River Red Rover
Reviewed by Dorothy White
We had a fantastic day in London yesterday, the highlight being a River Red Rover City Cruise on the River Thames.
We boarded the City Cruises boat at Westminster Pier, and because the weather was so good we were able to sit on the top deck and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
After a short trip to the London Eye to pick up more passengers we were on our way to Tower Pier. Our guide was fantastic, he told us there was a recorded commentary on board, but said if we preferred he could point out places of interest along the way himself.
He was a mine of information, Big Ben, not the whole structure as many people thought, but the bell inside. Under many bridges including London Bridge, pointing out interesting things along the way, before turning to moor at Tower Pier to allow some passengers off and more on.
Once we left Tower Pier we had a fairly long trip to Greenwich. Not many places of interest along this part of the river, but so many expensive waterside apartments and tiny, almost hidden pubs. Incredible to think that old, disused warehouses have been cleverly converted into luxury apartments. Of course there are also all the newly built ones as well.
Downstairs on the boat there were hot and cold refreshments available in addition to proper toilets which were very clean.
Once at Greenwich, we were told our time is set from there at 1pm ever day.
We decided to stay on the boat and return to Tower Pier as I wanted to visit the Tower of London to see the poppies.
As we left the boat at Tower Pier it was really, really crowded, and the queue to get back on the boat for the London Eye or Westminster Pier so very long. We regretted our decision to leave the boat, although I am really pleased we were able to see the poppies. It was half term and a beautiful day at that!
We decided not to wait in the long queue for the boat and instead headed for Tower Hill and the tube.
I can really recommend City Cruises River Red Rover. The boat gives great views of the buildings, bridges etc… along the River Thames, and the guide on our boat was very entertaining. It is also a very relaxing way to get to Greenwich.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £16.20 per adult, £8.10 per child or £32.40 for family. These are online prices saving 10% off the pier price.
For more information, route map, timetable or to book tickets online click here.
