The river has played a central role in the development of London and the Thames Estuary corridor. Likewise, human interaction with the river has had an impact on its appearance. This can be seen through the buildings, industry, historic landmarks, open space and the river channel itself. The original Thames followed a wide, meandering course. Today, the river channel is often restricted by developments and flood defence structures. In some parts of London the original river used to flow 100 metres behind the channel we see today.

In its passage to the sea, the Thames has many different landscape characters. Through the commercial centre of the City, it is hemmed in by offices, residential development and major historic landmarks. East of Tower Bridge, around London's Docklands, the character of the Thames has changed from docks and port-related buildings, to new commercial and residential uses.

Further downstream beyond the Thames Barrier, a significant landscape feature itself, the Thames becomes gradually wider and flows through low-lying and generally flat, open marshland.

At Tilbury the working character of the Thames returns, with industry and port related activities defining its appearance. From Tilbury Fort to the sea, the Thames becomes wider still, forming the recognisable shape of an estuary. On the south bank it moves past Cliffe Marshes, an area of international importance for nature conservation. Finally, before reaching the North Sea the Thames flows past the popular beaches and coastal resorts of Canvey Island and Southend on Sea.

The character of the river landscape will change dramatically in the next 15 years as London is expected to grow by 700,000 people. 1 in 3 people predicted to move to London in the next 15 years will work in the Thames Gateway area - the area east of Tower Bridge along the Thames. This development will be the equivalent of building a new city the size of Cardiff!