Kew Pier London
A charming Thames river pier offering scenic boat trips to Westminster and easy access to Kew Gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views from the open deck
Kew Pier London
Best Time
Best views from the open deck
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Thames river pier offering scenic boat trips to Westminster and easy access to Kew Gardens.
"The boat trip from here back to Westminster is really delightful, offering great views along the Thames."
🚢 Book Tickets Ahead
Advance booking is recommended, especially for popular routes and times.
💺 Grab the Best Seats
Arrive early to secure prime spots on the open-air upper deck for unobstructed views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Thames River Cruise
Kew Pier to Westminster Pier
Enjoy iconic London sights from the water on a classic boat, with open-air or covered seating options.
Kew Gardens Proximity
Adjacent to Kew Pier
Easily access the world-renowned Kew Gardens, a perfect complement to a river journey.
Unique Pub Experience
Tap on the Line Pub
A cozy pub with a unique view of the London Underground line, offering a relaxed atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Thames Journey
Kew Pier to Kew Gardens Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Tickets Ahead
Advance booking is recommended, especially for popular routes and times.
💺 Grab the Best Seats
Arrive early to secure prime spots on the open-air upper deck for unobstructed views.
🍺 Onboard Refreshments
A bar offers ale, cider, and snacks, but food options are limited. Consider dining nearby.
🚶♀️ Walk to Kew Gardens
Kew Pier is a short, convenient walk from the Elizabeth Gate of Kew Gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Tickets Ahead
Advance booking is recommended, especially for popular routes and times.
💺 Grab the Best Seats
Arrive early to secure prime spots on the open-air upper deck for unobstructed views.
🍺 Onboard Refreshments
A bar offers ale, cider, and snacks, but food options are limited. Consider dining nearby.
🚶♀️ Walk to Kew Gardens
Kew Pier is a short, convenient walk from the Elizabeth Gate of Kew Gardens.
🌦️ All-Weather Seating
Enjoy the journey from the open-air top deck or the covered seating inside and on the rear deck.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers praise the scenic and enjoyable boat trips from Kew Pier, highlighting the classic boats and delightful views along the Thames. The convenience of being near Kew Gardens is a significant plus. However, some reviews mention a need for boat updates, better commentary, and more organized queuing for seats. Limited food options onboard are also noted.
"The boat trip from here back to Westminster is enjoyable. Their boats are all that simple that it looks like your personal boat. In other words, it doesn’t look like a commercial boat. If you enjoy rains/sunlight, you can sit on the upper deck which in the open air. The rear deck covered seating is also available which is a part of on boat restaurant. The journey upto westminster is really delightful."
M K Nangia
"The boat trip from here back to Westminster is delightful. Their boats are all classics that are well preserved. You can sit on top in the open air as well as inside for when it rains. There is so much to see when you travel along the Thames, Battersea Park, Craven Cottage, MI6.
They have a well stocked bar with Ale & Cider, but the food options are limited to some snacks. So do have your lunch in one of the restaurants nearby, or at Kew Gardens, the pier is walking distance from there.
Boats sail on a wel-kept schedule."
Nicolaas Strating
"We booked a last-minute boat trip from Kew Pier to Westminster Pier. The boat itself was in need of a little updating, and the trip could have been improved by some audio/commentary, but it provided some much needed relief from the hustle and bustle and normal London transport routes. Staff were not very attentive - we left 10 minutes late despite the boat being sat idle for at least 20 minutes prior to the advertised departure time. No method of queuing, so the best seats went to people who had only just turned up and had been hanging around closest to the entrance at the point at which the gate was opened. Bar staff gave up halfway through the journey and disappeared to smoke off the back of the boat and make personal phone calls, but were friendly and chatty when called upon."
Martin Murden
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kew Pier is accessible via the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers service from various piers, including Westminster Pier. It's also a short walk from Kew Gardens station.
The most scenic route is by riverboat from Westminster Pier to Kew Pier. This journey offers views of many London landmarks.
Yes, riverboats operate directly from Westminster Pier to Kew Pier, offering a delightful way to travel along the Thames.
The boat trip from Westminster Pier to Kew Pier typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on the service and stops.
Yes, Kew Pier is within walking distance of Kew Gardens Underground station (District Line) and Kew Bridge Overground station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for the boat trip from Kew Pier to Westminster Pier can vary. It's advisable to check the official Thames Clippers website for current pricing. Some reviews mention it's a delightful journey with classic boats.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the pier, but booking in advance is recommended to guarantee your spot, especially during peak times.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment, as tickets can sell out quickly.
Check the official Thames Clippers website for any available discounts or travel cards that might offer savings on your journey.
Boat services operate on a schedule. It's best to consult the official Thames Clippers timetable for the most up-to-date operating hours for services departing from Kew Pier.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kew Pier is primarily a departure and arrival point for riverboats. It offers easy access to Kew Gardens and nearby attractions like the Tap on the Line pub.
You'll see landmarks like Battersea Park, Craven Cottage, the MI6 building, and as you approach Westminster, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye.
Some reviews mention informative commentary, while others suggest it could be improved. It's best to check with the operator for specific details on commentary services.
Boats offer both open-air seating on the upper deck and covered seating inside or on the rear deck, suitable for all weather conditions.
Accessibility can vary by boat and pier. It's advisable to contact the riverboat operator directly to inquire about specific accessibility arrangements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kew Pier itself has limited food options, mainly snacks available on the boat. There are restaurants and cafes nearby, and within Kew Gardens.
The boats typically have a well-stocked bar with ale and cider, and offer a selection of snacks. Full meals are generally not available.
The Tap on the Line pub is located near Kew Pier and offers a cozy dining experience. There are also various cafes and restaurants within Kew Gardens.
It's best to check the specific policy of the riverboat operator regarding bringing outside food and drinks onboard.
While there is a bar and snack service on some boats, they are not typically full-service restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The pier itself offers views of the Thames. The real photo opportunities begin on the boat trip, capturing London's skyline and landmarks.
Sunny afternoons provide great natural light for capturing the city's architecture. Evening cruises offer stunning views of illuminated landmarks.
Yes, the open-air deck provides excellent, unobstructed views for photography, but be mindful of weather conditions.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be discreet and avoid disrupting other passengers.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide cityscapes and details. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Consider a lightweight setup for ease of movement.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The journey offers a less crowded and more engaging way to see London's sights compared to public buses or the Tube. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as onboard food options are limited, and plan for a full day to truly enjoy both the boat trip and the gardens without feeling rushed. 🚶 Budget Travelers
For a truly budget-friendly experience, focus on enjoying the views from the open deck and bring your own snacks and drinks to minimize onboard purchases. couples
Combine this with a stroll through the beautiful Kew Gardens or a cozy stop at the Tap on the Line pub for a perfect day out. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thames Riverboat Experience
While the journey is generally delightful, some travelers have noted areas for improvement. A lack of audio commentary on some trips means passengers might miss out on historical context or details about the sights they are passing.
The onboard bar provides refreshments, including ale and cider, along with snacks, though it's recommended to have a full meal before or after the trip, either at Kew Gardens or in one of the nearby restaurants.
Kew Gardens: A Natural Escape
During autumn, Kew Gardens transforms into a spectacle of fiery foliage, with seasonal trails and special events like 'Halloween at Kew' adding to its allure.
The gardens provide a rich educational experience, showcasing plant diversity from around the globe. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature, discover rare species, and enjoy the beauty of meticulously curated landscapes. The Tap on the Line Pub
It provides a charming contrast to the grander attractions, offering a taste of local London life. The pub is known for its cozy vibe and quaint corners, making it an inviting place to unwind.
Social
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