Illuminated River Tour: London's Nighttime Art

Explore London’s iconic bridges aglow on a night river tour. Discover history, architecture, and stunning views. Book your unforgettable journey today.

Duration: 40 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Thames River - Enjoy a 40-minute boat tour along the Thames, led by an expert guide.
What's Included
  • Expert-guided 40-minute boat tour along the Thames
  • Step-free & wheelchair-accessible boarding
  • Live Guide: Live commentary from City of London & Westminster Guides
  • Unparalleled views of London’s Illuminated River installation
What's Not Included
  • Food & drinks (available for purchase on board)
  • Pick-Up and Hotel transfers in not included – please make your way to the Tower Pier
Additional Information

Embark on the Illuminated River Official Boat Tour, an unforgettable experience highlighting London’s breathtaking riverside transformation.
As evening descends, marvel at nine iconic bridges illuminated with vibrant LED displays, creating the world’s longest public art installation.
Guided by knowledgeable City of London and Westminster Guides, discover…

Location
Tower Millennium Pier
Lower Thames Street
Location: Tours depart and return to Tower Pier, Lower Thames Street, London EC3N 4DT Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure (Boarding Point D, Tower Pier) Present your printed or e-ticket to member of staff The ticket is valid only for the selected date.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
3.2
(6 Ratings)
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1 star
Konstantinoss941
Oct 6, 2025
Great trip, thank you Emma!!! - Amazing trip and Emma made all the difference with her attitude and willingness to help us have a great trip!!! We truly enjoyed it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ozthedude
Oct 6, 2025
Excellent service - Excellent service from start to finish. Emma was friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. We had a lovely trip. Thank you.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
824emmak
Oct 11, 2025
Started late but worth the wait - Unfortunately despite being advised to arrive at 9.15pm it was 9.40 before we set off, leaving a long time stood queuing. They use an external party to do the commentary and I think she was a bit cross as she had to rush the start to catch up as we’d already reached the first bridge. That said, the tour was informative and contained useful and sometimes humorous facts about London bridges and architecture. An enjoyable way to spend an evening viewing the beautiful bridges illuminated as part of this interesting project.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Carol_a
May 11, 2025
Not an open-air boat so... - Not an open-air boat so views and photo shots are limited and impeded by the ceilings/eaves. Narration was good but hard to discern unless you sit inside. Windows were dirty so couldn’t take photos from inside. Would suggest using an open-air boat with seats on top to maximize photo opportunities. Also, better audio to hear narrator.
Review provided by Viator
161gerbenk
Sep 6, 2025
Close to a scam. - This close to a scam! A general taxi-boat used for a special trip. Seats are facing in the wrong direction. Unable to have a view without neck insury. Bad soundsystem so the guide is a blur. So much lights pointing inwards that taking pictures of London by night is impossible. You won't see anything that cannot be seen from the riverbanks. Add to this the constant smell of petrol gasses and the experience is complete.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Meghan_m
Apr 13, 2025
This has the potential to... - This has the potential to be awesome but it is poorly executed. When you arrive at the pier, there are 0 signs about the tour or any information even regarding it. Unless you are one of the first 10–15 people on the boat, you don’t get to enjoy the views outside. The lights inside remained on for the length of the tour so even if you wanted to take a picture, you wouldn’t be able to. The man providing the information about the illumination project has zero personality. I was very excited about seeing the city at night from the river but was disappointed.
Review provided by Viator
From $19
up to 9 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).