Schools
See London’s history from the river
Give your students a different perspective on London with a 40-minute journey along the Thames aboard the Official Tower of London River TourDeparting from Tower Bridge Quay, just moments from the Tower of London, the tour combines views of more than 20 famous London landmarks with live storytelling that brings the people, places and events of the capital’s past to life.
It’s an engaging and memorable addition to a London school trip, whether you’re planning a history-focused educational visit, combining it with the Tower of London or looking for an activity that allows students to see and understand more of the city.
Enquire about our special school rates for groups of 10 of more
Why choose the Tower of London River Tour for a school trip?
The River Thames has played a central role in London’s development for centuries. Seeing the city from the water gives students an opportunity to understand how many of its most important historic places are connected, both geographically and through the stories that shaped them.
During the 40-minute circular tour, students can see more than 20 London landmarks including Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
Rather than simply travelling between attractions, the journey itself becomes part of the experience.
History brought to life
Our expert guides use live storytelling to introduce some of the people, places and events associated with the London students can see around them.
Stories have been curated by Historic Royal Palaces and written by a co-creator of BBC’s Ghosts, creating an entertaining introduction to London’s history that can spark questions and discussion before, during and after the visit.
Understand London from a different perspective
From royal power and trade to transport and the growth of the modern city, the Thames has helped shape London.
Viewing the capital from the river allows students to see the relationship between historic and modern London for themselves, connecting familiar landmarks to their location and wider surroundings.
See more during your London school trip
With more than 20 landmarks visible during a 40-minute circular tour, the River Tour gives school groups an opportunity to see a significant stretch of central London within a relatively short period.
The tour departs from and returns to Tower Bridge Quay, making it particularly easy to combine with a visit to the Tower of London and other attractions in the surrounding area
A break from exploring London on foot
School trips can mean a lot of walking. The River Tour gives students and teachers an opportunity to sit down and enjoy the city while remaining part of the day’s learning and sightseeing.
Silver Raven has comfortable indoor seating, covered decks and open-air viewing areas, helping groups enjoy the experience whatever the London weather has in store.
What can students see on the River Tour?
The route passes more than 20 London landmarks and places of interest, including:
- Tower of London and Tower Bridge
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- Shakespeare’s Globe
- Tate Modern
- London Eye
- Big Ben
- Houses of Parliament
- Traitors’ Gate
The combination of historic and contemporary landmarks provides plenty of opportunities for observation, discussion and photography during the journey.
Combine your River Tour with the Tower of London
The River Tour can be incorporated into a wider educational visit to this historic part of London, including a visit to the Tower of London.
If visiting the Tower of London before your River Tour, please allow at least three hours for your Tower visit and arrive at Tower Bridge Quay at least 15 minutes before your River Tour departure.
