Why sightseeing by boat is the ultimate travel experience
After four successful years on the water, the Terrible Thames river tour is back with a bang this season. Climb aboard with the kids and prepare to learn a host of grisly facts about our capital city - all while enjoying a unique chance to view London’s major sights. If you’ve never tried sightseeing by boat, here are some of the best reasons to get on board this summer!
A new perspective
One of the best things about a river tour is that you’ll get a new perspective on landmarks you may have seen many times. Waterways were once key to our civilisation, bringing in goods and luxuries from far-flung places - not to mention exotic creatures and strange tales. By sightseeing from the Thames, you’ll see London as the sailors in times past saw it, from the imposing Tower of London looming over the water to the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral and the spires of Westminster Abbey.
A treasure trove of facts
Self-guided sightseeing can be a fun way to take in all the city’s monuments at your own pace, but taking a river tour in London means that you will not only see the sights, you’ll learn about them too. Boat tours are a chance to discover more about the history of the city, its architecture and the river’s role in daily life, with engaging commentary from a knowledgeable guide. Of course, if you choose to take the Terrible Thames tour, you’ll get all the most gruesome facts - from details of Captain Kidd’s execution to the story of Guy Fawkes’ failed gunpowder plot.
Away from the hustle and bustle
There’s something undeniably relaxing about being on the water and sightseeing by boat. The Thames was once a busy waterway, with galleons, sloops, clippers and more coming and going. But with today’s transport network, the river is calmer, offering a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
A faster way to sightsee
Often, sightseeing involves a lot of walking or taking buses in order to get to each site. But with a river tour, your path takes you straight down the middle, meaning you can see the landmarks on either bank of the river as you go. Many of London’s most famous monuments were built on the banks of the Thames for strategic or symbolic reasons. Since the river was a key transport route through the city, it made sense for political and religious buildings, palaces and more to have access. Hopping on a boat is therefore the quickest and most efficient way of taking in the sights if your time is limited or you prefer a more relaxing way to explore.
Discover the Terrible Thames
If you want to see London from a new perspective and learn all its macabre secrets, don’t miss the Terrible Thames river tour. Setting sail from Tower Bridge Quay in school holidays from 3 April 2025, it’s the perfect way to explore our capital city. Book your tickets with KX Tickets today for an adventure to remember.
