River Thames Bike Tour

Duration: Approximately 5 hours Make a Reservation Back to Tours

Brief Description

Fat Tire Bike Tours of London now provides an active, educational and entertaining way to experience an amazing side of London. This tour is completely different from our Royal London Bike Tour. Our smaller groups allow us to journey along both sides of the Thames, explore the Southbank, and enjoy a return trip on a Thames Clipper river boat. See more. Less effort. More fun. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.

Important Additional Information

This tour is more "advanced" in terms of cycling than our Royal London Bike Tour. While it is not overly difficult or strenuous, if the rider is not comfortable on bicycle, please consider our daily Royal London Bike Tour. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather (gloves are strongly encouraged in cold weather). All riders must be at least 5 feet tall. As well, luggage storage will not be possible. Please download the printable directions here for more detailed directions. There are two possible exits from the Waterloo Underground, and the PDF details how you can find us. We’ll be across the street from Exit 2 holding a sign and wearing a Fat Tire t-shirt.

Tour Highlights

• 
  The London Eye

  One of the most recognizable structures in the world. On a clear day from the London Eye you’ll be able to see 25 miles. On all of our bike tours, you will learn some of the stories behind the landmarks. With experienced guides, combined with our ability to blend history, anecdotes, and humour, leave it to us to make sightseeing and learning fun!

• 
  St. Paul's Cathedral

  The newest St. Paul’s is the masterpiece of Sir Christopher Wren. The ground upon which it is built has been considered sacred for thousands of years. In more modern times, this is where the world mourned the loss of Sir Winston Churchill and celebrated the fairytale wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

• 
  Shakespeare’s Globe

  Have you ever used the expressions: to kill with kindness, one fell swoop, or dead as a doornail? Those and hundreds of other expressions and words are attributed to one of the greatest Brits that ever lived. In the shadows of the historically accurate recreation of the Globe Theatre, learn a bit more about William Shakespeare and his impact on our 21st century lives.

• 
  Borough Market

  A “must do” in any guide book and worth its suggested retail price, the Borough Market represents the culinary side of London, bringing in the best from the East and the West. This stop will not disappoint. We’ll break for about an hour, giving you time to explore on your own, grab a snack from any number of hot food vendors, and still enjoy a pint at a local English pub with your guide.

• 
  Tower Bridge

  One of the most recognizable bridges in the world, Tower Bridge was built nearly 60 years into the reign of Queen Victoria, and during the height of the British Empire. You will have the opportunity to take photos at its most spectacular vantage point: looking across to the Bridge and the Tower of London.

• 
  The Tower of London

  Originally built by William the Conqueror, this World Heritage site has been used as a royal residence, prison, observatory, treasury, mint, and even a zoo. The top of the list of recognizable prisoners includes: Thomas More, Sir Walter Raleigh, Guy Fawkes, and Anne Boleyn. While it likely deserves a full day to experience, you’ll get a taste of the Tower with us on this tour.

• 
  Trafalgar Square

  Trafalgar Square is home to the National Portrait Gallery and Lord Nelson's Column. Lord Nelson was commanding the British fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar when he was killed by a French sniper. Today the square also hosts events, public gatherings, ceremonies, and festivals. It is against the law to feed the pigeons here.

• 
  Covent Garden

  Originally this plot of land was a garden for a convent in the area. Today however, it is an exciting blend of restaurants, shopping, pubs, nightclubs, and the only area in London for licensed street entertainment to take place.

• 
  Thames Clipper Boat Ride

  You’ll enjoy only cycling one way, as we cruise back into Central London in style on a Thames Clipper. Take in the sites we’ve already seen plus many more while cruising back one of the newest fleets on the Thames.

• 
  Also See…

  the River Thames, the Tate Modern, London Bridge, Southwark Cathedral, the HMS Belfast, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben.

Tempted with our Royal London Tour?

Our Royal London Tour, in partnership with the Royal Parks, is a completely different side of London. While it is not possible to do both bike tours in one day, with your confirmation email from your Southbank Tour, you are entitled to 5 GBP off our Royal London Tour. After booking either tour, you’ll receive a confirmation e-mail with a coupon code to use when you book your second tour (the coupon code will be valid for 12 months). As well, you can simply turn up with your confirmation e-mail for the Royal London Bike Tours (reservations not required) and join a completely different cycle for a 5 GBP discount per person.