Without It, London Would Not Exist
Winding river flows through Oxford, Windsor, Reading, connecting England's pastoral towns and prosperous estuary, leaving a flowing feast in London.
It is called a museum embodying 'Englishness'.
It also represents the idealised, harmonious pastoral landscape of England.
It inspired poetry about England.
Its rich variety and ever-changing nature perfectly suit the British taste.
— Peter Ackroyd, Thames
England's charm is much related to the River Thames. Typical English pastoral towns always have it. The rowing competition between Oxford and Cambridge is held on the Thames every year, and those famous bridges are also located on this renowned river. It is a thread running through London's history and classic architecture. To understand London, why not start from the Thames.
Undoubtedly, the best way to view the Thames is by taking a cruise, from the magnificent Westminster area all the way to the serene Greenwich area, easily taking in all of London's iconic landmarks and also getting perfect angles for photos with classic attractions.
Thames River Cruise ticket price: £20.40. Free entry with Go City Pass.
The cruise starts at Westminster Pier. The splendid Westminster Abbey is located here. This Gothic building is the coronation church of England and the venue for royal weddings. The church houses many ceremonial items, offering a glimpse of royal rituals. From any angle, it possesses breathtaking charm.
Westminster Abbey ticket price: £18.00. Free entry with Go City Pass.
The classic Baroque domed church St. Paul's differs in style from Westminster Abbey but is equally magnificent. Its circular symmetry is breathtaking. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the church for a view of the Thames riverside.
St. Paul's Cathedral ticket price: £20.0. Free entry with Go City Pass.
Disembark at Tower Pier to see this British Forbidden City. It has played an important role in British history, serving as a castle, palace, treasury, arsenal, Royal Mint, prison, and even a zoo. Explore this medieval castle to learn the traces time has left on London.
Tower of London ticket price: £28.90. Free entry with Go City Pass.
The most popular bridge on the Thames is Tower Bridge. Its classic pointed towers and blue-and-white cables have become a London icon. It is a suspension bridge that also opens. When large ships pass, the central bascules rise. From a cruise, you can observe this spectacular sight up close.
Tower Bridge ticket price: £10.60. Free entry with Go City Pass.
The cruise ends at Greenwich Pier. It's worth getting off to visit the classic Royal Observatory Greenwich. Stand on the Prime Meridian for a photo! There is a curious clock at the entrance - the most accurate time clock in the world. Remember to check your watch against it.
Royal Observatory Greenwich ticket price: £18.00. Free entry with Go City Pass.
London's most impressive sights are along the Thames. Here also records London's long history. No wonder Peter Ackroyd said in Thames: Without it, the city of London would not exist.
