Christmas events along River Thames

Christmas is a great time of year to visit London, whether you’re shopping or sightseeing or both. As long as you’re wrapped up warm, it doesn’t matter how chilly it is (although according to the longer-term weather forecast for the rest of November and December it’ll be mild), and there are a lot of outdoor events and activities designed to get us in the spirit of the season.

If you’re planning to include a boat trip on the River Thames as part of your London visit, why not combine it with the numerous Christmas events along the banks?

View our River Thames cruise timetable and our latest sightseeing boat trip offers.

London Christmas Markets

Hop off at the Festival Pier for the Southbank Centre’s Winter Market and Festival – a Christmas market with 50 chalets selling festive goodies until 8 January 2017. The perfect place to look for unusual gifts for friends and family whilst you treat yourself to mulled wine, hot food and nibbles, or go in search of a little Scandinavian ‘hygge’ in the Rekorderlig Winter Lodge.

If you’re bringing the kids, get them to try and spot all the gonks playing hide and seek around the Southbank Centre.

And if you fancy being more active, the whole family can enjoy the pop-up roller disco which, during the school holidays is open all day from 11am.

Ice skating near Tower of London

If, however, you think skating on ice is more in keeping with the season, hop off at Tower Bridge Quay for the Tower of London ice rink where the iconic London landmark will provide a spectacular backdrop for your winter activity (don’t forget your hat and gloves!).

When you’ve had enough of skating, swap the glittery lights of Christmas and visit the glittering Crown Jewels in the Tower itself, using the opportunity to check the ravens are still there and explore the White Tower. Circular Cruises offers a combination deal for a single or return ticket with reduced cost of entry to the Tower of London. All you have to do to book your package is click on the day you would like to visit, select the number of tickets you need and press Continue. You’ll then get the opportunity to add discounted Tower of London tickets to your order.

Enjoy the views from the River Thames

Alternatively, you can award yourself (and your feet!) a well-earned break from the Christmas shopping and activities. Spend an hour enjoying the view of the lights and bustle along the banks of the Thames as you relax inside and treat yourself to a warming drink whilst you enjoy the entertaining commentary that Circular Cruises has become so well known for.

Know which day you’re visiting London?

Alternatively, you can buy them at our ticket office on the day.