River Thames

The River Thames is one of the most famous rivers in the world. It runs 215 miles (346 km) from Thames Head in Gloucestershire to the North Sea near Tilbury in Essex. Around 55 miles (85 km) upstream from its estuary, the river becomes tidal, this means the water levels rise and fall with the ebb of the tide. Unpredictable high tides and wind can cause a risk of flood, so the Thames Barrier was built in 1982 to help control the tidal surges. Whilst under the rule of Emperor Claudius in AD 43, the Romans became some of the first inhabitants around the River Thames. They established settlements on two of the highest geographical points at Ludgate Hill and Cornhill. These smaller settlements merged in to one larger town named Londinium, which eventually became the London we know today. Throughout the ages, the River Thames has become synonymous with the city of London, and a fundamentally important part of London life. It has been the source of income for generations and has inspired famous authors and artists, from Samuel Pepys, to Canaletto, to Monet and Turner. By the 18th century, the river was one of the busiest waterways in the world, and some said you could actually cross the river by just stepping from ship to ship. The river was also stacked with an almost continuous line of wharves that ran for miles along its busy shores. Numerous commercial docks were built downstream from London Bridge, and tall wooden ships and masted sailing vessels, plied their trade along the bustling banks of the Thames. The economic importance of the River Thames began to decline in the early 20th century. As ships became bigger, the shallow tidal waters of the Thames were not deep enough to sustain further growth. This, accompanied by improved road transportation networks and the decline of the British Empire, eventually sealed the fate of the Thames. Today it’s possible to explore the banks of the river and London itself, by small cruise ships or by the Thames Clipper River Service. Alternatively, you can take one of several leisure helicopter rides that fly above the city and give breathtaking views of the famous London sights.