Floating restaurants offer a unique dining experience, combining the pleasure of a meal with the tranquility of being on water. The United Kingdom, with its rich maritime heritage and picturesque waterways, is home to a variety of exceptional floating restaurants. From historic ships turned into gourmet dining venues to modern boats offering panoramic views, these establishments provide unforgettable culinary experiences. Here’s an in-depth look at the top ten floating restaurants in the UK.

1. The Glass Room, London

Overview: The Glass Room, operated by Bateaux London, offers a luxurious dining experience on the River Thames. Known for its panoramic glass walls, this boat provides stunning views of London’s iconic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.

Cuisine: The menu features contemporary British cuisine with seasonal ingredients. Expect dishes like pan-seared sea bass, roasted lamb rump, and delectable desserts like chocolate fondant.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The elegant decor and live music enhance the dining experience, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
• Special Features: The Glass Room offers lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea cruises, each with a unique menu and route along the Thames.

Must-Try: Their afternoon tea cruise, featuring a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries, is a highlight.

2. Fingal, Edinburgh

Overview: Fingal is a luxury floating hotel and restaurant berthed in the historic Port of Leith. Originally a lighthouse tender, this beautifully restored ship offers an exceptional dining experience aboard its onboard restaurant.

Cuisine: The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar serves a refined menu that emphasizes Scottish produce. Signature dishes include Shetland scallops, Highland venison, and hand-dived Orkney scallops.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The restaurant features art deco-inspired interiors, with elegant furnishings and panoramic views of the harbor.
• Special Features: Fingal offers afternoon tea, a la carte dining, and a tasting menu that showcases the best of Scottish cuisine.

Must-Try: The tasting menu, paired with a selection of fine wines, provides an exquisite journey through Scotland’s culinary landscape.

3. HMS Belfast, London

Overview: HMS Belfast, a historic Royal Navy cruiser permanently moored on the River Thames, offers a unique dining experience aboard one of the most significant surviving Second World War Royal Navy warships.

Cuisine: The onboard restaurant serves a menu of modern British dishes. Highlights include smoked salmon, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, and traditional fish and chips.

Experience:

• Ambiance: Dining aboard HMS Belfast is a step back in time, with authentic naval decor and a view of London’s bustling river.
• Special Features: Guests can explore the ship’s nine decks, including the gun turrets and engine rooms, before or after their meal.

Must-Try: The traditional afternoon tea, complete with a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and scones, is a delightful treat.

4. The Waterside Bistro, Norfolk

Overview: Located on a charming floating pontoon on the River Bure, The Waterside Bistro in Norfolk offers a serene dining experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads.

Cuisine: The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on seafood. Popular dishes include Norfolk crab, grilled sea bass, and homemade fish pie.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The relaxed, informal atmosphere and beautiful river views make it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal.
• Special Features: The bistro offers boat hire packages, allowing diners to explore the Broads before enjoying their meal.

Must-Try: The Norfolk crab, sourced from local waters, is a standout dish that showcases the region’s best seafood.

5. The Floating Grace, Liverpool

Overview: The Floating Grace is Liverpool’s only floating restaurant, offering scenic dining cruises along the city’s historic docks. The boat is named after the three famous Graces on Liverpool’s waterfront: The Royal Liver Building, The Cunard Building, and The Port of Liverpool Building.

Cuisine: The menu features traditional British dishes with a contemporary twist. Expect offerings like lamb shank, chicken supreme, and a variety of desserts.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The Floating Grace offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with views of Liverpool’s iconic waterfront.
• Special Features: The restaurant offers lunch, dinner, and Sunday roast cruises, each providing a unique perspective of the city’s maritime heritage.

Must-Try: The Sunday roast cruise, featuring tender meats, roast potatoes, and all the trimmings, is a local favorite.

6. The Boat House, Chester

Overview: The Boat House in Chester is a charming floating restaurant moored on the River Dee. Known for its relaxed ambiance and beautiful riverside views, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Cuisine: The menu offers a mix of British and international dishes. Highlights include slow-cooked pork belly, beer-battered haddock, and a selection of gourmet burgers.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The casual, friendly atmosphere and picturesque setting make it an ideal place for a relaxed meal.
• Special Features: The Boat House has a floating beer garden, perfect for enjoying a drink while taking in the views of the river.

Must-Try: The slow-cooked pork belly, served with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich gravy, is a hearty and satisfying choice.

7. The Narrowboat, Skipton

Overview: The Narrowboat in Skipton is a floating restaurant that cruises along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. It offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales.

Cuisine: The menu features hearty British fare, with dishes like steak and ale pie, fish and chips, and locally sourced meats.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The cozy, intimate setting and scenic canal views create a charming and relaxing dining experience.
• Special Features: The Narrowboat offers themed cruises, including afternoon tea and Sunday lunch cruises.

Must-Try: The steak and ale pie, made with tender beef and rich gravy encased in a flaky pastry, is a classic British comfort food.

8. The Boat Inn, Lichfield

Overview: The Boat Inn, located on the Trent and Mersey Canal near Lichfield, offers a unique dining experience on a beautifully restored narrowboat. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent food.

Cuisine: The menu emphasizes local ingredients and traditional British dishes. Popular choices include slow-roasted lamb shoulder, grilled salmon, and a variety of homemade desserts.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The rustic, homely interior and peaceful canal setting make it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal.
• Special Features: The Boat Inn offers special event cruises, including live music and themed dining experiences.

Must-Try: The slow-roasted lamb shoulder, served with seasonal vegetables and mint sauce, is a tender and flavorful dish.

9. The Barge, London

Overview: The Barge, located on the Regents Canal in London, offers a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience on a converted barge. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere and scenic canal views.

Cuisine: The menu features a variety of international dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Highlights include Mediterranean-inspired tapas, gourmet burgers, and vegetarian options.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The lively, informal atmosphere and beautiful setting make it a great place to unwind with friends and family.
• Special Features: The Barge offers live music and entertainment on select evenings, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Must-Try: The Mediterranean tapas, featuring a selection of small plates like grilled halloumi, stuffed peppers, and garlic prawns, is perfect for sharing.

10. The Folly, Oxford

Overview: The Folly is a floating restaurant located on the River Thames in Oxford. Known for its elegant ambiance and stunning river views, it offers a memorable dining experience in a historic city.

Cuisine: The menu showcases contemporary British cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include pan-fried duck breast, roasted cod, and a variety of vegetarian options.

Experience:

• Ambiance: The stylish, refined interior and scenic setting make it a popular choice for special occasions and romantic dinners.
• Special Features: The Folly offers punting and dining packages, allowing guests to explore the river before enjoying their meal.

Must-Try: The pan-fried duck breast, served with seasonal vegetables and a rich red wine sauce, is a standout dish.

Conclusion

Floating restaurants in the UK offer a unique and memorable dining experience, combining excellent cuisine with the tranquil beauty of the country’s waterways. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious dinner cruise on the Thames, a historic meal aboard a WWII ship, or a relaxed lunch on a charming canal boat, there’s a floating restaurant to suit every taste and occasion.

These top ten floating restaurants showcase the diversity and quality of dining options available on the water, each with its own distinct charm and culinary offerings. From the elegant ambiance of The Glass Room in London to the rustic charm of The Boat Inn in Lichfield, these establishments provide a perfect setting for unforgettable meals.

So next time you’re looking for a unique dining experience, consider one of these top floating restaurants in the UK. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply looking for a new and exciting way to dine, these floating venues promise a dining experience that goes beyond the