River Thames at London by Eleanor Blundell
River Thames at London
The River Thames runs through the heart of London and is one of the city’s most defining features. It enters Greater London at Teddington Lock and flows eastward through central London before reaching the Thames Estuary. Along its course through the capital, the Thames provides both a physical and cultural spine, passing many of London’s most famous landmarks.
Key locations along the river include the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben at Westminster, the London Eye on the South Bank, St Paul’s Cathedral near Blackfriars, and the Tower of London and Tower Bridge further east. The river also flows past newer landmarks such as The Shard, the Millennium Bridge, and the Thames Barrier near Woolwich.
Historically, the Thames was vital for trade and transport. The Port of London was once one of the busiest in the world, with docks and wharves lining both banks. Though commercial shipping in central London has declined, the river is still used for passenger services, sightseeing boats, and the Thames Clippers commuter service.
The Thames is spanned by numerous bridges in London, including famous ones like Westminster Bridge, Waterloo Bridge, London Bridge, and Tower Bridge. Each has its own architectural style and history. The river also features several tunnels, including the historic Thames Tunnel (the first under a navigable river), now used by the London Overground.
Parks and footpaths line much of the riverbank, offering scenic walks and cycle routes. The Thames Path National Trail follows the river through the city, providing access to both bustling urban areas and quieter, green stretches.
Despite its urban setting, the Thames in London supports a surprising amount of wildlife. Seals, cormorants, and even occasional porpoises have been spotted, and conservation efforts have improved water quality significantly in recent decades.
The River Thames in London is more than a waterway—it’s a central thread in the city’s geography, history, and daily life.
Created: 31 March 2021 Edited: 21 April 2025
