As a London resident it’s easy to take for granted the city’s sights and sounds. Indeed, when thoughts turn to booking the next holiday, most of us will opt for far flung destinations which promise sand, sunshine and er... stunning architecture.
When it comes to the River Thames, although the sunshine and sand may be in short supply, there is plenty of the latter.

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And what better way to enjoy London in all of its glory than an evening cruise along the river?
On Monday night I disembarked from Westminster Pier for River Lights, a two-hour-long trip ‘through 2,000 years of liquid history’.
London’s number one sightseeing tour on the Thames, City Cruises, played host to the event.
Despite having received mixed reviews on a certain travel website, the tour operator provided a really rather enjoyable experience.
Sailing down the Thames after sunset, the cruise showcased London’s riverside landmarks at their glittering best.

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From the spectre of London’s illuminated bridges (something City Cruises’ staff were quick to praise mayor Boris for) to the marvellous views of The Shard, The London Eye and the Oxo Tower, among others, you’ll be hard pushed not to feel impressed.
The boat itself was comfortable and clean, and included in the ticket price is a glass of bubbly along with canapés. But its main selling point is the upper deck, which ensures you’re given the very best of views as you pass along the Thames.
If trawling the Thames at nightime doesn’t float your boat, you’ll be happy to hear that evening trips aren’t the only things on offer by the cruise provider.

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There are guided sightseeing day tours  – which coincidentally a friend attended the day prior and waxed lyrical about, hop-on-hop-off trips, tea cruises and special events – covering everything from Valentine’s to Christmas to New Year.
Then there’s the Thamesjet, a full-on adrenaline-fuelled ride, guaranteed to satisfy all of you speed fiends.
If there’s one thing I’ve gleaned from the experience it’s this: there really is nothing quite like seeing London from the water.