The Harpy Houseboat
10 guests
-
4 bedrooms, 5 beds
2 bathrooms
+1 extra toilet
sq/ft
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Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
This has got to be one of the most amazing views in London. Moored near Tower Bridge on the Thames’ south bank, this stunning home is the former 'HMS Harpy’. Once an Edwardian base for customs and excise officers, and a landing stage for King George V, it’s now a unique and beautifully maintained floating home. The oldest and one of the largest homes on the river, The Harpy is unlike purpose-built houseboats – all the cabins are above water level with river views. History fans and nautical nuts will have plenty to get their teeth into, those interested in luxury river living will appreciate the opportunity to sit out on deck, and if vintage furniture is your thing you'll be able to explore pieces from the 1920s, '30s, and '50s. The dining table was even designed for Winston Churchill's home, Chartwell. We love the vast living space on the upper deck – it's bright, comfortable, and full of character. Bedrooms and bathrooms are nostalgic and the kitchen is well fitted out for cooking onboard. There's mains electricity, obviously, as well as mains gas for heating and cooking, and filtered mains water. All the mod cons are present too, from... Wifi and Sky Q TV to gate entry phones and Sonos. So well-known that it's been featured in several movies (most notably A Fish Called Wanda), a stay here is an all-round incredible experience and one you'll be talking about for years to come.
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Ask the host anything
Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
What to expect
Highlights
Explore London from the riverbank beside your home
Take in unrivalled views of Tower Bridge
Spend lazy days out on the deck
Explore the houseboat's fascinating history
Enjoy breakfast in bed with a view like no other
Spread out in the spectacular living space
Admire the boat's quirky features
Send a few emails from the captain's desk
Fling open the doors for a night to remember
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
Most of the river's movement is cushioned but it may make people with seasickness a little uncomfortable
The ramp down to the boat is very secure but be aware that it's steep
The closest Underground stations are ten minutes walk away: London Bridge to the west or Bermondsey to the east
The single beds in the fourth cabin can be zip linked together to form one large bed – let the host know
If you're travelling with children, there's a cot and high chair available
There's a sofa bed in the living room and one in the master bedroom increasing the capacity to ten guests
The Harpy has two secure underground parking spaces in Scotts Sufferance Wharf, Mill Street – just ask the host if you would like to use one
About this stay
Amenities
Outdoor seating
Laptop friendly workspace
Wi-fi
Parking available
Washing machine
Dryer
Balcony
Patio / terrace
Bedrooms & bathrooms
4 bedrooms, 5 beds
2 bathrooms, 1 additional toilet
Local guide
About Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge is one of London’s most recognisable landmarks. It was opened in 1894 and is Victorian architecture at its finest, acquiring Grade I listed status from English Heritage. The Tower Bridge area sits between London Bridge (home to famous Borough Market) and Bermondsey, another foodie destination and both are within easy walking distance, as is nearby Tate Modern, Contemporary Art's London cathedral. The Shad Thames area - all cobbled...
Explore the area
Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts
Get creative at The Doodle Bar
An events space in Battersea where people have the freedom to enjoy a good scribble, play a game of ping pong and enjoy some street food. A versatile arts space for creativity.
Try the street food at Maltby Street Market
Street markets are a big part of London's current gastronomic scene. Maltby street market is not overwhelming with people and leaves space for an original and genuine experience.
Dine with a View at Cantina Del Ponte
Enjoy delicious Italian food and great service while taking in the lovely view of Tower Bridge from the rustic terrace of this trattoria-style restaurant.
Dine with Tower Bridge Views
Butlers Wharf Chop House offers a lovely dining experience with a menu of chophouse classics, steaks, and nostalgic British recipes. Enjoy the great atmosphere and efficient, friendly service while taking in stunning views of Tower Bridge.
Dine at Le Pont de la Tour
An elegant, 19th-century former tea warehouse alongside Tower Bridge serving classic French cuisine. Enjoy impeccable service, delicious food, and breathtaking views of the Thames and Tower Bridge.
Try some real ale at The Gregorian
While this mock-Tudor pub is not the most show-stopping pub we've ever visited, there's friendly service and 8 hand pumps so real ale is very much the order of the day.
Take a break at Potters Fields Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of London at this beautiful park near Tower Bridge. Enjoy sweeping river views and a peaceful atmosphere – it's a great spot for a picnic.
Walk across the iconic Tower Bridge
Capture stunning views of London, walk across a cinematic and historical legacy, and marvel at the impressive Victorian engineering and art. Don't miss the behind-the-scenes access to the original lifting machinery.
Explore the Tower Bridge Engine Rooms
Discover the 19th-century mechanism, walk across the glass-bottomed walkway, and delve into the original operation of the bridge in the engine rooms. A wonderful, informative experience for all ages.
Stroll along Butler's Wharf Pier
Relax and enjoy the stunning views of Tower Bridge and the city skyline from this historic pier. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or capturing postcard-worthy photos.
Get around
Airport
London City
29 min
Heathrow
1 hr 9 min
London Gatwick
1 hr 46 min
Train station
Wapping
18 min
Bus stop
Tobacco Dock (Stop J)
15 min
Local shops & services
Supermarket
15 min
Cafe
16 min
Pharmacy
16 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Children welcome (1-12 years)
Infants welcome (under 12 months)
No pets
No parties or events
No smoking
Good to know
Arrival from 16:00
Departure before 11:00
Wifi
No air con
Cancellation policy
Up until
24
hours
Cancel at least 24 hours before your check-in date for a full refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 24 hours away.
Host
This home is managed by Andrew
This home is managed directly by its owner who will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Andrew has owned The Harpy with his wife Julie, since 1981. They moved on board whilst developing the adjoining award-winning New Concordia Wharf and China Wharf buildings. The Harpy was initially their London home and office, then just the office. Since a major re-fit in 2005, it has reverted to a home once again. Andrew and Julie now spend more time at their family home in Dorset, making The Harpy available for short lets.
This home is a Plum Guide Award winner.
- Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.
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- Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
- Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
- Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
- Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.