Christmas along the River Thames 2022

Christmas along the River Thames 2022

Christmas is one of the most magical times to be in London. From dazzling lights twinkling nonstop to wonderful Christmas markets and ice-skating rinks in the most fascinating locations, why not combine these Christmassy activities with a river cruise along the Thames?

Here’s our pick of must-do activities in the capital along our route on the River Thames during this festive season.

Ice Skating

Get your skates on and enjoy this classic winter activity with your friends and family in the most iconic ice rinks in London.

Just next to Embankment Pier, you will find this magnificent ice rink located in the neoclassical courtyard of the majestic Somerset House. Now with a bigger skate space of 900-square-metres and a splendid 40ft Christmas tree, this ice rink also offers festive drinking and dining experiences and night-time music events featured by UNIQLO.

If you get off at Greenwich Pier, located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and surrounded by Greenwich Park, The Queen´s House is a picture-perfect ice rink with stunning views of the Old Royal Naval College and Canary Wharf in the background.

Christmas Markets

Located in the loveliest riverside spots, you will find two of the prettiest Christmas markets in London with their traditional wooden chalets with festive classics such as mulled wine, hot chocolate and other delicious festive treats as well as plenty of gift ideas.

Just by Festival Pier, like every year, the wonderful Winter Market at Southbank Centre is back. A little bit further down, near Bankside Pier, you will find Christmas by the River, a Christmas market with the most spectacular views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

London´s attractions

Everything is better at Christmas, and for London´s most famous attractions this is not an exception.

Hop off at Tower Bridge Quay and visit the Tower of London transformed with magical festive displays across the fortress, or cruise down to Greenwich to see the Cutty Sark´s rigging lit up with twinkling lights in the shape of a Christmas tree.