London: Ghost Walk and River Thames Boat Ride

London: Ghost Walk and River Thames Boat Ride is a surprisingly affordable way to see some of the city’s darkest corners and ghost stories, all in just two hours. For around $36, you get a guided tour that takes you through historic parks, haunted houses, and ends with a relaxing boat cruise on the River Thames. If you’re interested in London’s eerie legends or enjoy a mix of walking and boat rides, this experience offers a lot of bang for your buck.

What we love about this tour is the narration of guides like Marvin, Luke, and John, who are praised for their storytelling skills, making the history come alive with humor and enthusiasm. Plus, the boat ride with its onboard bar and illuminated views of London’s iconic landmarks create a memorable atmosphere. The combination of walking through historic sights and ending with a scenic cruise makes this a well-rounded experience.

One consideration is that stairs are involved, which could pose a problem if you have mobility issues. Also, since the tour is about stories and legends, some may find the spooky tales a bit intense if traveling with very young children. Overall, it’s best suited for those interested in history, ghost stories, and a bit of adventure, and especially for couples or families with older kids who enjoy a mix of history and spooky fun.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines walking, storytelling, and a scenic Thames River cruise.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Praised for their engaging storytelling and historical insight.
• Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the two-hour experience, including a boat ride and access to a bar.
• Historic & Haunted Sights: Includes stops at Green Park, St James’s Palace, Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Tower of London, and more.
• Spectacular Views: The evening cruise offers illuminated views of London’s major landmarks.
• Accessibility Considerations: Involves stairs, so check mobility needs before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Begin Your Journey at Green Park, where the tour kicks off near the Statue of Goddess Diana. From here, the guide leads you through some of London’s most famous and photogenic spots, like St James’s Palace, Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Each stop is designed to both give you a chance to snap photos and hear stories that highlight London’s haunted or gruesome past.

The walking portion of the tour lasts roughly 15 minutes at each of these key sites, giving enough time to soak in the atmosphere and listen to captivating tales, such as the haunted histories of royal parks or grisly stories linked to former prisons and houses. As one review notes, guides like Marvin and Luke add humor and vivid detail, making even the darkest stories entertaining rather than purely creepy.

The highlight for many is the boat ride on the Thames, which lasts about 30 minutes. This cruise is not only a relaxing break from walking but also offers spectacular views of illuminated London landmarks. You’ll see the London Eye, Tower of London, and the Gherkin from a different perspective, with the night sky as a dramatic backdrop. Many reviewers rave about the onboard bar and the illuminated sights, describing it as a “fun and atmospheric” way to end the tour.

After the cruise, you’ll explore the haunted house sites and parks — places that have long been associated with ghost stories and dark legends. The final stop is at the Tower of London, a former prison with a long history of executions and imprisonments, making it a fitting ending for a spooky tour. The overall pacing is well thought out, balancing walking with moments to enjoy the scenery and stories.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of history and thrill. Unlike typical sightseeing tours that focus solely on famous landmarks, this experience gives you a sense of the darker side of London’s past. It’s clear from reviews that the guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling skill are major highlights, making history feel alive and sometimes chilling.

On the practical side, the tour starts near the Green Park exit of Green Park Station, making it easily accessible from many parts of London. The activity lasts about 2 hours, which is manageable even for those with tight schedules or wanting a quick but memorable experience. The price point is quite reasonable considering the mix of walking, storytelling, and a boat cruise with drinks.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers who appreciate a spooky twist. It’s also perfect for families with older children, given the engaging stories and scenic boat ride. If you enjoy guided storytelling and want to see London’s major sights illuminated at night, this tour offers a unique perspective.

However, those with mobility issues should note the stairs involved, and parents with very young children might find the spooky stories too intense. Also, if you’re looking for a daytime activity or a more traditional sightseeing tour, you might prefer something more straightforward.

Overall, it’s a great value for a fun, slightly spooky evening that combines London’s iconic sights with its haunted stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, with a mix of walking stops and a boat cruise.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, the boat trip, and access to the onboard bar.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins near the Statue of Goddess Diana at Green Park and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 0-3 go free, but the tour is not recommended for kids under 12 due to the spooky content and stairs involved.

Are there multiple languages available?
Yes, the tour is available in English, French, and German.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially during busy times, it’s best to reserve beforehand.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking and possibly cooler at night; consider an umbrella if rain is forecast.

Is the boat cruise on a large or small boat?
While specific size details aren’t provided, the cruise is described as a luxury boat with a bar, suggesting a comfortable, well-appointed vessel.

How many people typically join the tour?
Reviews mention large groups but also highlight personalized storytelling, so expect a lively group setting.

In the end, this tour offers a lively way to explore London’s haunted past, illuminated landmarks, and scenic river views — all in a compact two-hour package. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy stories, history, and a touch of spooky fun without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with older kids, you’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll have stories to tell.