There’s something unforgettable about eating dinner as the sun sets over the River Thames. The water glows gold, the London Eye spins slowly, and the lights of Tower Bridge start to flicker on. It’s not just a meal-it’s a moment. And London has more than a dozen restaurants where you can sit right on the water’s edge, fork in hand, with the city’s most iconic landmarks unfolding before you.
Where to Find the Best Thames Views
You don’t need to book a fancy penthouse to get a great view. Some of the best riverside tables are in unassuming spots-old pubs turned dining rooms, modern glass boxes, and even historic warehouses with outdoor terraces. The key? Look for places that face south or southeast. That’s where you’ll catch the full sweep of the river: from Westminster Bridge to the Tower, and beyond.
Start at The River Café is a long-standing favorite on the banks of the Thames in Hammersmith, known for its simple Italian food and unobstructed riverfront seating. It’s been around since 1987 and still draws crowds for its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. The terrace wraps around the building, so even if you’re not at the front, you’ll still catch glimpses of the water and passing boats.
Just downstream, St. Katharine Docks Restaurant is a sleek, modern spot tucked into the historic dock area near Tower Bridge, offering floor-to-ceiling windows and a rooftop terrace with 180-degree views. It’s quieter than the tourist-heavy spots, and the menu leans British with a global twist-think roast duck with blackberry glaze or smoked haddock chowder.
Top 5 Riverside Restaurants for Dinner
- Skylon is a dining room perched on the South Bank, directly across from the Houses of Parliament. Its panoramic windows make it feel like you’re floating above the river. The menu is modern British, with a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Reserve a window table for sunset.
- The Boathouse is a cozy, wood-paneled pub on the Thames Path in Putney. It’s not fancy, but the outdoor benches face the water directly, and you can watch rowers pass by at dusk. Try the fish pie-it’s been on the menu since 1998.
- Southbank Centre’s River Restaurant is a hidden gem inside the Royal Festival Hall. It’s open to the public, no ticket needed, and the glass walls make it feel like you’re dining on a boat. The lunchtime set menu is excellent value, and the evening wine list is curated by a sommelier from Bordeaux.
- Shoal is a minimalist seafood spot on the south side of Tower Bridge. It’s small, with only 22 seats, and you can watch the bridge lift from your table. Order the oyster platter and the grilled sardines. They come with house-made sourdough and seaweed butter.
- Thames Clippers Bistro is a floating restaurant on a converted riverboat docked at Westminster Pier. It’s not a traditional dining room, but the 7 p.m. dinner cruise includes a three-course meal and live jazz. It’s the only place where you can eat while the river itself moves beneath you.
When to Go for the Best Experience
Don’t just pick any evening. The best views happen between late March and early October, when daylight lasts until after 8 p.m. During winter, the light fades by 5 p.m., and many outdoor terraces close. But if you want a romantic night out, winter has its own magic-the city lights reflect off the dark water, and the river feels quieter, more intimate.
Book at least two weeks ahead if you want a window table. Weeknights are easier to get into, but weekends are when the atmosphere really comes alive. Try to arrive 20 minutes before sunset. That’s when the sky turns amber, the buildings light up, and the barges start to cruise past with their own little spotlights.
What to Order
Most riverside restaurants lean into British seafood. That’s not an accident. The Thames is still home to eel, salmon, and plaice, even if most of it’s now imported. Look for dishes that use local ingredients: Cornish crab, Kentish oysters, Sussex lamb, or Thames-side foraged herbs.
For wine, go for a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir. These pair better with fish and salads than heavy reds. And don’t skip dessert. Many places make their own ice cream or sorbet using fruit from nearby markets. The raspberry and thyme gelato at Skylon is a standout.
What to Avoid
Not every place that says "riverside" actually has a view. Some restaurants are just near the river, with their tables facing a parking lot or a road. Always check Google Maps Street View before booking. Look for photos tagged "view" or "river" on Instagram. Real guests post them.
Also, avoid places that charge a premium just for the view. Some tourist traps on the South Bank double the price for a table near the window. You’ll pay £80 for a mediocre steak with a view. At Shoal or The Boathouse, you pay £45 for a better meal and a real view.
How to Get There
Public transport is your best bet. Most of these restaurants are within a 5-minute walk of a Tube station or river pier. The Jubilee Line stops at Westminster and Waterloo. The District and Circle Lines run along the riverbank. If you’re coming from outside London, the Thames Clippers riverbus is the most scenic route. You can buy a day pass and hop on and off at piers near the restaurants.
Driving? Not recommended. Parking near the Thames is expensive, limited, and often blocked for filming or events. Even Uber drops you off at a curb, not the front door.
Why This Matters
London’s river isn’t just a waterway-it’s the city’s quiet heartbeat. It’s where rowers train at dawn, where boats carry cargo and tourists, where firefighters once battled fires in the 1600s. Dining here connects you to that history. It’s not just about the food. It’s about sitting where generations have watched the city change, and still, the river keeps flowing.
Are there any riverside restaurants in London that are budget-friendly?
Yes. The Boathouse in Putney and Southbank Centre’s River Restaurant both offer meals under £25. You can get a full three-course dinner at the latter for £18 during lunch. These spots don’t charge extra for the view, and they’re just as beautiful as the pricier ones.
Do I need to dress up for riverside dining in London?
It depends. Places like Skylon and The River Café suggest smart casual-no shorts or flip-flops. But The Boathouse and Shoal are perfectly fine with jeans and a nice shirt. Always check the restaurant’s website. Most list their dress code clearly.
Can I bring kids to riverside restaurants?
Most do, but not all are family-friendly. The River Café and Southbank Centre’s River Restaurant have kids’ menus and high chairs. Shoal and St. Katharine Docks are quieter and better suited for adults. If you’re going with children, call ahead to confirm.
Which restaurant has the best view of Tower Bridge?
Shoal wins here. Its windows face directly at the bridge, and you can watch it lift in real time. St. Katharine Docks Restaurant also has a great angle, especially from its rooftop terrace. Avoid places on the north bank-they’re too far away to see the detail.
Are any of these restaurants open year-round?
Yes. All five top restaurants listed here are open 365 days a year. Outdoor terraces may close in heavy rain or wind, but the indoor seating remains open. Some places even offer heated outdoor seating in winter. Always check their website before visiting in December or January.
Next Steps
If you’re planning a trip, start by picking one restaurant and booking a table for sunset. Then walk along the Thames Path afterward. You’ll pass street musicians, art installations, and old pubs. It’s the best way to end the day. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a barge passing under Tower Bridge with its lights on, just as the first star appears over the city.