London Thames

London Thames

15 April, 2009
by: Spoonfed Team

There is perhaps no natural landmark in all of Britain that is as recognisable as the River Thames. Though associated most with the city of London, a large portion of the Thames runs through other towns in the south, including Oxford, Windsor, Reading, and the concrete utopia known as Slough. The river has played an important part in the development of London, and many of the city’s icons are situation along its banks, including Big Ben, the London Eye at South Bank and the 02 Arena. 

Having recognised the strategic importance of the Thames, Roman emperor Claudius had fortifications built along the banks of the river, thus creating what became known as Londinium. Though the river proved instrumental in London’s development into an important trading post and commercial centre, it also acted as a dangerous Achilles’ Heal for London’s defences. As such, the city has seen numerous invasions of unwanted foreign hordes throughout its history, including the Vikings in 870AD, the Dutch Navy in 1667 and Michael Jackson in 1995.

Today, tourists are of course encouraged to embark on a cruise down the Thames, provided they are willing to pay for a ticket, and there are loads of delights around the river to suit all tastes. Millennium Bridge offers pedestrians a unique 360degree view of London, while London Tower Bridge houses an exhibition space that outlines the history of the bridge. Near London Bridge, the HMS Belfast acts as a floating Royal Navy museum, and further along the river, the largest seafood market in the UK, Billingsgate Market, can be found.

So whether you’re enjoying a pint at a riverside pub, walking along London Bridge, or simply observing Royal Navy boats in a high-speed pursuit of terror suspects, no visit to London is complete without taking in the sights of our humble little River Thames.

London Thames Venues:

O2 Arena
To some it’s eyesore, to others it’s a…well, an eyesore with good acoustics. Upcoming events include the Body Worlds exhibit and Michael Jackson’s upcoming final (hopefully) shows.

London Eye
Sure it’s essentially an oversized Ferris wheel, but the London Eye presents a glorious view of London that should be taken in at least once by everyone in the city.

London Aquarium
Something different for a date or family day out; situated below the London Eye and overlooking the Thames, the Aquarium is well worth a visit.

Tate Modern
The Tate, situated near beautiful Southbank, is full of wonderful art and some frustratingly awful pieces that are apparently art. Though most of the collection can be viewed for free, there are also paid exhibitions, and a boat ride along the Thames to the Tate Britain at Pimlico.

Tower of London
If the tales of beheadings, prison breaks, crown jewels, and guided beefeater tours weren’t enough to convince you, the tower also presents great views of London City Hall and Tower Bridge.

The Ship Inn
Despite its peculiar location aside a cement factory, and beautiful views of a Curry’s franchise, The Ship Inn near Wandsworth Town rail is a great pub to enjoy summer pints (or Pimms) and BBQ on their riverside deck. Be sure to check out live music on Sundays.

Keen for more? See more about:

London South Bank
London Bridge
London Events

Spoonfed Team