore Hampton Court Palace, the Tudor home of Henry VIII. Walk through Henry’s great hall and haunted gallery and see his chapel, still used for worship today and with the finest Tudor ceiling in existence. There is much more to see including the stunning privy gardens and the famous maze! This afternoon, the Magna Carta cruises up through Molesey Lock and following the meandering path of the river to our overnight mooring on Bell Weir Lock at Runnymede. Drinks and dinner are served onboard.

Windsor Castle...Where the Royals Live

This morning's cruise takes us through Runnymede where King John put his seal on the Magna Carta in 1215, from which our vessel takes its name. This afternoon, history comes alive at Windsor Castle! Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and lived in for over 900 years by the British Royal Family, the castle boasts unrivaled displays of art, furniture, ancient armor, and royal treasure. Your Tour Guide returns you to Magna Carta for cocktail hour and dinner.

A Day of Manors and Manners

This morning's excursion is a private tour of a Tudor manor that has been in the same family for 13 generations! Authentic and iconic, the manor is regularly used for filming. Then cruise this afternoon into Clivedon Reach where we have special permission to moor. Cliveden, now a hotel, was once owned by the Astor family. Tour the grounds, discussing the political intrigue and scandal for which Cliveden is famous! A late afternoon cruise is the perfect time to laze in the hot tub. Enjoy another gourmet dinner onboard.

Traditional Boatbuilding Craftsmen at Work

This morning's sightseeing is a visit to the gallery of one of England’s greatest artists, Sir Stanley Spencer. Spencer described Cookham has “heaven on earth” and much of his work was painted in and around the village. A late morning cruise precedes a tour of Peter Freebody’s Boatyard to watch traditional craftsmen work on wooden boats as they have done for generations. Explore an 11th century village, including a tipple at Ye Olde Belle, reputed to be the oldest inn in the country. Your Tour Guide escorts you back to the barge where Chef presents dinner onboard.

Christ Church College at Oxford

A morning cruise takes us to Henley-on-Thames to our final mooring situated along the famous Henley Regatta Rowing Course. This afternoon, your Tour Guide escorts you to Oxford for a tour Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college. Founded in 1546, its magnificent surroundings have been the scene of Lewis Carroll writing Alice in Wonderland, welcomed 13 British prime ministers among its students, and just lately served as a set for the Harry Potter films. Return to Magna Carta for the Captain’s Dinner, ending your cruise in style.

A Sad Farewell

After breakfast, you will be chauffeured back to the designated drop off point in London.

Please note: this is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions. On alternate weeks the cruise will be in the reverse direction.

Downton Abbey Itinerary with Daily Guided Sightseeing

An English Cream Tea Begins your Cruise in Style

A member of Magna Carta crew will greet you at the Hotel Stafford in London at the designated meeting time. Enjoy a delightful English Cream Tea before being chauffeured to Magna Carta moored outside Hampton Court, the Tudor Palace of Henry VIII, where we remain overnight. Meet your crew at the traditional champagne reception. Tonight enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners onboard.

This morning, explore Hampton Court Palace, the Tudor home of Henry VIII. Walk through Henry’s great hall and haunted gallery and see his chapel, still used for worship today and with the finest Tudor ceiling in existence. There is much more to see including the stunning privy gardens and the famous maze! This afternoon, the Magna Carta cruises up through Molesey Lock and following the meandering path of the river to our overnight mooring on Bell Weir Lock at Runnymede. Drinks and dinner are served aboard.

Visit the Castle where Downton Abbey is Filmed!

This morning, your Tour Guide chauffeurs you to Highclere Castle, scene of the popular television series Downton Abbey. Highclere Castle is one of England's most beautiful Victorian Castles set amidst 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland. Our public tour reveals several grand reception, drawing, and dining rooms on the first floor, along with a brief look into a select few of the home’s 50 bedrooms! Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise, a visit to an art gallery, and a stroll around the village mooring. Dinner is served onboard.

A morning cruise takes us to Henley- on-Thames to our final mooring situated along the famous Henley Regatta Rowing Course. This afternoon, your Tour Guide escorts you to Oxford for a tour Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college. Founded in 1546, its magnificent surroundings have been the scene of Lewis Carroll writing Alice in Wonderland, welcomed 13 British prime ministers among its students, and just lately served as a set for the Harry Potter films. Return to Magna Carta for the Captain’s Dinner, ending your cruise in style.

After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point in London.

Royal Cruise Itinerary with Daily Guided Sightseeing

An English Cream Tea Begins Your Cruise in Royal Style

In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of the Magna Carta at the designated meeting point in London. Enjoy a delightful English Cream Tea before being chauffeured to Magna Carta moored outside Hampton Court, the Tudor Palace of Henry VIII, where the vessel remains overnight. Meet your crew at the traditional champagne reception. Tonight, enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners onboard.

Welcome to Henry VIII’s Royal Palace

This morning, the immersion into “Royal England” begins in the vast palace of a most iconic monarch: Henry VIII. Discover Henry VIII’s rooms, the Royal Chapel, and the kitchen gardens on a private tour with local expert Lesley Richardson. A resident and guide of Hampton Court for over twenty years, Lesley shares dishy anecdotes and insider's secrets about famous (and infamous) palace residents! Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise. Once moored, explore the riverside path by bicycle or on foot before another gourmet dinner.

Secrets of Windsor Castle with a Noble Military Knight

This morning's cruise takes us through Runnymede where King John put his seal on the Magna Carta in 1215! This afternoon, European history comes alive at Windsor Castle, notable for its long association with the English and later British royal family. A uniformed Military Knight of Windsor introduces a “behind the scenes” tour of the castle, offering access to original art, sophisticated architecture, and royal treasure. Return to Magna Carta, where Chef is putting the final touches on a gourmet dinner fit for a King.

A Day of Monarchs, Manors, and Manners

Manors and manners are on offer today thanks to two tours of fascinating estates. Begin the British adventures with a private visit to Dorney Court, one of England's finest Tudor Manor houses, dating from around 1440. Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise to our mooring on the Clivedon Estate. After walking through the grand gardens, step inside for a tea and a “butler’s guide” to the personalities and scandals associated with over 350 years of aristocratic life at Clivedon House. Relive the day over drinks and dinner.

Welcome to One of England’s Oldest Stately Homes

Relax on deck this morning as Magna Carta glides past the enchanting scenery of the Royal River Thames. This afternoon, your Tour Guide accompanies you to Stonor Park, the seat of the Stonor family, Baron Camoys, for over 850 years. Tour this astonishingly preserved historic country home with a Stonor family member, discovering the 12th century private chapel, as well as the remains of a prehistoric stone circle. Return to the barge and explore the riverside path with a gentle pedal or leisurely stroll before tonight's delicious dinner.

A Private Tour of Highclere Castle

Regattas and rowing are foundations of the lifestyles along the Royal River Thames; this morning, a visit to Peter Freebody’s boatyard introduces craftsmen who restore vintage vessels using ancient techniques. After an early lunch, it's a but mere drive to Highclere Castle, home to many of the iconic scenes in the beloved drama "Downton Abbey". On this private tour, guests will explore the rooms, grounds, and gardens of this stately home, as well meet and greet members of the Highclere household. Back onboard, a Farewell Feast awaits.

Breakfast selections consist of freshly baked goods from a local boulangerie, along with fruit, cereal, yogurt, cheese, coffee, tea, and juice. For lunches and dinners, your onboard Chef creates regionally and seasonally inspired fare. Lunch is typically a light buffet featuring hearty salads and savory entrees, and your multi-course gourmet dinner is served with grand table settings and fine crockery, all in a festive setting. Wine pairings feature a red and a white from area vineyards, along with a cheese platter of artisanal favorites. Note these are sample menus. Bon Appetit!

• Couscous with Raisins and Pine Nuts
• Bouillabaisse with Toasted Sourdough and Saffron Aioli
• Cheeses: Claxton Bleu and Cheddar
• A Selection of Coffees, Teas, and Biscuits
• Sweet Corn Veloute
• Pork Tenderloin with Honey Roasted Carrots
• Cheeses: Cropwell Bishop Organic, Stilton, and Dunsyre Blue Bath
• Poached Pear with Gingerbread and Vanilla Ice Cream
• A Selection of After Dinner Drinks
• Cote-du-Rhone 2009, Rasteau, France
• Rioja 2010,  Baron De Barbon, Spain
• Don Cayetano Merlot Baroncini Rosso di Montalcino
• Les Pontilles, Sauvignon Blanc
• Petit Chablis 2010, France
• Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Split Rock, New Zealand

Italic Dates = Value Season Gray Bold Dates = Regular Season

Additional Details

Included in the rate.

• 6 nights/7 days in a cabin with a private bath
• Round trip chauffeured transfers to and from London
• A dedicated onboard crew consisting of a Captain, Chef, Tour Guide, and Hostess
• All meals onboard and ashore from dinner the first evening to breakfast the final morning
• All wines served with lunches and dinners both onboard and ashore
• Open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Daily escorted excursions including admittance fees
• Unlimited use of onboard amenities such as bicycles and the hot tub

Not included in the rate

• International airfare
• Cancellation insurance – A Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy is recommended
• Suggested crew gratuity of 5-10% of the cruise price

*All rates are quoted in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise noted

“We so enjoyed the entire experience. The crew was exceptional. The cabin accommodations were generous and most comfortable. We didn’t realize how much we would enjoy cruising down the Thames!” – Nancy and Bill S, Magna Carta

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Take in the best of London’s waterside viewpoints with our Thames River sightseeing cruise, from Tower Bridge Quay to Westminster. We pride ourselves on being a family-run business, ensuring every guest feels welcome the minute they step aboard our boats. Our friendly crew will make sure you have an enjoyable experience throughout your time with us, and we look forward to welcoming you onto the Thames. Select a one-way or round-trip cruise from Tower Bridge Quay to Westminster, with regular departures and spectacular city views over famous landmarks including the Tower of London, The Shard, HMS Belfast, Shakespeare's Globe, the Tate Modern, the National Theatre, the London Eye, and Westminster Palace.

Yes. Always confirm with ticket office or crew as to the time of the last boat.

The journey time from Tower Bridge Quay to Westminster Pier is 20 minutes.

With the round-trip ticket, you’ll need to change boats at Westminster Pier for the return trip.

Yes, we have fully-licensed bars selling a wide range of tasty snacks and drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic.

Westminster lies in the heart of London and the list of attractions here is seemingly endless. Highlights include the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Southbank, and The Sea Life London Aquarium. You can find more details on our Attractions page.

+44 20 3778 0700 [email protected]

Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment. London, SW1A 2JH

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