Historic Royal Palaces and Woods Tours have launched the official Tower of London River Tour with narration from the co-creator of the BBC’s Ghosts

The Tower of London River Tour boat, the Silver Raven, is welcomed to London by Governor of the Tower and Yeoman Gaoler © Historic Royal Palaces

Source: © Historic Royal Palaces

The Tower of London River Tour boat, the Silver Raven, was built especially for the new 40-minute circular river tours.

The official Tower of London River Tour, on board what is being described as the UK’s first electric tour boat, is now open for bookings. 

A collaboration between Historic Royal Palaces and Woods Tours, the tour takes passengers on a journey London’s history along the River Thames.

Martha Howe-Douglas, co-creator of BBC’s Ghosts, has narrated the 40-minute river tour which has been curated by Historic Royal Palaces and is delivered live by guides on board. 

“It’s such an honour to be part of the brilliant team who are bringing the past to life, on a boat designed for the future.”

Martha Howe-Douglas, BBC’s Ghosts

Starting at Tower Bridge, the circular cruise will take groups to the Houses of Parliament, highlighting the city’s iconic landmarks and their histories, highlighting connections to the infamous fortress where the tour begins.

The electric boat, the Silver Raven, was built at Pendennis shipyard in Cornwall especially for the collaboration and is said to represent modern British shipbuilding and sustainable tourism. Its interior subtly links the river to the Tower of London and echoes the heyday of city river cruising. 

The Captain of the new Tower of London River Tour boat presents a ceremonial keg to Governor of the Tower and Yeoman Gaoler

Source: © Historic Royal Palaces

The Captain of the new Tower of London River Tour boat presents a ceremonial keg to the Governor of the Tower and Yeoman Gaoler.

Martha said: “I’ve been on a deep dive through the Thames’ murky past (thankfully not literally!) unearthing the stories that have shaped London, so to see the Silver Raven set sail from the Tower, carrying those tales into the future, will be very special. It’s such an honour to be part of the brilliant team who are bringing the past to life, on a boat designed for the future.”

The River Thames has been central to the Tower of London’s story for centuries, serving as both a lifeline and a path to power and infamy.

The new tour ensures an authentic historical experience with modern cultural references, reflecting the deep connection between the Tower and the river.

Passengers can enhance their experience with a range of refreshments available onboard as well as English sparkling wine available to order in advance. 

For information and tickets visit toweroflondonrivertour.com.