London Package: Royal Bike Tour with River Thames Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to see London that combines active exploration with a touch of relaxation, the Royal Bike Tour with a Thames River Cruise offered by Fat Tire Tours might be just the ticket. This 4-hour adventure promises a lively ride through some of London’s most famous landmarks, topped off with a peaceful cruise along the Thames.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the chance to cycle past Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey while hearing stories from a local guide adds layers of context and personality that you won’t get from a bus or a book. Second, the inclusion of a 24-hour river cruise ticket means you can enjoy an undisturbed view of the city’s riverside sights afterward at your own pace.

One potential consideration is the duration and pace—while 4 hours is manageable for most, the tour operates rain or shine, so you’ll want to dress weather-appropriate. Also, since this involves cycling through busy London streets, some comfort with city biking is helpful.

This tour suits active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and physical activity, families looking for a fun and engaging way to explore, or anyone wanting a more intimate view of London’s highlights from both land and water.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Tour

2 Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

3 FAQs

4 Final Words

Key Points

Active sightseeing: Combines cycling with exploring London’s major landmarks.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides share stories that bring the city’s history to life.
Flexible cruise: A 24-hour Thames river cruise ticket allows you to enjoy the river views at your convenience.
Authentic experience: Visit iconic sites like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Hyde Park, with minimal time wasted on bus transfers.
Weather-proof options: Tours run rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
Family-friendly: Suitable for those comfortable on a bike, though minors must be accompanied by an adult.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour lasts around 4 hours, with start times varying depending on the day. Exact times are available when booking, so you can plan around other London activities. The experience begins with a bike rental, helmet, and a guided route that weaves through central London.

The Itinerary: Landmarks and Stories

Big Ben and Westminster: We loved the way this tour highlights the power of the UK Parliament — standing beneath Big Ben, you can almost hear the chimes echoing through history. The guide shares tales of Parliament’s turbulent past, making the grand clock tower more than just a photo stop.

Buckingham Palace: Cycling past the Queen’s residence, you’ll catch the changing of the guard if timing aligns. The guide recounts stories of royal visitors and the significance of this historic building, making it a highlight for many.

Westminster Abbey: An impressive stop where you can appreciate the secrets of this centuries-old church. The guide reveals details about the 3,000+ who are buried there, adding a personal touch to this iconic site.

Hyde Park and Trafalgar Square: Riding through these open spaces, you’ll get a feel for London’s public life. Trafalgar Square, with Nelson’s Column and lively street performers, offers vibrant photo opportunities.

The Cycling Experience

We found the cycling route to be well-paced, with stops allowing for photos and quick breaks. The guide’s commentary kept the group engaged, sharing facts and stories that made each landmark come alive. The group size is typically manageable, making it easy to stay together and ask questions.

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The Thames River Cruise

Post-ride, you’ll receive a 24-hour ticket to a boat cruising between Westminster and Greenwich. This is perfect for unwinding after the busy sightseeing on land. Cruising along the Thames, you’ll pass under historic bridges, gaze at Tower of London, and enjoy views of the city’s skyline.

From the reviews, many travelers appreciate that the cruise is a serene way to see London’s riverside and provides a different perspective of the city’s landmarks. It’s a relaxing way to extend your sightseeing without additional cost, and the flexibility to use the ticket within 24 hours adds convenience.

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Value for the Price

Considering the inclusion of a guided bike tour, helmet, and a 24-hour Thames cruise ticket, this experience offers solid value. It’s an all-in-one package that combines engaging land exploration with water views, saving you the trouble of booking separate tickets.

Guided Tour Quality

According to reviews, the guides are well-informed and personable. One reviewer praised their guide Fran as “knowledgeable and informative,” while another appreciated the private tour she received due to rain — showing the tour’s flexibility and customer-focused approach.

Practical Considerations

This tour is suitable for most healthy, active travelers, but unaccompanied minors are not permitted for safety reasons. Participants should bring weather-appropriate clothing, a passport or ID, and a credit card. Because the tour runs regardless of weather, packing rain gear or layers is wise.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Royal Bike Tour with Thames Cruise is an excellent choice for those who want to combine physical activity with sightseeing. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families comfortable on bikes and eager for a more engaging way to see London’s landmarks. The addition of the river cruise makes it a well-rounded experience, especially for travelers who appreciate variety and flexibility.

If you enjoy guided storytelling and want to see major sights while avoiding large tour buses, this is a fun, authentic option. The reviews highlight that knowledgeable guides can make all the difference — adding fascinating stories that make each landmark memorable.

This tour is especially valuable for those who want a snapshot of London’s royal and historic sites, paired with a relaxing cruise on the Thames. It’s a great way to maximize a half-day, combining activity, culture, and scenic views in one package.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 18 months are allowed, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for those comfortable on a bike; unaccompanied minors are not permitted for safety reasons.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, a credit card, and weather-appropriate clothing. Since the tour operates rain or shine, dressing for the weather is recommended.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise ticket is valid for 24 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the river at your own pace after the guided tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your spot. You can reserve now and pay later, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information provided doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special requirements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk booking.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour runs rain or shine. It’s advisable to dress accordingly, as London weather can be unpredictable.

How large are the groups?
While not explicitly specified, reviews suggest manageable group sizes, which allows for a more personalized experience and easier questions.

Final Words

The London Package: Royal Bike Tour with River Thames Cruise offers a lively, engaging way to see the city’s most famous landmarks while enjoying the fresh air and scenic river views. It’s particularly suited for active travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and relaxation. The knowledgeable guides and the flexibility of the Thames cruise ticket add to its appeal, making it a memorable half-day in London.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or seeking a different perspective on familiar sights, this tour provides a practical, fun, and authentic way to connect with London’s royal and historic heart.