One Day in London

Published by Thames Rockets 11 days ago

The Ultimate High-Speed Itinerary

Only got one day in London? No problem. At Thames Rockets, we know how to make every minute count. From adrenaline-fuelled speedboat rides on the River Thames to world-famous landmarks, free museums and brilliant places to eat, this guide shows you how to see the very best of the capital in just 24 hours.
If you want a London itinerary packed with iconic sightseeing, river views, culture and excitement, start here.

Start Your Day the Thames Rockets Way 
There’s no better way to kick off a short London trip than on the river. London’s skyline was built to be seen from the Thames, and our high-speed boats let you experience it faster and more memorably than any bus tour.
Board at the London Eye Pier and jump on the Ultimate London Adventure with Thames Rockets. You’ll cruise past Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe and Tower Bridge, before opening the throttles and racing through Canary Wharf at up to 35mph.

It’s sightseeing with a serious sense of fun, guided by our expert skippers and entertaining tour guides who bring London’s history to life.
Why start with Thames Rockets? You see more of London in under an hour, You get unbeatable photo opportunities & It’s one of the most exciting things to do in London!

Take in the Skyline on the London Eye

After your speedboat adventure, slow things down with a flight on the London Eye, sitting right next to our pier.
The Eye lifts you 135 metres above the Thames, giving panoramic views across Westminster, Buckingham Palace, The Shard and beyond. On a clear day, you can see for miles across the capital.
It takes about 30 minutes and is one of the most iconic London sightseeing experiences.
IF you plan to visit London Eye out top tip: Book in advance, especially during weekends and peak travel seasons.

Explore London for Free: Museums and Culture

One of the best things about London is how many world-class attractions are completely free. When time is limited, pick one or two that suit your interests.
Located on the South Bank, Tate Modern is Britain’s national gallery of modern art. From famous masterpieces to bold contemporary exhibitions, it’s ideal for a quick cultural stop with river views outside.
If you prefer dinosaurs, gems and natural wonders, head to the Natural History Museum in South Kensington. Entry is free and the building itself is spectacular.
These are perfect for travellers looking for free things to do in London without missing out on quality experiences.

Lunch in Style at London Steakhouse Company

By now you’ll have worked up an appetite. For a proper London lunch, visit the London Steakhouse Company. Created by Marco Pierre White, it’s famous for premium cuts, classic British dishes and relaxed city dining.
Whether you fancy steak, burgers or lighter options, it’s a great place to recharge before your afternoon adventures. Booking ahead is recommended, especially at busy times.

Afternoon Wandering and River Views 

After lunch, enjoy London at street level. Walk along the South Bank, one of the most scenic areas in the city. You’ll pass street performers, riverside bars, book stalls and beautiful views back towards St Paul’s Cathedral.
If you have extra time, explore Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square or dip into another free museum. London works brilliantly for short visits because so many top attractions are close together and easy to reach.

Evening in the Capital

As the sun sets, London really comes alive. The Thames reflects the city lights and areas like Soho, Covent Garden and Westminster buzz with theatres, pubs and restaurants.
If you still have energy, grab a drink by the river or enjoy a relaxed dinner watching the skyline you explored earlier at full speed with Thames Rockets.

Where to Stay

If you’re staying overnight, location matters. We recommend Point A Hotel Westminster for visitors who want comfort without paying luxury prices.
It’s close to Westminster Bridge, the London Eye and the River Thames, making it perfect for a one-day or weekend London break. You’re right in the heart of the action, with transport links and landmarks just minutes away. 

Final Thoughts: One Day in London, Done Properly

If you only have one day in London, the secret is simple: see more, move smarter and make it memorable. Starting on the river with Thames Rockets gives you a fast, fun and unforgettable introduction to the capital, letting you race past world-famous landmarks before most visitors have even finished breakfast. Pair that with the panoramic views from the London Eye, free cultural stops at London’s top museums, a great lunch at London Steakhouse Company, and a riverside wander along the South Bank, and you’ve packed a full London experience into just 24 hours. Add a comfortable stay at Point A Westminster, and everything you need is right on your doorstep. Short on time does not mean short on adventure. With Thames Rockets, one day in London can feel like the best day of your trip.

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