Let’s talk about the time I sipped tea and nibbled on dainty sandwiches while cruising down the River Thames. If you’re picturing a genteel affair with finger sandwiches and perfect cakes, you might need to adjust that image just a tad—but more on that later. Because let me tell you, seeing London from the water is the kind of experience that stays with you long after the last sip of Earl Grey.
Setting Sail from Tower Millennium Pier
The adventure began at Tower Millennium Pier, where our boat waited, gleaming in the London sun (yes, there was actual sun in London—miracles do happen!). As we embarked, the city skyline unfolded before us, revealing a side of London you only get to see from the river. Tower Bridge, with its majestic towers and intricate designs, loomed ahead, and Big Ben, ever the icon, waved at us from afar like an old friend.
From the moment we pushed off, the River Thames turned into a silver ribbon, wrapping London’s landmarks in a panoramic gift box. As we floated along, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the city’s beauty really shines from this vantage point. The stone giants that guard London’s history look even more impressive when you see them reflected in the Thames.
The Vegan Menu: Hits and Misses
Now, onto the main event—afternoon tea. As a vegan, I was thrilled to see that they offered a plant-based menu. My plate was a colourful assortment of sandwiches that ranged from intriguing to, well, let’s just say they tried.
The Avocado Sandwich was a fresh start, with spiced avocado and tomato on basil and spinach bread. It was the kind of sandwich that makes you believe in green foods again. Next, the Baba Ganoush Sandwich on light rye and caraway bread promised a smoky, rich bite—but could have done with a bit more oomph in the flavour department. The Beetroot and Hummus Sandwich on white bread was…interestingly purple and did its best to jazz up the veggie classic, but the blandness of the bread let it down.
Then there was the Chipotle and Sweetcorn Sandwich on beetroot and dill bread. Here’s where the cruise lost a bit of wind in its sails. The chipotle was more of a whisper than a shout, and I found myself wishing for a bit more of that smoky kick.
But hey, it’s not all about the sandwiches, right? There were scones, and while the Plain Scone with sunflower spread and strawberry preserve wasn’t the buttery delight one might expect, it did its job of being a reliable vessel for jam. The scones may not have wowed, but they were a comforting nod to tradition.
The desserts, however, were where things got interesting. The Lemon Tart was refreshingly tangy and didn’t skimp on the zest, and the Triple Layer Victoria Sponge Cake was a fluffy, sweet end to the meal. The Orange Drizzle Cake had a lovely citrusy aroma, but it was the Oblong Chocolate Fudge Cake that stole the show—decadent, rich, and just what you need while watching London drift by.
The Verdict: Sights Over Bites
Here’s the thing: the food, while good, wasn’t the star of the show. And that’s okay. Because the real star was London herself. Gliding past the Tower of London, eyeing the sleek Shard, and admiring Big Ben from the best seat in the house—that’s what makes this afternoon tea cruise worth every penny. Seeing the city from the river gives you a fresh appreciation for London’s grandeur and history, and it’s an experience that truly makes you fall in love with this city all over again.
So, would I recommend this cruise? Absolutely. The tea might not win awards, but the views will. And if you’re in the mood for an unforgettable way to spend an afternoon in London, you can’t go wrong with this riverside adventure.
Ready to Set Sail?
If you’re itching to experience London’s iconic landmarks from the Thames (and enjoy some interesting vegan bites along the way), don’t wait! Book your Afternoon Tea Cruise now and prepare for a delightful journey through the heart of London. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s an experience that will give you a whole new perspective on this incredible city.
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