London , United Kingdom

Small-Group River Thames Bike Tour

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(51 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Take this small-group bike tour along the River Thames and explore London's central riverside by bicycle! On this 4-hour guided bike tour, you'll see London's main attractions, including Big Ben, the London Eye and St Paul's Cathedral. Cycle across the Tower Bridge after we discover the culinary variety of Borough Market during a short lunch break.

Numbers are limited to 12 people on this small-group tour, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your expert guide.

Available options

Small Group River Thames Tour

Guaranteed Small Groups

What's included

Guided bike tour

Use of bike and helmet for the duration of the tour

Stop for lunch (morning departures only)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Hop on a bicycle and take a guided small-group bike tour along the River Thames, right through the heart of central London. During its 2,000 years of existence, London has faced plagues, great fires, wars and more that have continuously shaped its cityscape -- your local expert guide will actively lead you through this history as you sightsee, making your trip an educational and enjoyable experience. During this bike tour, cycle on both banks of the Thames, admiring London's top attractions and stopping along the way for photo opportunities. Part of your itinerary will be determined by your guide on the day, depending on the group's overall preferences.

Your sightseeing will include Big Ben, the London Eye, St Paul's Cathedral, Borough Market, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, the Tower of London and the Tower Bridge

Stop 2

Elizabeth Tower is the name of the famous clock tower which stands at the Houses of Parliament. The name Big Ben is often used to describe the tower, the clock and the bell but the name was first given to the Great Bell.

Stop 3

Elegantly rotating over the River Thames, it's the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel.

Stop 4

St. Paul's has been the site of many historic state occasions; including Sir Winston Churchill's state funeral and the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.

Stop 5

One of London's most famous landmarks, the historic Tower houses the Crown Jewels, the prison cell of Sir Walter Raleigh, known as the Bloody Tower, and the Chapel of St. John and the Royal Armories.

Stop 6

Founded by American actor and director Sam Wanamaker, Shakespeare's Globe explores Shakespeare's work and the playhouse for which he wrote

Stop 7

Stop for a lunch break at Borough Market (morning departures only), one of London's largest food markets, famous for its wide range of food from all over the world.

Stop 8

Fortified, you will continue your tour, crossing one of London's most popular bridges, the Tower Bridge. From Tower Bridge you will pedal on to the area known as the City of London - the city’s financial center - where you’ll see some of the modern glass skyscrapers that have appeared more recently on the famous London skyline.

Stop 9 Pass by

You’ll then head on past the Monument to the Great Fire.

Stop 10

See Leadenhall Market - one of London’s hidden 14th-century gems – and hear how it featured in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Stop 11

Make your way past an old medieval church that was bombed during the World War II blitz before cycling over London Bridge and back to Southwark - where your tour ends. Along the way, you'll also get a beer tasting included an authentic London pub!

What's not included

Cost of lunch (lunch stop on morning departures only)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

24 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

27 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Due to the itinerary of the tour we would recommend this bike tour only to advanced cyclists; as such the tour is not recommended for children

Minimum age is 12 years

Meeting point

If exiting Waterloo station, you can look for exit 2, then make a left out of the exit followed by your first left onto Mepham Street. You will then see our office across the street.

About London

London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and dynamic cultural scene. From the ancient Tower of London to the modern Shard, the city offers a blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.

Top Attractions

Tower of London

A historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames. It has served as a royal palace, prison, armory, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are also housed here.

Historical 2-3 hours £28 (adult ticket)

Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony and tour the State Rooms during the summer.

Historical 1-2 hours £27.50 (adult ticket for State Rooms)

The British Museum

One of the world's largest and most comprehensive museums, housing a vast collection of artifacts from around the globe.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (special exhibitions may have a charge)

The London Eye

A giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offering panoramic views of the city.

Entertainment 30 minutes £27-£33 (adult ticket)

Westminster Abbey

A large, mainly Gothic abbey church just to the west of the Palace of Westminster. It is one of the most notable religious buildings in the UK and the traditional place of coronation and burial for English and, later, British monarchs.

Religious 1-2 hours £27 (adult ticket)

Tower Bridge

An iconic symbol of London, this combined bascule and suspension bridge spans the River Thames. Visitors can explore the bridge's walkways and the Tower Bridge Exhibition.

Architecture 1-2 hours £11 (adult ticket for the exhibition)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish and Chips

A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries).

Dinner Contains gluten and fish

Full English Breakfast

A hearty breakfast consisting of eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast.

Breakfast Contains meat and gluten

Afternoon Tea

A quintessential British tradition involving a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, all served with tea.

Snack Can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets

Sunday Roast

A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Rock climbing Kayaking on the Thames Cycling tours Afternoon tea Spas and wellness centers Punting on the River Cam Museum visits Theater performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in London, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and events. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be unpredictable.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

London is generally safe for travelers, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Heathrow Airport • 23 km from city center
Gatwick Airport • 40 km from city center

By train

London Waterloo, London King's Cross

By bus

Victoria Coach Station, Earls Court, Farringdon

Getting around

Public transport

The Tube is the fastest and most efficient way to get around London. It operates from early morning until late at night and covers all major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Westminster Camden Town Soho Notting Hill Shoreditch Greenwich

Day trips

Windsor Castle

34 km from London • Half day to full day

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it's one of the official residences of the British monarch.

Stonehenge

130 km from London • Full day

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, located in the English county of Wiltshire.

Brighton

80 km from London • Full day

Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, lively atmosphere, and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Festivals

Notting Hill Carnival • Last Sunday and Monday of August London Film Festival • October New Year's Eve Fireworks • December 31

Pro tips

Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for cheaper and more convenient public transportation
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions to skip the queue and save money
Explore the city's neighborhoods and markets for a unique and authentic experience
Try the local street food and international cuisine at markets like Borough Market and Camden Market
Visit the city's parks and gardens for a peaceful escape from the bustling streets