What are the best riverside restaurants in London?

Some of the best riverside restaurants in London include The River Café in Hammersmith, The Narrow by Gordon Ramsay in Limehouse, Skylon on the Southbank, The Gun in Docklands, and Le Pont de la Tour near Tower Bridge.

Which London riverside restaurant has the best view?

Le Pont de la Tour offers some of the best river views in London, with tables overlooking Tower Bridge and the Thames. The River Café also provides stunning sunset views along the west London riverbank.

Do riverside restaurants in London require reservations?

Yes. Many of London’s riverside restaurants are in high demand, particularly on weekends and during summer months. Booking in advance is strongly recommended.

What is the average cost of riverside dining in London?

Prices vary depending on the restaurant, but expect to pay between £40 and £150 per person at most riverside dining venues in London.

Where can I book riverside dining experiences in London?

You can book verified riverside dining experiences through The London Tourist’s trusted restaurant partners to secure tables with the best river views.

Best Riverside Dining in London

Food & DrinkRestaurants

31 Oct

Written By The Tourist

There’s something timeless about dining beside the River Thames.

From relaxed terrace lunches with skyline views to elegant waterside tasting menus, London’s riverside restaurants offer an unbeatable combination of food and atmosphere. Whether you’re after a romantic dinner, a long summer lunch, or a stylish evening spot with cocktails by the water, these are five of the best riverside restaurants in London to book right now.

1. The Gun - Docklands

Cuisine: British Gastro Pub
Location: 27 Coldharbour, Docklands, London E14 9NS
Price Point: ££
Awards: Time Out Love London Award Winner, 2024
The London Tourist Tip: The outdoor terrace is perfect for a pint or Sunday roast with river views towards The O2.

Once frequented by Lord Nelson, The Gun is steeped in maritime history. Today, it’s one of London’s best riverside pubs for quality British food, with a seasonal menu, open fires in winter, and an unbeatable riverside terrace for summer dining.

The view of over the Greenwich Peninsula at The Gun

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2. Le Pont de la Tour - Tower Bridge

Cuisine: French Fine Dining
Location: 36D Shad Thames, Tower Bridge, London SE1 2YE
Price Point: ££££
Awards: OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award 2024
The London Tourist Tip: Ideal for romantic dinners - try to reserve a terrace table directly overlooking Tower Bridge.

This classic French restaurant has been a London landmark for decades. With impeccable service, a renowned wine list, and a terrace that offers some of the most photogenic views in the city, Le Pont de la Tour defines riverside elegance.

One of the best views of Tower Bridge in London at Le Pont de la Tour

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3. Skylon - Southbank

Cuisine: Modern European
Location: Royal Festival Hall, Belvedere Road, Southbank, London SE1 8XX
Price Point: £££
Awards: Wine Spectator Award of Excellence (2024)
The London Tourist Tip: Sit by the window to enjoy sweeping river views across to the City skyline.

Located within the Royal Festival Hall, Skylon combines contemporary style with classic sophistication. Its floor-to-ceiling windows make it a standout for Sunday brunches and romantic dinners, offering seasonal British and European cuisine in a bright, stylish space.

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4. The River Café - Hammersmith

Cuisine: Italian
Location: Rainville Road, Hammersmith, London W6 9HA
Price Point: ££££
Awards: One Michelin Star (2024), The Good Food Guide Top 10 Restaurants 2024
The London Tourist Tip: Book an outside table in summer for one of the best al fresco dining spots in London.

An enduring icon of London’s dining scene, The River Café continues to define simple yet exceptional Italian cooking. With seasonal produce, handmade pasta and an ever-changing menu, it’s a masterclass in quality. The setting on the north bank of the Thames makes it ideal for sunset dining.

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5. The Narrow by Gordon Ramsay - Limehouse

Cuisine: Modern British
Location: 44 Narrow Street, Limehouse, London E14 8DP
Price Point: £££
Awards: AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence (2024)
The London Tourist Tip: Arrive before dusk to enjoy a cocktail on the terrace overlooking the boats at Limehouse Basin.

This elegant waterside gastropub brings Gordon Ramsay’s signature polish to a relaxed riverfront setting. Expect refined takes on British classics, seasonal produce, and warm service with unbeatable views of the Thames.

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