The Thames Murders - Murder Mystery Quest on London's South Bank
The Thames Murders is a self-guided murder mystery quest along London's South Bank from Westminster to Tower Bridge. What to expect, who it's for, and how to play.
Looking for a murder mystery in London that actually gets you walking and exploring? The Thames Murders is a self-guided city quest along the South Bank of the Thames - from Westminster to Tower Bridge - where you and your team piece together a fictional crime while discovering some of London’s best riverside landmarks.
Here’s what the quest is, who it’s for, and how to make the most of it.
What Is The Thames Murders?
The Thames Murders is a mobile city quest and murder mystery. A body is pulled from the river near Westminster; the only lead is a cryptic note that sends you east along the Thames. Using your phone and the Cluenaverse app, you follow the trail past the London Eye, along the South Bank, through Borough Market and towards Tower Bridge, decoding clues and narrowing down the killer at each stop.
The experience is self-guided: you start when you like, walk at your own pace, and pause whenever you want for a coffee or a bite. No fixed start time, no actors - just you, your team, and the story on your phone.
Why Do a Murder Mystery on the South Bank?
The South Bank is one of London’s most popular stretches for a walk: iconic views, street performers, markets, and a mix of culture and history. A murder mystery quest gives that walk a clear goal and a shared story. You’re not just sightseeing - you’re investigating, and the locations become part of the puzzle.
It’s also an easy sell for groups. Friends, families (ages 12+), or couples looking for a different date idea in London get a structured activity that works in most weather and doesn’t require booking a specific slot.
How Long Does It Take?
The Thames Murders typically takes 2-2.5 hours if you move at a steady pace. You can stretch it to a half-day by pausing at the South Bank’s cafés, the book market, or Borough Market. The app saves your progress, so you can also split it over two visits if you prefer.
Who Is It For?
- Friends - A different way to spend an afternoon or evening along the river.
- Families - Suitable for ages 12+; everyone can contribute to clues and decisions.
- Couples - A fun, active date that combines a mystery with a riverside walk.
- Visitors to London - See major sights (Westminster, London Eye, Tower Bridge) while playing a game.
No prior knowledge of London or of murder mysteries is required. The app guides you from location to location and explains what you need to do.
What You Need to Play
Each player should join on their own phone with the Cluenaverse app. Bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The route is mostly flat and step-free in the main walking sections. Teams of 2-6 players work well.
Ready to Play?
The Thames Murders is one of several London city quests from Cluenaverse. If you like the idea of a murder mystery on the South Bank with no fixed start time and a route that takes in Westminster to Tower Bridge, check out the full quest details and buy your quest here.