The Royal River Thames, from the Cotswolds to London
Welcome to the essential guide to places to visit, things to do, accommodation and events along the Royal River Thames and Thames Path National Trail, providing great experiences, stretching from Lechlade in Gloucestershire, through London with its iconic views and out to the sea.
Why not take this opportunity to take a look through the website and discover great places to visit and things to do for future days out and short breaks. Explore before you plan your visit.
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Murder comes to Marlow!
A gripping new cosy crime and mystery series 'The Marlow Murder Club', by Robert Thorogood, the creator of the hit TV series Death in Paradise, sets a series of murders in and around Marlow. Watch out for the TV series, airing 6 and & March, 2024 at 8pm Drama and UKTV Play.
Take a look at the other Murder TV series Marlow connections.
A great way to experience the river Thames is by boat, and for those looking for something more active, there's plenty of choice: try kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, or why not have a go at punting? Or for something a little easier what about a rowing boat or a self-drive cruiser. You can hire the boats by the hour, half day or day from various locations from Oxford to London. Read more about hiring a boat here, there's all the information you need to hire a boat, canoe, kayak, paddleboard or water bike on the River Thames.
For those planning days out, short breaks or staycations, we have provided some inspiration ‘Escape the Everyday along the Thames’.
The Thames offers so many outdoor experiences from boating and watersports to walking the Thames Path National Trail and wonderful gardens. Take a look at the Things To Do section.
Explore the Thames Valley with GWR and take a look at the Rail Trails we've put together to inspire a walk along the Thames Path National Trail.
Enjoy a short break or day out along the River Thames, a walk along the Thames Path National Trail, or choose a circular walk that starts from the river bank. Stop off at one of the great riverside pubs and hotels along the way, and refresh yourself with a drink or sample locally sourced meals.
Take to the water on a pleasure cruise along the Thames and see the sights, trips are available from London, Runnymede, Windsor, Reading, Henley and Oxford. Read more about Boat trips on the Thames and choose from Wildlife cruises, comedy nights, Sundowner cruises and many more.
Why not plan your escape for a short break, family holiday along the Thames in 2023. There’s some lovely riverside hotels on the website or explore the river on one of the wide variety of boating holidays on offer. We've created a selection of holiday ideas to inspire you.
Are you thinking about buying…
Are you thinking about buying your own boat? Henley Boat Club 'Membership Boating' is the easy way to take to the river it gives you freedom to enjoy a choice of boats with none of the cost or hassle of ownership. Our ‘Owning a boat on the River Thames’ section has useful information including a guide to buying a pre-owned boat which will help you through the process.
Highlights
Highlights
Cliveden
Cliveden is one of the finest five red star luxury hotels, set in 376 acres of National Trust…
Alexandra Gardens
Plans to create a riverside garden in this area date from 1893 although the possibilities must have…
National Trust Runnymede
Runnymede Memorials Runnymede is believed to date back to Saxon times - much earlier than…
Henley Rowing Experiences
JUST as a visit to Egypt wouldn’t be complete without seeing the pyramids, so a visit along the…
Eton College Dorney Lake
Open to the public all year round, come and experience the awe inspiring 2,200m Olympic Standard…
Penton Hook Marina
Set in 80 acres and with 575 berths, Penton Hook is Britain's largest inland marina.
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
The jewel in the Royal Borough's crown, Windsor and Royal Borough Museum is a family friendly…
Highlights
Longridge Camping
We have accommodation to suit everyone, whether you like to sleep under the stars or wrapped up in…
Crowne Plaza Reading East
Exceptional new, fully refurbished, 4 Silver Star, Crowne Plaza Reading East, near the River…
Novotel Reading Centre Hotel
Perfectly situated in the heart of the town. The guests can choose from executive and superior…
Cliveden
Cliveden is one of the finest five red star luxury hotels, set in 376 acres of National Trust…
Highlights
Sindhu by Atul Kochhar
Sindhu by Atul Kochhar is the latest venture by the Michelin-starred chef and will offer diners the…
The Bull Inn, Sonning-on-Thames
A historic Tudor pub, originally called Church House, the inn provided accommodation for pilgrims…
Caprice at Crowne Plaza Reading East
Sat within the new, fully refurbished, 4 Silver Star Crowne Plaza Reading East, the 2 AA Rosette…
The Anchor
The Anchor pub is a 400+ year old Inn that boasts numerous low oak ship beams, wood burning stove…
Highlights
Thames Path National Trail Reading to Lower Shiplake - Reading Walks Festival
A fantastic walk from Reading to Lower Shiplake, as part of the Reading Walks Festival, along the…
Running4Women Windsor 10K
The Running4Women Windsor 10K is an all-inclusive event for runners of all levels from club runners…
Marlow Santa Fun Run
Each year the sight of hundreds of Santas running and walking 5km (3 miles) around the streets of…
Regatta for the Disabled
Regatta for the Disabled is a wonderful opportunity for children and adults with a disability to…
Highlights
Richmond upon Thames
Richmond possesses a timeless charm more akin to a village than a town. Henry VII named Richmond…
Oxfordshire
Visit Oxfordshire and discover one of the most beautiful English counties, with the most inspiring…
Hamptons
Consisting of the present day villages of Hampton, Hampton Hill and Hampton Wick.
Molesey
East Molesey is the point at which the Rivers Mole and Thames meet. It is situated opposite the…
Inspire Me
Thames Path National Trail
n celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the foundation of the Thames Path National Trail, the Ramblers Association took on the massive feat of walking the entire Thames Path National Trail from the source of the Thames to the Barrier in London. This short film shows the natural beauty of the journey of this glorious riverside trail.