LONDON
Thames Walk to Tower of London
A riverside walk from the London Eye to the Tower of London, including a crossing of Tower Bridge.
OVERVIEW
Explore the Thames Walk to Tower of London
This route follows the Thames from the London Eye to the Tower of London, connecting several of London’s main landmarks along one continuous walk. It ends by crossing Tower Bridge before arriving at the Tower of London.
Follow the river path to move easily between stops without needing transport.
THE ROUTE
Follow the Thames to Tower of London
A continuous walk along the Thames from the London Eye to the Tower of London, connecting London’s major landmarks along the way.
London Eye → Southbank Centre
THE WALK
Start at the London Eye on the South Bank.
Walk along the river with views back toward Big Ben and Westminster.
Continue toward Southbank Centre, passing performers and riverside spots.
THE EXPERIENCE
From the London Eye, you get wide views back toward Westminster as you join the South Bank. This stretch feels lively right away, with performers, cafés, and people gathered along the river.
Southbank Centre → Millenium Bridge
THE WALK
Walk past the Southbank Centre and National Theatre.
Continue along the river toward Millennium Bridge.
Walk partway onto the bridge for one of the best views of St Paul’s.
optional extension
- From the Millennium Bridge, cross the river to reach St Paul’s Cathedral. After visiting, return across the bridge to continue the walk toward Borough Market.
THE EXPERIENCE
As you continue along the South Bank, the walk settles into a steady riverside stretch. Near the Millennium Bridge, you get one of the best views of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Millenium Bridge → Borough Market
THE WALK
From Millennium Bridge, join the South Bank path and continue east along the river.
Pass Shakespeare’s Globe as you follow the riverside.
Continue as the path narrows and briefly moves inland near The Anchor Bankside.
Follow the route past the Clink Prison Museum before turning slightly inland.
The walk leads directly into Borough Market.
Stop for lunch or a quick bite.
THE EXPERIENCE
The walk leaves the open riverfront near The Anchor and moves into the historic streets around Clink Street, with the Shard visible above, before opening into the busy food stalls at Borough Market.
Borough Market → Tower Bridge
THE WALK
Leave Borough Market and head back toward the river.
Continue east along the Thames, passing London Bridge.
Follow the riverside path as the route becomes quieter and more open.
Tower Bridge comes into full view ahead.
THE experience
After the crowds of Borough Market, the walk opens into a quieter stretch along the river, with Tower Bridge gradually coming into view ahead.
Tower Bridge → Tower of London
THE WALK
Walk across Tower Bridge for views along the Thames in both directions.
Continue to the north side of the river.
Follow signs toward the Tower of London.
optional evening
- Stay near Tower Bridge to see it lit up after dark.
- Walk along the river nearby for night views of the skyline.
End the day with dinner or drinks along the Thames, or head to The Shard if you have reservations.
THE experience
Crossing Tower Bridge is one of the highlights of the walk, with wide views along the river before arriving at the Tower of London.
experience
Along the Route
A closer look at each stop along the Royal London route.
One of London’s most recognizable landmarks, the London Eye marks the start of the walk with wide views across the Thames and back toward Westminster.
A modern pedestrian bridge offering one of the best views of St Paul’s Cathedral across the river.
A historic cathedral known for its large dome, visible across the river from the Millennium Bridge.
A reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre, offering a glimpse into London’s theatrical history along the river.
One of London’s best-known food markets, with a mix of local and international stalls perfect for a stop along the walk.
The tallest building in London, rising above the area near Borough Market and visible from much of the route.
A Victorian bascule bridge with twin towers, where the roadway lifts to let ships pass.
A historic fortress on the north side of the Thames, marking the end of the walk after crossing Tower Bridge.
plan your visit
Plan Your Thames Walk to Tower of London
How to make the most of the walk, from timing your start to planning stops along the way.
Best Time to Start
Start near the London Eye in the morning for fewer crowds and a more relaxed walk along the South Bank, especially before the busiest midday hours.
Timing the Route
The full walk to the Tower of London takes around 2–3 hours at a steady pace, but plan extra time if you stop at Borough Market or visit places like St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, or the Tower of London.
Getting Around
The route follows the South Bank and is easy to walk, with nearby Underground stations including Waterloo, London Bridge, and Tower Hill if you need to shorten the walk.
What to Know
The South Bank is busiest near the London Eye and Borough Market, but becomes quieter as you continue east, with more open stretches along the river.
BUILD YOUR ITINERARY
How This Fits Into Your Day
Start near the London Eye and follow the Thames east along the South Bank toward Tower Bridge, passing several of London’s main landmarks along the way.
This route works well as a half-day walk, with time to stop for coffee, explore along the river, and take a break at Borough Market before crossing Tower Bridge to the Tower of London.