River Thames Walk with London Guided Walks in London
Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves walking roughly 2 miles at a gentle pace with frequent stops.
Overview
Join London Guided Walks for a 90-minute walk tracing the River Thames’s rich history, from medieval sanitation to modern bridges. This guided tour reveals hidden stories and offers a new perspective on London's waterfront.
River Thames Walk
90 Minutes • All Ages
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join Susan for an engaging 90-minute guided walk along the River Thames, where you'll uncover the rich history of London’s waterfront. Discover the origins of the nursery rhyme ‘London Bridge is Falling Down,’ explore medieval sanitation, and marvel at the city’s first new bridge in over a century. Experience captivating storytelling and fascinating insights into the Thames's role in trade and politics.
River Thames Walk
Duration
90 Minutes
About
London River Thames walk
- Explore the City's changing river front Learn the use of the river Thames and the London which has grown around it.
Is the Thames important for London even now?
Join Susan, you City of London guide, for a 90 minute guided walk along the Thames river. Hear the origins of the nursery rhyme ‘London Bridge is falling down’, visit the location of medieval public toilets.
Marvel at the engineering of London's first bridge for 100 years. Learn about Queen Matilda and King Alfred and the importance of Queenhithe.
- An enjoyable walk along the river Thames
- Hear about the famous Dick Whittington
- Meet other adventurous souls
Susan Baker, a qualified City of London guide
Suitable for all age groups. Please note all children must be accompanied by an adult.
River Thames Reviews
Elaine (5/5) - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Another fun, entertaining and educational guided walk. How they remember all the facts and figures I will never know. Can't wait till the next one."
Julia and Rajabali (5/5) - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Interesting walk with Susan. Even though I had been along some of the route before she pointed out lots of quirky points of interest and gave us great explanations. It was quite a distance to travel and she was more than happy to go over the allotted time. Would thoroughly recommend"
Susan (5/5) - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Usually frequent the South Bank but the North Bank is a great place to walk, with lots of interesting facts and hidden gems along the way. Our friendly and very knowledgeable guide, Susan, provided us with a very thorough history of the area over the centuries. Highly recommend"
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk covers about 2 miles on varied paved surfaces, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential.
Bring a Water Bottle
Carry water with you, especially during warmer months, as there are limited drinking fountains along the route.
Check Lift Status for Accessibility
If you require wheelchair access, confirm that the Blackfriars Bridge lift is operational before booking the tour.
Dress for the Weather
London’s weather can be unpredictable—layers and a waterproof jacket help keep you comfortable during rain or shine.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans gliding on the Thames
- Pied wagtails flitting along the embankment
History
The River Thames has been a central feature of London’s development, serving as a medieval trade route and shaping the city’s infrastructure for centuries.
Conservation
Efforts along the Thames focus on balancing urban development with riverbank habitat preservation, ensuring this historic waterway remains vital and clean.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Protect your feet on urban pavements and ensure a comfortable walking experience.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during warmer months or on sunny days along the river.
summer specific
Waterproof Jacket
London weather can shift quickly; a waterproof jacket keeps you dry and comfortable.
spring|fall|winter specific
Light Backpack
Carry essentials like snacks, maps, or a camera without weighing you down.