Lunch experiences in London strike a perfect balance between sightseeing and satisfying meals. The city’s Thames River cruise-and-dine options are particularly worthwhile, combining British cuisine with front-row views of Tower Bridge and Parliament. Cultural walking tours paired with pub stops offer the best bang for your buck, letting you soak in history while sampling traditional fare. We especially love the East End food walks – they showcase London’s multicultural flavors through local markets and family-run eateries. For upscale experiences, the double-decker bus afternoon tea tours deliver both elegance and entertainment. On the lookout for the smartest lunch options in London? Check out these tested favorites.
Key Points
- Thames River Cruises offer unique dining experiences with panoramic views of London landmarks and an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 845 reviews.
- London River Thames Lunch Cruise provides a 2-course lunch in a 105-minute cruise, while the Christmas Party Lunch Cruise features a 3-course meal.
- Hard Rock Cafe in Piccadilly Circus serves classic American cuisine with a range of dining options, including a Gold Menu (2-course) and Diamond Menu (3-course).
- Guided day trips to Paris, Cotswolds, and iconic sites like Stonehenge and Windsor Castle provide immersive cultural and historical experiences.
- Luxury 4-course lunch experiences and unique themed cruises like the Sunday Lunch Jazz Cruise offer scenic and exclusive dining options in London.
Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip With Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower
For those seeking a luxurious and efficient way to experience the highlights of Paris, the Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower is a popular choice.
Priced from $401.02 per person, the tour departs from London’s St. Pancras International at 7:01 am and includes a panoramic coach tour, a scenic Seine River cruise, and visits to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe.
While the experience is non-refundable, it offers a Lowest Price Guarantee. Travelers should note the significant walking involved and the potential for changes to train schedules.
Reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and the tour’s overall organization, though some mention security issues and a rushed pace.
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Picadilly Circus: Hard Rock Cafe Set Menu Lunch or Dinner
At the iconic Hard Rock Cafe in the heart of Piccadilly Circus, visitors can indulge in a delightful set menu lunch or dinner experience.
Priced from ₹3,103 per person, diners can choose from the Gold Menu (2-course) or the Diamond Menu (3-course), both featuring classic American cuisine.
The menus offer a variety of options, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. Guests can also enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With priority seating, express security check, and wheelchair accessibility, the Hard Rock Cafe provides a memorable dining experience in a vibrant, rock-and-roll atmosphere decorated with authentic music memorabilia.
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Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus With Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
Visitors to the iconic Hard Rock Cafe in the heart of Piccadilly Circus can indulge in a delightful set menu lunch or dinner experience.
Priced from €36.65 per person, the cafe offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay-later reservations.
The 2-hour experience features priority seating, a selection of classic American dishes, and a unique rock and roll atmosphere.
Diners can choose from burgers, sandwiches, and pasta, along with child-friendly options.
The cafe is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller accommodations, and receives generally positive reviews for its service and ambiance, though opinions vary on the menu and pricing.
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London: Hard Rock Cafe With Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
Though located in the heart of bustling Piccadilly Circus, the Hard Rock Cafe London offers a respite from the city’s frenetic pace with its set menu lunch and dinner experiences.
Prices start from $35.05 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Diners can choose between the Gold Menu (2-course) or Diamond Menu (3-course), with options like the Original Legendary burger, vegan Moving Mountains burger, and Grilled chicken caesar salad.
Skip-the-line access ensures faster seating, while overall customer feedback points to high satisfaction with the service, meal quality, and efficient organization.
Whether seeking an American-inspired meal or a rock-themed dining experience, the Hard Rock Cafe London provides a well-rounded offering.
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London Vintage Bus Tour Including River Thames Cruise With Optional Lunch
For those looking to explore London’s iconic landmarks in an immersive and time-efficient manner, the London Vintage Bus Tour Including River Thames Cruise with Optional Lunch offers a compelling experience.
Priced at $63.59 per person, the tour provides a Lowest Price Guarantee and flexible cancellation policy. Aboard a vintage double-decker bus, guests can admire Big Ben, Tower of London, and other major sights, with an optional fish and chips or vegetarian lunch at a local pub.
With a maximum group size of 40, the tour offers a mix of guided commentary, photo opportunities, and a scenic cruise on the River Thames.
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, though some note issues with audio quality and limited photo chances during the cruise.
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London River Thames Lunch Cruise
Setting sail along the iconic River Thames, the London River Thames Lunch Cruise offers an unforgettable dining experience amidst London’s stunning skyline.
The 105-minute cruise showcases the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Guests can savor a delectable 2-course lunch featuring roasted chicken and lemon meringue tart, accompanied by tea or coffee.
With its panoramic windows, the newly refurbished vessel provides unparalleled views. Priced from $44.63 per person, the cruise is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
Boasting an impressive 4.5/5 rating from over 1,600 reviews, this lunch cruise promises an exceptional experience for visitors to London.
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Cotswolds Tour From London With 2 Course Lunch
Priced at €121.66 per person, the Cotswolds Tour from London with 2-Course Lunch promises an immersive day exploring the quintessential English countryside.
With a Lowest Price Guarantee and flexible booking options, the tour offers convenience. During the 10-hour trip, visitors can admire picturesque villages, though the lunch experience has received mixed reviews.
Knowledgeable guides like Ava and Toby provide engaging commentary, while skilled drivers navigate the routes. Highlights include the charming town of Burford and the picturesque Arlington Row.
While the optional lunch may disappoint, the overall tour allows ample time for independent exploration of the Cotswolds’ natural beauty and quaint shops.
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London: Christmas Party Lunch Cruise
Promising a festive celebration on the River Thames, the London: Christmas Party Lunch Cruise invites visitors to embrace the yuletide spirit.
With tickets costing from $89.25 per person, the 3-hour experience includes a traditional 3-course festive meal, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, and live music from a vocalist.
Guests will enjoy panoramic views of iconic London landmarks like the Tower of London, London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
Seated at tables of 10, the event caters to an adult-only crowd and features a smart-casual/festive dress code.
With free cancellation up to 3 days in advance and an overall rating of 4.6/5, this cruise promises an unforgettable Christmas celebration on the River Thames.
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Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath With Pub Lunch in Lacock
This full-day tour from London provides visitors with the opportunity to explore three of England’s most iconic destinations: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and the historic city of Bath.
Starting at $128.48 per person, the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can expect air-conditioned coach transportation, a walking tour of Windsor Castle, and a traditional English pub lunch in Lacock village.
While the tour covers a lot of ground, some travelers found the pace to be rushed, particularly at Windsor Castle. The weather also impacted the Stonehenge experience, with limited accessibility due to rain.
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London: Hard Rock Walking Tour With Optional Lunch
Explore the heart of London’s rock music heritage with the Hard Rock Walking Tour.
This 1.5-3 hour guided walk takes you to iconic locations associated with legendary bands and artists, including The Beatles, David Bowie, and Keith Moon.
Led by expert Rock Guides, you’ll visit The Vault – London’s only rock ‘n’ roll museum.
Along the way, you can opt for a 2-course lunch at the world’s first Hard Rock Cafe, featuring classic favorites like the Legendary® Burger.
With personal audio headsets for live commentary and the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers an engaging and hassle-free experience for rock music enthusiasts.
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Lunch River Cruise on the Thames With 2-Course Meal
For a unique dining experience with panoramic views of London’s iconic landmarks, the Lunch River Cruise on the Thames offers a delightful 2-course meal aboard a charming boat.
The cruise routes from Tower Pier to Westminster, showcasing riverside attractions like the Tower of London and London Eye. Customers praise the excellent food quality and variety, though some note dietary needs weren’t adequately met.
The cozy indoor saloon provides stunning views through large windows, and the rooftop seating offers an even better vantage point.
While customer service has been mixed, with complaints about inflexibility, the cruise maintains an overall rating of 4.5/5 stars across 845 reviews, making it a scenic and enjoyable lunch experience.
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London: Street Art and Graffiti Tour With Lunch
The London: Street Art and Graffiti Tour with Lunch provides an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the vibrant Shoreditch neighborhood to discover the hidden stories behind the area’s renowned street art and graffiti.
Led by a live English-speaking guide, the 3-hour tour includes 105 minutes of sightseeing and photo stops, followed by an all-inclusive lunch at the award-winning Brick-Lane Brasserie.
Participants can expect to gain insights into the work of over 40 different artists and the deeper meanings behind their creations.
The tour is fully wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While customer reviews are mixed, it’s recommended for first-time visitors seeking a unique London experience.
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Luxury 4 Course Lunch Experience by Coach
Although the price tag may seem steep, the Luxury 4 Course Lunch Experience by Coach offers an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in a gourmet meal while taking in London’s iconic sights.
Priced at $90.85 per person, the experience includes a 4-course menu and a scenic tour past highlights like the Tower of London and Piccadilly Circus. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later.
With a maximum capacity of 38 travelers, the double-decker bus features cooking facilities, ensuring a unique dining experience.
Wheelchair-accessible and with positive reviews, this lunch tour is a great way to savor London’s flavors and views.
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From London: Paris Day Trip With Eiffel Tower & Lunch Cruise
Travelers embarking on a From London: Paris Day Trip With Eiffel Tower & Lunch Cruise can expect a full-day guided tour that transports them to the iconic city of Paris.
The tour costs from $490.89 per person and includes a Eurostar journey, Eiffel Tower visit, and a Seine lunch cruise.
The itinerary starts at 6:00 AM from London, with the Eurostar departing between 7:01 AM and 6:18 AM, depending on the day.
Highlights include panoramic views from the Eiffel Tower’s 2nd floor and a 2-hour lunch cruise on the Seine.
While the tour boasts overall positive reviews, some guests have noted insufficient time to explore and the presence of pickpockets near attractions.
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Downtown Abbey Village in The Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace & Lunch
Setting out on a journey beyond the bustling streets of London, this full-day tour takes visitors to the enchanting Cotswolds region and the grand Blenheim Palace.
Highlights include exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Blenheim Palace, strolling through quaint villages like Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, and discovering filming locations from the popular Downton Abbey series.
The tour provides a two-course pub lunch, allowing travelers to savor local flavors.
With a maximum of 53 participants, the experience offers a personal touch.
Customers praise the tour’s scenic beauty and cultural insights, though some suggest improvements in tour organization and timing.
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From London: Paris Tour With Lunch Cruise & Sightseeing Tour
Whisked away from the bustling streets of London, travelers can embark on a captivating journey across the English Channel to the heart of Paris.
This full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience, including Eurostar train transfers, a guided tour of the city’s landmarks, and a delectable Seine River lunch cruise. Guests can admire the iconic Eiffel Tower, stroll along the Champs-Élysées, and explore the charming neighborhood of Montmartre.
With an English-speaking guide, roundtrip train tickets, and a 3-course French meal, this tour provides an immersive and convenient way to discover the best of Paris in a single day.
However, note the non-refundable cancellation policy and early morning check-in time.
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Windsor Castle Tour From London With Lunch Option
Exploring the historic grandeur of Windsor Castle awaits visitors on this day trip from London. Priced at €114.29 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options.
Travelers can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, mobile ticketing, and inclusion of castle entry, a pub lunch, professional guide, and transportation.
The tour has received exceptional reviews, with knowledgeable guides like Alan and Magnus providing educational insights. However, some logistical issues, such as meeting point confusion and inconsistent communication, have been reported.
Accessibility concerns have also been noted, particularly for seniors with mobility challenges.
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London: Sunday Lunch Jazz Cruise
A Sunday afternoon jazz cruise along the River Thames offers a unique dining experience in London. Guests can enjoy a delicious two-course lunch menu while listening to live jazz music as they float past the city’s iconic landmarks.
The cruise lasts approximately two and a half hours, providing ample time to savor the meal and soak in the views. Diners can choose from a selection of starters, mains, and desserts, all prepared fresh onboard.
The live jazz band performs throughout the journey, creating a lively and sophisticated atmosphere. This is an ideal activity for those seeking a relaxing and memorable Sunday afternoon in the capital.
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Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane With Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
Guests can enjoy a 2- or 3-course American-style meal at the original Hard Rock Cafe London located on Old Park Lane.
The set menu offers diverse options catering to various tastes, with an emphasis on American cuisine with local twists. Reservations are recommended due to the cafe’s popularity.
Visitors can admire the historic rock memorabilia, including notable items like Eric Clapton’s guitar, and access the Vault, London’s only rock n roll museum.
The cafe offers instant mobile ticketing, skip-the-line reservation, and a family-friendly environment.
Prices start at $37.04 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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London: Full-Day English Wine Tour With Lunch
Travelers frequently embark on this full-day English wine tour to explore the scenic English countryside and sample award-winning local vintages.
Priced at €181.22 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, visits to three vineyards, tasting fees, a traditional pub lunch with a glass of wine, and an expert English guide.
Highlights include guided tours, the opportunity to purchase wine, and stunning views of quintessential English villages.
With a 4.6/5 rating, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide, excellent transportation, and good value.
Free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option make this experience an appealing choice for a day of wine tasting and lunch in London.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Vegetarian Menu Option Available?
Many restaurants offer vegetarian menu options to cater to those with specialized dietary needs. Diners should check the restaurant’s menu or contact them directly to inquire about the availability of vegetarian dishes.
Can I Request a Specific Dietary Requirement?
Yes, you can request specific dietary requirements at most restaurants. Many establishments are happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other needs with advance notice. Be sure to inform the staff of your requirements when making a reservation or placing your order.
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experience?
The dress code for most lunch experiences is generally casual and comfortable. While some upscale restaurants may have a slightly more formal dress code, diners are typically expected to wear smart casual attire that’s neat and presentable.
Is There a Discount for Booking the Lunch in Advance?
Many restaurants offer discounts for booking lunch in advance. Customers can often save a few pounds by reserving their table ahead of time. This can be a useful way to get the best deal on a midday meal.
Can I Add Additional Activities to the Lunch Experience?
Yes, you can often add additional activities to a lunch experience. Many providers offer packages that include tours, museum visits, or other experiences to complement the meal. Be sure to inquire about available options when booking.
The Sum Up
The best lunch experiences in London offer a diverse range of options, from guided luxury day trips to Eiffel Tower dining, and from river cruises with jazz to English wine tours. Whether you’re seeking a set menu at a Hard Rock Cafe or a Sunday lunch jazz cruise, London provides an array of memorable midday meals to suit various tastes and budgets.