Thames Path London
Walk London's iconic river, discovering landmarks from Tower Bridge to historic Greenwich. A free, scenic journey through the heart of the city.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Thames Path London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk London's iconic river, discovering landmarks from Tower Bridge to historic Greenwich. A free, scenic journey through the heart of the city.
"The Thames Path is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to explore London's most famous sights."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The Thames Path is extensive; comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the walk.
📸 Best Tower Bridge Pics
Head to Shad Thames for unobstructed views and great photo opportunities of Tower Bridge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tower Bridge Views
Shad Thames
Capture iconic Tower Bridge photos from a less crowded vantage point.

South Bank Promenade
Vauxhall to Tower Bridge
A vibrant stretch with street performers, cultural venues, and great river views.

Greenwich Foot Tunnel
Greenwich
Walk beneath the Thames in this unique Victorian tunnel, connecting Greenwich to the Isle of Dogs.

Putney to Hammersmith
Putney
A peaceful, tree-lined section of the path offering a serene escape from the city bustle.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walk
Best Views & Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The Thames Path is extensive; comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the walk.
📸 Best Tower Bridge Pics
Head to Shad Thames for unobstructed views and great photo opportunities of Tower Bridge.
🚢 River Bus Views
Use the Uber Boat for a different perspective of the Thames and its landmarks.
📱 Contactless Payment
Use your contactless card or mobile pay for London transport, no Oyster card needed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The Thames Path is extensive; comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the walk.
📸 Best Tower Bridge Pics
Head to Shad Thames for unobstructed views and great photo opportunities of Tower Bridge.
🚢 River Bus Views
Use the Uber Boat for a different perspective of the Thames and its landmarks.
📱 Contactless Payment
Use your contactless card or mobile pay for London transport, no Oyster card needed.
🏖️ Explore Tidal Beaches
Discover unique 'beaches' revealed at low tide along the riverbanks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Thames Path for its incredible views of London's landmarks and its accessibility. It's praised as a fantastic, budget-friendly way to explore the city, offering a mix of iconic sights and tranquil riverside stretches. Some find certain central sections can be crowded, and the path isn't always continuous, requiring detours.
"Every morning I am cycling 18km . What a wonderful nature. I don't have words. I miss this amazing nature. Most of time I cut unwanted bushes. I enjoyed."
Desilva Chandra
"When it comes to navigating The Thames in the heart of London, you can either follow the river on the east side or as I did on the south. Starting points are a personal preference, but this particular walk I always start at Marble Arch and make my way through Hyde Park through Green Park, and St James Park and into Westminster, where I then cross Westminster Bridge and follow the Thames path to Greenwich. Please note that Westminster Bridge and some of the South Bank gets very crowded."
Daniel David
"Not much to tell about it, since quite a lot of us been, and seen, and walked through this path in London. It's quite long and offers beautiful sightseeing all kinds of... on the road ahead there is: London eye, restaurants, tower bridge, restaurants, coffee shops, and random people created attractions. From singers, to the jugglers etc. Highly recommend it!"
Mantvydas Ū.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Thames Path is accessible via numerous Tube stations and bus routes across London. For sections further out, like Putney, trains from Waterloo are convenient.
Many sections are also reachable by the Uber Boat, offering a scenic approach.Yes, central London sections are very accessible. From Vauxhall to Tower Bridge, you can walk along the South Bank without much deviation.
The Millennium Bridge area near Blackfriars is also a great starting point.Cycling is permitted on many sections of the Thames Path, but be mindful of pedestrians, especially in busy areas. Some parts may have restrictions.
Parking can be challenging in central London. It's often easier to use public transport. For sections further west, like near Hampton Court Palace, parking may be available.
For a unique experience and great views, consider the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers.
Alternatively, the Tube and buses are efficient for reaching different points along the path.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking the Thames Path itself is free.
However, attractions along the path, like the Tower Bridge Exhibition or Greenwich Foot Tunnel access points, may have entry fees.The Thames Path is a public right of way and is generally free to use.
Some specific access points or tunnels might have associated costs, but the path itself is open access.The Thames Path is accessible 24/7, though lighting can be limited in certain sections at night.
Specific attractions along the path will have their own operating hours.The London Pass typically covers entry to attractions, not public walkways like the Thames Path. However, it might offer discounts on river cruises or access to attractions located along the path.
The Thames Path is a continuous route with many access points. You can join it from various bridges, riverside parks, or nearby transport hubs.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Many find the stretch from Vauxhall to Tower Bridge particularly scenic with iconic landmarks.
The section near Putney offers a more tranquil, green experience. For unique views, explore the Nine Elms section.Generally, yes. Central London sections are well-lit and busy.
However, as with any urban environment, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas or at night.You'll find plenty of pubs, cafes, and restaurants along the path, especially in central London.
Public restrooms are also available at intervals, particularly in parks and near major attractions.The Thames Path is over 180 miles long, stretching from the source to the Thames Barrier.
Walking the entire route is a significant undertaking, often done in sections over multiple days.Besides the classic Tower Bridge views from Shad Thames,
consider the Oxo Tower for panoramic cityscapes and the Greenwich Foot Tunnel for unique underground shots.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The South Bank is packed with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining.
Borough Market offers a fantastic array of food stalls and artisanal products. Many pubs along the path also serve traditional British fare.Absolutely! Borough Market is a great spot for affordable and delicious street food.
Many pubs offer reasonably priced meals, and there are numerous cafes and sandwich shops.Yes, there are many green spaces and benches along the Thames Path perfect for picnics. Enjoying a packed lunch with a river view is a popular and budget-friendly option.
Yes, several restaurants and bars offer stunning Thameside views. The Oxo Tower is famous for its panoramic vistas.
Many establishments along the South Bank provide excellent riverside dining experiences.You'll find a wide variety, from traditional British pubs to international cuisine, reflecting London's diverse culinary scene.
Borough Market is a melting pot of global flavors.📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds.
The 'golden hour' before sunset provides a warm glow over the city.For unobstructed views, head to Shad Thames and find the elevated stairs.
The South Bank also offers classic perspectives, especially from near City Hall.The Greenwich Foot Tunnel offers a surreal, underground perspective.
Exploring the 'tidal beaches' at low tide can also yield interesting shots.A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide cityscapes and details.
A wide-angle lens is great for architecture. Consider a tripod for low-light shots.Visit popular spots like Tower Bridge early in the morning or on weekdays.
Explore less-known sections of the path for quieter scenes.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider incorporating visits to attractions along the path, such as the Tower Bridge Exhibition or the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, which can be exciting for kids. The Uber Boat is also a fun mode of transport that children often enjoy. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and plan for breaks at playgrounds or cafes to make the day enjoyable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider downloading offline maps or a navigation app to help you stay on track. The path offers endless opportunities for people-watching and soaking in the city's atmosphere. Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or fellow walkers – you might discover hidden gems!
🏃♀️ Runners
For a more peaceful run, explore sections further west, like the Putney to Hammersmith stretch, which is greener and less congested. The path is generally well-maintained, though some surfaces can be uneven. Always be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Thames Path
Sections like the South Bank (from Vauxhall to Tower Bridge) are popular for their cultural attractions and bustling atmosphere. For a more tranquil experience, consider the western sections near Putney or the historic charm of Greenwich. Planning your route based on your interests and available time is key to making the most of your walk.
Key takeaway: The Thames Path is highly accessible, with numerous Tube and train stations providing entry points. Using contactless payment for public transport simplifies travel. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking!
Capturing London's Icons
Beyond Tower Bridge, the path provides excellent vantage points for the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Shard. The South Bank, in particular, is a hub for iconic photography, with opportunities to capture street art, performers, and the ever-changing riverfront. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for dramatic lighting or early morning to avoid crowds and capture a serene cityscape.
For a truly unique photographic experience, don't miss the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, offering an unusual perspective from beneath the river. The ebb and flow of the tide also create fascinating 'tidal beaches' that can add an artistic element to your photos.
Budget-Friendly Exploration
Instead of expensive tours, consider using the Uber Boat for a scenic and affordable way to travel along the river, offering unique perspectives of landmarks. For meals, Borough Market is a treasure trove of delicious and reasonably priced street food. Alternatively, many traditional pubs along the path offer hearty meals at good value.
Utilizing contactless payment for public transport eliminates the need for an Oyster card, saving you money and hassle. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river for an even more economical dining experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit