Afternoon Tea River Cruise on the Thames
London, England
- 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
To maximize limited time in London, combine a British tradition with a sightseeing excursion on an afternoon tea cruise on the Thames River. As you sail from Tower Pier to Westminster, admire London landmarks including the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye—without having to navigate or jostle among the large crowds that gather at the monuments. Plus, indulge in tea, freshly prepared cakes, and sandwiches.
- This compact tour is perfect for travelers short on time in London
- See legendary London landmarks without having to walk to each one
- Sip on a cup of tea, and enjoy a selection of British cakes, scones, and sandwiches
- Check off plenty of the area’s highlights in just one tour
Why Travelers Choose This Tour
Pair classic afternoon tea with a Thames cruise–two quintessential London experiences in one.
What's Included
- 1.5-Hour Cruise
- Afternoon tea - selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones
- Unrivalled views of riverside London
- Unlimited tea or coffee
- Live or recorded commentary
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Champagne
- Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Tower Millennium PierLondon EC3N 4DT, UK
situated within walking distance to Tower Hill underground Station Please go directly to the boarding gate.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Operating hours.3:30 pm
Itinerary
In the afternoon, head to Tower Pier in central London to board the teatime cruise along the Thames River. Find your seat in the cozy indoor saloon and enjoy panoramic views of the city shoreline as your cruise begins.
Heading west from Tower Pier, first pass the mystery-laden Tower of London and the monolithic Shard building, a 95-story pyramid of glass. Continue on to Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre, a stunning Elizabethan playhouse with running performances, and the towering London Eye. Along the South Bank, see a medley of buskers, locals, and tourists meandering on the bustling pedestrian path. Your cruise loops at Westminster, for great views of the Houses of Parliament before heading back east.
As you cruise, indulge in British culinary delights like scones spread with jam and spoonfuls of cream, finger sandwiches, cakes, and unlimited tea and coffee. For an added treat, order a glass of bubbly (own expense) from the onboard bar. After tea, feel free to wander the open-air deck as you arrive back at Tower Pier.
Heading west from Tower Pier, first pass the mystery-laden Tower of London and the monolithic Shard building, a 95-story pyramid of glass. Continue on to Shakespeare’s famous Globe Theatre, a stunning Elizabethan playhouse with running performances, and the towering London Eye. Along the South Bank, see a medley of buskers, locals, and tourists meandering on the bustling pedestrian path. Your cruise loops at Westminster, for great views of the Houses of Parliament before heading back east.
As you cruise, indulge in British culinary delights like scones spread with jam and spoonfuls of cream, finger sandwiches, cakes, and unlimited tea and coffee. For an added treat, order a glass of bubbly (own expense) from the onboard bar. After tea, feel free to wander the open-air deck as you arrive back at Tower Pier.
1
City Cruises
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Tower of London (Pass By)
London Eye (Pass By)
Tower Bridge (Pass By)
Canary Wharf (Pass By)
The Shard (Pass By)
HMS Belfast (Pass By)
St. Paul's Cathedral (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- 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 and within close proximity. Our panoramic windows provide great views from all angles of the passing sky-line, regardless of your table location.
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Most travelers can participate
- We do not guarantee that products are free from nuts or traces of nuts. For gluten-free tea give at least 24 hours’ notice. For any special dietary requirements please call us after booking.
- Please note that as part of the relaxed atmosphere of this cruise experience, your table may be situated in close proximity to other guests.
- Please ensure you arrive 20-minutes prior to departure time
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 60 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Erica_S
We had the most delightful afternoon tea while cruising along the Thames, and it was an absolute highlight of our trip to London! From the moment we stepped on board, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The staff were attentive and friendly, making sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed.
The tea service itself was wonderful—beautifully presented tiers of sandwiches, scones, and pastries paired with a great selection of teas (and bubbly if you fancied). Everything tasted fresh and indulgent, with just the right balance of sweet and savory.
What made it truly special was enjoying all of this while gliding past London’s most iconic landmarks. We sipped our tea with views of the London Eye, the Shard, Tower Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament—it felt like sightseeing and a special occasion rolled into one. The pace of the cruise was perfect, giving us plenty of time to relax, chat, and take photos without ever feeling rushed.
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience London, I can’t recommend this enough. It’s a wonderful blend of tradition, indulgence, and sightseeing that leaves you smiling long after you step off the boat
Reviews
4.2
based on 1,001 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Andrea_B, Jul 2026
it was a lovely afternoon food and tea were delicious. Service was slow but accommodating. I would do this again
Esther_P, Jul 2026
Loved the music, the air conditioning (IYKYK), and the food was delicious. Tea was wonderful. Had a wonderful time. The commentary was at the last leg of the excursion and it was nice.
Melissa_F, Jul 2026
Didn’t know what to expect but was pleasantly surprised. The boat had a well crafted layout and the staff were very nice. The tea, sandwiches, and biscuits were nicely presented. Was a unique way to see many of London’s most famous landmarks.
Linda_W, Jul 2026
So much better than we could have ever have imagined. All was brilliant, boat, staff & tea. Loved it
Destiny_C, Jul 2026
Absolutely the best! We had such a great time and throughly enjoyed the trip! Staff were prompt on boarding the boat and we left right on time! We enjoyed the scones with clotted cream and strawberry perserves and the super fruit pink tea the most! The boat went in a big circle so you got to view both sides of the river!
Andrea_V, Jul 2026
When you schedule tea, and have stood in line for 30 minutes, their priority should be getting everyone tea. Then, someone can deliver the food. But their first priority is selling alcohol. It is a 90-minute cruise, and it was well after the 45-minute mark when they put the tray on the table. I tried the red sandwich. Oops..Cajan! Mouth burning, no tea. Tea came 10 minutes later. Now everything is rushed, there is tons of food, and very little time to enjoy it. Boat moved very fast, so we saw a lot, but it just added to the frenzy.
Juanita_S, Jul 2026
The VIATOR London Tea Cruise was an unforgettable experience, made even more special by the incredible hospitality of the staff. Our waitress, whose name starts with a "W," went above and beyond by creating an impromptu gluten-free cake tray for our friend who hadn't ordered one, ensuring she could fully enjoy the experience with us. Boris, the supervisor, was absolutely wonderful—after learning we were of Mexican descent and that Mexico had lost to England in the World Cup the night before, he playfully cheered, "Mexico!" each time he passed by, making us laugh as if we were at a soccer match. He even brought me a glass of ice because he knew that, as a Texan, I enjoy iced tea instead of hot tea, which was such a thoughtful and personal touch. Boris checked on us throughout the cruise, filling our afternoon with kindness, laughter, and genuine warmth, while our waitress made us feel truly cared for. Thank you, Boris and our amazing waitress—you both turned a lovely tea cruise into a memory we'll cherish, and your outstanding service deserves to be recognized!
Michael_L, Jul 2026
The river tour is a delightful way to see the Thames and the sights alongside. The boat was comfortable and the service was fine. I wish there had been a little more narrative from the tour guide as he saved his overview to the last leg of the cruise and I felt there might have been other info to learn about the city. Tea was good and the food was good but not exceptional. I do recommend as a good way to see the city overall.
Kellie_C, Jul 2026
This was a very enjoyable river cruise. Unfortunately, it was a very hot day and so the dining room was very warm.
William_R, Jul 2026
Very good sandwiches cakes and scones also commentary about the landmarks was good overall trip was excellent
Nancy_M, Jul 2026
The tea items were very tasty and the boat ride was fun. It was a bit difficult to hear the announcements about the various sites along the route. The worst part was the unbearable heat while we were there. Although it was air conditioned, it was not able to keep up with the heatwave. By the end of the experience I was very hot and ready to get off the boat. If it wasn’t for the heat, it would have been fabulous!
Norma_R, Jul 2026
Very disappointed in this company. We were delayed in arriving to the boat because the Tube was delayed. We arrived 4 minutes late and were told we had missed our tour boat. The company then refused to allow us to rebook for the following day without a 50% rebooking fee. We were also told the wrong arrival time on Viator app. We were out the entire cost. I would steer clear of booking with this company. They are bad news.
Susan_L, Jul 2026
The river tour plus tea nicely organized and very pleasant. The staff were efficient and friendly. Great way to wind up our stay in London.
Cristin_A, Jun 2026
It was a relaxing time after all the walking. it was a great to refresh before heading back to hotel. Treats were great and tea was the perfect end of our day
Kristen_L, Jun 2026
The river cruise was perfect! The seating was so comfortable, the sights were amazing, and the food and drinks were delicious! It was the perfect way to spend an afternoon after an overnight flight with very tired kids. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Melanie_C, Jun 2026
The cruise was informative and the food delicious! We celebrated our wedding anniversary and will remember it fondly.
Rebecca_G, Jun 2026
This was our last day in England and a nice way to finish our trip. Going down the Thames and enjoying a delicious tea with sandwiches. Our boat host was wonderful and entertaining. He gave us history and made us laugh. This is a must before you go home.
Mark_C, Jun 2026
Once on board was very well run. Selection of sandwiches and cakes was good. Scone was warm and moist
Commentary was a bit hit and miss but entertaining
Laura_M, Jun 2026
Food is good and enough for a full meal. Servers are nice and attentive. Tea has stained some of the plates and cups. Overall a lovely experience.
Maja_B, Jun 2026
A very fun and unique way to see London and get a feel for many of the sights. Make sure to arrive early, as the boat leaves promptly at 3:30.
Diane_T, Jun 2026
It doesn't really matter if you get in line early, your table is reserved.
Come hungry, there's a lot to eat! Wine special, 2 glasses for 12 pounds, very worth it and good quality.
Service was very well organized and the self-proclaimed non-professional narrator was great & humorous!
WILLIAM_M, Jun 2026
A wonderful cruise with great commentary. The tea and food were great. The optional champagne was a nice touch to a great afternoon.
Kathleen_L, Jun 2026
What a great way to see the major sites and then some. The tour was just long enough, the tea and food were plentiful. I suggest ordering the 2 glass champagne special as a little something extra. Boris was our waiter and was very attentive!
Laura_C, Jun 2026
Very relaxing. Wonderful tea and treats. Good commentary. Lots to see and learn. Friendly staff. Highly recommended!
JulieYoung, Jun 2026
Unfortunately we didnt make it as I booked the wrong month. Should have e booked for July. So I have to try book again 🙃
Naomi_K, Jun 2026
This was great! We booked it last minute and I am so glad we found this tour. The food and tea were wonderful! And the cruise was perfect. We got to see a lot and enjoy British high tea at the same time. This is well worth the price. There were 4 in our group and all loved this tour. Highly recommend this over the bus tea tours!
Sarah_C, Jun 2026
The river cruise was a nice way to see London for the very first time. Iconic sights are all on this tour. Starting at the Tower Millennium Pier is great as the Tower of London sits adjacent. Exciting to see day 1 of a week long London visit! The enclosed area where we drank tea was a bit hot as it was a sunny day, which made drinking the steaming tea uncomfortable. We needed more ventilation. Sandwiches and scones were good but the desserts were mediocre. Wait staff was polite and helpful but service was slow. We were the last to receive food and others on the tour finished eating and drinking before we got our tea service. I might op for just a tour next time.
Michelle_S, Jun 2026
The food is not great. The boat ride is nice on the River Thames. The weight staff on the boat were nice enough. The crew did a great job.
Mark_H, Jun 2026
My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the Afternoon Tea River Cruise on the Thames. After several busy days of sightseeing, it was a wonderful opportunity to slow down, relax, and experience London from a completely different perspective. The food was very good, with a nice selection of sandwiches, pastries, desserts, and plenty of tea.
What made the cruise special was the view from the river. Watching landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, and the London skyline pass by while enjoying afternoon tea created a uniquely British experience. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere on board was comfortable and welcoming.
If you're looking for a break from the crowds and constant walking, I highly recommend this cruise. It combines sightseeing, good food, and a relaxing setting into one memorable experience and was one of our favorite activities in London.
James_W, Jun 2026
I traveled from the United States with a group of friends and family. When we arrived at the gate, they told us our reservations had been canceled. I received no email whatsoever nor have I received a refund!! I was not the only one this happened to on this particular visit! This was the only thing that was planned ahead on our trip and it didn’t come through.
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Afternoon Tea River Cruise on the Thames
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