Thames

A boat ride on the River Thames reveals a real spectacle of sights, winding out of London via some of the capital’s most magnificent attractions - the Houses of Parliament, Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens. 

But as you venture further west, new spectacles unfold - tranquil wildlife havens, royal residences and the thriving villages and towns that have grown up beside England’s most recognisable river. There’s a whole list of places you’ll want to get off and explore, Windsor, Marlow, Henley-on-Thames, Reading… and let’s not forget Legoland. It’s also a great jumping off point for exploring the Oxfordshire countryside, and the esteemed university city of Oxford. 

Did you know? ‘Frost Fairs’ were held on the Thames when it froze in winter, with drinking, dancing and lots of revelry. The last was held in 1814 - the river is now too fast-flowing to freeze. 

The Thames was an important trade route for centuries - as far back as the Romans - but today it’s more geared towards leisure. From guided boat tours to world-famous regattas including the Henley Royal Regatta.

As you sit in your straw boater hat, rowing downstream in search of a delightful picnic spot, spare a thought for those who worked the river before a sewage system was introduced after the The Great Stink of 1858.

Originating as a gentle trickle in the Cotswolds, the 210-mile river passes through 3 National Landscapes. It even has a National Trail along its entirety: the Thames Path. Great for long-distance hikers and bikers in search of an active holiday as well as day-trippers who fancy a pleasant stroll. It won’t take you long to see why so many artists and writers, including Kenneth Grahame who wrote classic children’s book The Wind in the Willows, have been inspired by this extra special waterway. 

Take a look at these listings below for more information on the Thames area, and take a look at See & Do for other attractions, entertainment and actitivies. You can also visit www.visitthames.co.uk.