London isn’t just a city of history and landmarks; it’s also a place where your midday meal can become a memorable experience. Whether you’re after breathtaking views, iconic eateries, or a lively atmosphere, London offers a diverse range of lunch options. We particularly love the Lunch River Cruise on the Thames with 2-Course Meal, for its combination of sightseeing and culinary delight on the water, and the Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus for a lively, music-infused meal in a famous setting. These options showcase how you can enjoy your lunch while soaking up some of London’s most iconic sights or lively atmospheres.
London’s lunch experiences run the gamut from scenic river cruises to classic American-style diners, festive holiday cruises, and charming countryside escapes. Whether you’re a budget traveler, a foodie, or someone who wants a quick but memorable meal, there’s something here for you.
1. Lunch River Cruise on the Thames with 2-Course Meal
At number 1 on our list, this scenic lunch cruise along the Thames combines sightseeing with a delicious meal. For around $70, you’ll set sail from Tower Pier to Westminster, passing some of London’s most famous landmarks like Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye. The cruise lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect way to add a relaxing, visual dimension to your day.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of comfort and spectacle. You’ll enjoy a thoughtfully prepared 2-course meal, featuring dishes such as chicken supreme, while the boat glides past the Tower of London, Canary Wharf, and under Tower Bridge. The upper deck offers excellent photo opportunities, especially of the Houses of Parliament and the Coca-Cola London Eye. An onboard bar lets you purchase drinks to complement your meal, giving you a full London experience on water.
Reviews highlight the trip’s surprising quality—”The scenery was fantastic, the food was amazing, and the crew exceptional!”—and the fact that it’s a relaxing way to see London from a different perspective. If you love combining sightseeing with good food, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: A memorable, scenic lunch option perfect for travelers wanting to see London from the river while enjoying a decent meal.
2. Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
Next up, the iconic Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus offers a lively atmosphere and guaranteed seats. For about $43, you get a set menu that includes either lunch or dinner, with options for 2 or 3 courses, plus soft drinks. This is a fantastic choice if you want a relaxed meal filled with music memorabilia and a bit of fun.
The Hard Rock Cafe is renowned for its eclectic, rock-and-roll vibe and a collection of authentic memorabilia from music legends. You’ll enjoy classic American dishes in a vibrant environment, ideal for families, groups, or anyone looking for a lively dining experience. Priority seating means you won’t wait long, and the pre-booking ensures a smooth experience.
Guests praise the atmosphere—”Loved the vibe, great food, and memorabilia”—and find it a convenient way to combine sightseeing with a fun meal. The menu’s simplicity and the lively setting make it particularly good if you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable lunch without fuss.
Bottom Line: A lively, fun, and iconic dining experience suited for music lovers and those wanting a relaxed meal in central London.
3. Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner
For those seeking a slightly quieter, more upscale Hard Rock experience, the Old Park Lane location offers skip-the-line access and a classic American-style menu. For around $41, you get a 2- or 3-course meal with soft drinks, along with the chance to browse through legendary rock memorabilia.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to avoid long waits and still enjoy the signature atmosphere. The memorabilia collection features high-value collectibles and makes for an engaging backdrop to your meal. Guests consistently remark on the quality of the food and friendly service—”The memorabilia was great and the food was excellent”—making it a reliable choice to enjoy London’s famous music scene without the hassle.
While it’s a bit more structured than the Piccadilly location, it provides a more exclusive feel and a chance to explore the retail store. It’s ideal for music fans or those wanting a comfortable, American-style meal with a side of rock history.
Bottom Line: A dependable and slightly quieter alternative within the Hard Rock chain, offering a solid American meal in an engaging setting.
4. Festive London Christmas Day River Thames Lunch Cruise
Number 4 on our list is the festive Christmas Day cruise, a special holiday treat. For about 3 hours, you’ll cruise along the Thames with a 4-course traditional Christmas lunch featuring all the trimmings. This cruise’s appeal is its seasonal charm—seeing London’s iconic monuments decked out in holiday lights while enjoying a hearty, festive meal.
Perfect for families or those celebrating the holiday in London, this cruise combines the joy of Christmas with the spectacle of the city’s landmarks. The fully-heated saloon ensures comfort, and the open-air upper deck offers fantastic views of Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral lit up for the season. The meal includes roast turkey, stuffing, and other holiday favorites, making it a memorable way to spend Christmas Day.
Guests say, “Great activity to do on Christmas Day, food was great and the scenery was fantastic,” which speaks to the unique holiday magic this experience offers. Keep in mind, availability is seasonal and booking early is advised.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable Christmas tradition that combines festive cheer with stunning river views and a hearty holiday feast.
5. Cotswolds Countryside Tour by Coach: Villages, Views, and Lunch
Number 5 takes you out of London and into the picturesque Cotswolds, where historic villages and rolling countryside await. For about $177, this full-day coach tour offers a chance to experience authentic rural England, complete with guided exploration and a cozy country inn lunch.
The tour includes stops at Burford, known as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds,” Stow-on-the-Wold, famed for its antique shops and stone architecture, and Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds” for its charming bridges and waterways. Lunch is included in a traditional country inn, providing a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy hearty local fare.
What sets this apart is the opportunity to see some of England’s most photogenic villages, with plenty of time for photos and wandering. The reviews note that while the tour is well-organized, some found the time at each stop a bit limited, but overall, it’s a delightful escape from the city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a full day of scenic charm, quaint architecture, and a relaxed countryside lunch.
6. London: Notting Hill Local Tour with Breakfast & Lunch
Finally, the Notting Hill Local Tour offers a slice of London life, combining a guided walk with breakfast and lunch in this colorful neighborhood. For about $149, you’ll explore secret locations like Golborne Road, Portobello Road (avoiding the peak crowds), and Holland Park’s backstreets.
This tour is geared toward travelers who want an authentic, local experience. You’ll visit off-the-tourist-path cafes and boutiques, learn about the area’s racial history, and enjoy a casual meal with tips for living like a local. The itinerary includes a guided walk through Holland Park, a visit to Trellick Tower, and a stop for breakfast and lunch, making it a full day of discovery.
Reviews are limited, but the focus on secret spots and local tips makes this ideal for those wanting a genuine neighborhood experience rather than a typical sightseeing tour.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in local culture, hidden corners, and a relaxed pace in one of London’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in London
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you love combining sightseeing and a meal, the Thames river cruise offers a unique view of London’s landmarks. For a lively, music-filled atmosphere, the Hard Rock Cafe is hard to beat, especially for fans of rock history or those seeking a fun, no-fuss meal.
If you prefer a countryside escape, the Cotswolds tour provides a full day of charming villages and scenic views. For a festive holiday twist, the Christmas Thames cruise is perfect during winter, while the Notting Hill tour is great for those who want to experience local life and secret spots.
Remember to book early for popular experiences, especially holiday cruises or special events. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking or standing—and your preference for scenery, lively atmospheres, or culture.
London offers an impressive array of lunchtime options that can turn a simple meal into a highlight of your trip. Whether you want to cruise past historic landmarks, indulge in classic American comfort food, explore scenic villages, or learn about local neighborhoods, there’s a perfect fit for every type of traveler. Booking ahead can ensure you get your preferred experience, so plan now and enjoy a memorable midday in the heart of England’s capital.