Tucked beside Westminster Bridge in the shadow of Big Ben, Westminster Millennium Pier is one of the busiest boarding points on the River Thames. From here a steady stream of boats sets off to carry visitors and commuters up and down the river. The pier was built as part of a wider scheme to improve the river for the year 2000, paid for by a national millennium fund. It was one of several new piers opened along the Thames at that time. It sits on the north bank of the river, on the Victoria Embankment, right beside the bridge and close to the Houses of Parliament. The clock tower of Big Ben rises just behind it. A bronze statue of the ancient British queen Boudicca, driving her chariot, stands at the foot of the bridge above the pier. It is a favourite landmark for those waiting to board. From the pier, fast river buses run downstream towards the City, the Tower and Greenwich, while leisure cruises and sightseeing boats also set off here. Some services run upstream towards Kew and Hampton Court. The pier is well placed for many of central London's sights, with Parliament, the abbey and the wartime Cabinet rooms close by on one bank, and the London Eye and aquarium across the bridge. It is rarely quiet. Travelling by river offers a different view of the capital, gliding past landmarks that line both banks. The pier is the most popular starting point for such trips. It lies on the Victoria Embankment beside Westminster Bridge, in the heart of Westminster. Travelling by water lets visitors avoid the crowded streets and see the city from a fresh angle, gliding past its riverside landmarks. The pier connects with others up and down the Thames. It is well served by the nearby Underground station and by the buses that cross Westminster Bridge. Boats run frequently through the day, more often in the busy summer season.

Type: Tourist Attraction

Address: Victoria Embankment, London, United Kingdom, SW1A 2JH