Review: London River Thames Walking Tour – Big Ben to Tower Bridge

So, you’re thinking of seeing London, are you? And maybe skipping the tube, eh? Well, you’re in luck! A stroll along the River Thames, from Big Ben to Tower Bridge, is just a terrific way to experience some classic London landmarks. It’s almost a condensed version of London history, architecture, and just overall, British charm, you know? Let’s, in a way, take a closer look at what this walk has to offer and see if it’s a winner for your travel plans.

Starting at the Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben)

Right then, beginning our walk near the Elizabeth Tower, fondly known as Big Ben, you know, is like stepping into a postcard. First things first, obviously get your photos in! Even though the tower has been under wraps for restoration, like a surprising amount of time, it still makes an impression, you know? You’re very close to the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. It’s basically where British politics and royal history sort of collide, you know?

There’s also a vibe in the area, with tourists and locals alike milling around. Very often there are street performers trying their luck. Before starting eastward, like, towards Tower Bridge, just, like, maybe take a minute to absorb the atmosphere and grab a coffee from one of the nearby stands.

One tip: check the opening times for Westminster Abbey if you are interested in popping inside. It gets a bit crowded and you want to, basically, allow enough time, and all that. As a matter of fact, booking a ticket ahead can save you from standing in what might be a really long line, you know?

Walking Past the London Eye and South Bank

Ok, heading east along the river, you will come to the London Eye. If you’re thinking, like, about going for a ride, it provides terrific views. However, so too does the riverside walk, right? And this is absolutely free, and like, pretty entertaining, right?

The South Bank is bustling and really, filled with street performers, food stalls, and just a general sense of, you know, merriment, like? This stretch of the walk really does feel like, well, a festival all year round, in some respects. You’ll come across the Southbank Centre, too, which puts on shows, exhibitions, and free events, so, yeah, like, do check what’s on when you plan to visit. There’s a lot going on in this area, honestly.

As a matter of fact, for a really unique experience, think about a ride on the London Eye at sunset. Sure, it costs some, you know, but the views as the sun drops behind the city skyline? Definitely spectacular.

Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe

Alright, carry on your walk a bit further and you’ll get to the Tate Modern. It’s in an old power station building, so yeah, it is cool just on its own. Even if modern art, like, isn’t your thing, you could still pop in, to see the Turbine Hall. Maybe check out what temporary exhibits they are running, okay? Entry to the permanent collection is free too, by the way, like!

Basically just a few minutes further along, Shakespeare’s Globe appears! Reconstructed true to the design of the original theatre where Shakespeare’s plays premiered, you know? So, taking a tour of the Globe is really worth it if you want to learn about the history of the place. Going to a play, there is terrific but do make certain to book in advance. Standing tickets in the yard can be, well, budget-friendly but think about the weather; because you are outside. Obviously.

Just an idea: after visiting the Globe, you could just stop for a meal at one of the pubs or restaurants close to Borough Market. They generally serve up traditional food, alright?

Borough Market and HMS Belfast

Borough Market is next, and, basically, it’s a foodie’s, just you know, dream. So many stalls with different cuisines. And produce as well! It is like, rather, rather packed on weekends so consider a weekday visit if you dislike crowds, and like, you prefer taking your time trying the foods available, like.

Very near Borough Market is HMS Belfast, that, like, rather mighty warship permanently docked on the Thames. HMS Belfast did see action in the Second World War, and it offers, actually, a unique insight into naval history, you know? A tour of the ship just really allows you to see the living conditions, the engine rooms, and the bridge. Yeah, like, that’s all fascinating stuff, is it not? There are, apparently, interactive exhibits that can give you a great, overall sense of what life was like for the crew on board. As a matter of fact, kids just basically, especially find it super cool.

If you’re looking to, in a way, rest a bit after the hustle and bustle of Borough Market, you could perhaps find a peaceful spot by the river close to HMS Belfast. Really, the views are, like, kind of amazing.

Approaching Tower Bridge

As you keep moving toward Tower Bridge, the view just really opens up. You will spot the Shard too; it is obviously hard to miss. The architecture along this section of the river shows how old and modern buildings can kind of stand together! Obviously, lots of chances for taking photos, really, against the growing skyline.

Something else: Near London Bridge Station you can find a spot called The View from The Shard. High, as a matter of fact. Worth a trip if you are seeking out some terrific overall views of London from a great height. Do look ahead to purchase tickets online; this just will ensure you don’t miss out on your preferred time slot. Actually, views can vary with the weather!

Arriving at Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge! You really, really made it! Reaching this well known, rather known, landmark can provide that feeling, kind of, of triumph. So, this bridge is, like, kind of, really beautiful, and the Victorian engineering is, like, you know, impressive. Do take your time, taking loads of pics, of course.

I am going to suggest the Tower Bridge Exhibition! Learn a great deal relating to the history of the bridge. View panoramic views out from the high-level walkways; with glass floors for viewing what is below. Okay then? You can also find the Victorian Engine Rooms! This allows you to view the machinery that actually lifts the bridge. You might be able to see a bridge lift in progress. So plan; so you can time this to be part of your visit, okay?

Also consider finding one of the various restaurants and cafes surrounding the Tower Bridge; okay then, for a celebratory meal or drink as you like. Overall there’s always a view as you wind down and people watch! Pretty neat!

Planning and Useful Advice

If you’re even just a little bit prepared then you will, arguably, get so much more out of this particular walk! Now then! Get yourself some very comfy footwear, yes? Some stretches of the riverside can, literally, be very exposed, actually! Especially the stretches without, literally, any shade! Bring water! And perhaps pop some sunscreen on too, if you like! Oh, and that wind down by the River Thames; it is so often much colder! Wrap up if you get, like, quite chilly, okay?

Really, any day, at, arguably, most times of year are pretty neat for this, in particular, the spring and autumn seasons with those fairly moderate temps, basically. In a way, if it’s practical, then try doing this specific stroll on a weekday; weekends might, naturally, attract loads more tourists, potentially creating issues.

In some ways this certain walk would suit those individuals that have all sorts of fitness levels. I mean, arguably, it can actually take around two to four hours! Just kinda depends on the speed and, definitely, just exactly how often you like to pause to stop and check stuff out and do photos. I suppose this trip may very well not necessarily be best-suited for those with reduced mobility. In these, for instance, situations I would certainly consider just seeing several parts of it at a time, instead.