10 Boat Bars You Need To Visit This Summer

Alfred Le Roy is a cute canal boat with intimate booths, indulgent cheese and charcuterie boards and a supply of booze so plentiful, you'll never want to dock at dry land again. On Saturdays, this bobbing bar sets sail for an unmissable canal cruise, featuring lots of special sips, like the tantalizing toffee apple sour. With tickets from just £10, Alfred Le Roy is London's answer to the perfect weekend getaway.

The London Shell Co is beautiful floating restaurant residing on the picturesque Regent's Canal, and we have nothing but good things to say about it. It's home to a luxurious five-course lunch that's packed with seasonal seafood, and if you want you can pair each dish with a glass of wine. Bringing you past London Zoo, Primrose Hill's mansions and up towards Camden, it's an experience and a half.

Jam out to your dream playlist at the Silent Sounds Boat Party; a silent disco that brings you past London's most iconic landmarks. The scenery from the open-air deck is the ideal backdrop for Instagram (it's sure to make up for that group shot in the club toilet that you posted last weekend). And with three DJs to tune into, and a bar on both decks, one trip down the Thames certainly won't be enough.

A cruise dedicated to the nation's favourite spirit? That's right folks, London Gin Cruise is setting sail and there's plenty of themed treats to discover onboard. This celebration of all things gin includes a masterclass, tapas to complement the tipples and a goody bag containing limited edition miniatures and copa glasses. With 15 artisan varieties to challenge your palate, and music to help you rejoice in the name of gin, diehard fans of this light spirit will not be disappointed

You'll find Barge East at the edge of the gorgeous Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, housing an outdoor terrace for passengers to soak up the views with a drink in hand. This striking bar and restaurant boasts a diverse menu full of global dishes, including vegan options like the garlic oyster mushrooms with creamy polenta. And if you find this rustic party boat too charming to leave, then why not grab a seat at one of their bottomless brunches.

Down tools and embark on a cosy, candlelit affair at Under The Stars. Settle down in this relaxed 1920s-style watercraft, and make the most of their pocket-friendly cocktails all while travelling the world (without moving a muscle) with their international tapas. Need something a little sturdier to help you soak up that last Charlie Chaplin cocktail? Set your sights on a dish from the knock-out pizza menu.

Quaint, inviting and oh-so adorable, this boat cafe is a river-bound gem. With the culmination of a winning menu, local beers and a large upper deck, it struggles to keep punters at bay, often staying open until 1am on the weekends. The Penny is also available for hire if you're planning a ridiculously over the top birthday party.

A boat that's picture-perfect, both on the inside and out? Darcie & May Green are a barge duo with eye-catching exteriors, housing an all-day Australian menu featuring an award-winning banana bread sandwich that's just too good to miss out on. This two-storey wonder also has an open-air upper deck perfect for sipping seasonal cocktails and a bottomless option for those hardcore brunchers out there.

When it comes to London, we've seen it all, until now that is. A first in the UK, BBQ Boats let you play both the captain and the chef. You and up to nine friends will be let loose to steer your way around Canary Wharf, all while you make the most of the BBQ centerpiece. Probably one of the most rewarding boat trips you can partake in, this team effort is sure to bring the gang closer together.

Bristol Craft Beer Experience has the ultimate ride in store for any budding beer enthusiast. This five-hour expedition involves crisp pints, a tasting tour of Moor Brewery and a decadent cheese platter. With the chance to discover your new favourite brew and get a lifetime supply of beer-related facts under your belt, you'd be mad to miss the boat on this tipsy tour. Not fussed about going home after? There's also 15% off food and 10% off drinks all evening after the tour.