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River Thames has played pivotal role as far as the development of London from its nascent stage to a city of stupendous dimension is concerned. In the medieval past, London was one of the most famous cities, and it amassed its riches from the ships, which lay anchor at the London Port.
Today, if you take a leisurely stroll in any of the roads besides the river, you will come across intriguing street names like Jamaica Road, East Indies Docks etc. which signify the names of the countries from where the ships came.
The river today is much more used than it ever was, primarily for transport and recreation. River Thames is a river of pleasure. The popularity of river Thames as a source of leisure and recreation dates back to the Victorian era and the concept of pleasure cruises was a distinctly Victorian invention.
You will be surprised to know that a staggering 19,000 boats are licensed to ply on the Thames River. Whether you travel up or down the river in any of London's many river cruises, you are guaranteed of a breathtaking trip. A bewildering array of cruises are available ranging from city cruises, catamaran cruises, circular cruises etc. to name just a few.
Take for instance, the catamaran cruises, which offer both circular as well as point to point trips. The circular cruises on the other hand depart from the Embankment pier to St. Katherine's pier with halts at several places en-route and you have the opportunity to explore the tourist landmarks of the concerned places.
The water sport of Rowing which became very popular in the early 1800's meant that rowing clubs started mushrooming in and around London's Thames river and Regattas became a much sought after event. The renowned Henely Regatta which dates back to 1839 is one of the most popular events in UK which is held every year in the month of July. Apart from rowing, punting and sailing too have became popular hobby sport as far as river Thames is concerned.
The threat to London is not the Thames River. Instead it is the sea. From times immemorial, tidal waves and gusty winds have made the sea gush up to the estuary which has caused perennial flooding of the low lying areas of London. With a view to counter the threat perception, the Thames River Embankment has been built which is a good 3 meters deeper than what it was originally. Needless to say, the embankment is an extraordinary marvel of engineering and well worth a visit.
Another place worth visiting is the rather interesting River and Rowing Museum located at Henley-on-Thames. There is a museum with a fine collection of historic artifacts. You will be mesmerized by the innovative manner in which the museum portrays the historical significance of River Thames and the evolution of the sport of Rowing.
Although the museum showcases the significance of Henley and not London as such, yet it's worth every penny visiting the Rowing Museum. The presentation of River Thames through a video show which in fact was recorded aerially from a helicopter familiarizes visitors with river Thames from its source to the sea.
The contribution of River Thames to British folklore is immense and innumerable writers, poets and musicians have depicted the manifold features of this great river through their work of art, be it novels, short stories, poems and songs.
What is life without the sublime and finer things? River Thames has served as the platform for some of history's most astonishing and grandiose watery shows. One of the most enduring river festivals is the Dogget's Race, which is celebrated even now by the boatmen of river Thames in honor of Thames Doggett who had instituted this race, way back in the year 1751. The race is held every year on 1st August.
All said and done, the Thames is regarded as a "String of Pearls" and this is particularly so because of the fact that there are rows after rows of regal buildings and stately churches by the banks of River Thames. The emperors and rulers built their castles and forts along the riverbank; many of them can be visited even today.
6London offers tours to London that cover the tourist attractions of London in detail. You can see all the popular sights as well as others of your choice on tours to London, with 6London.
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