Top 6 places to enjoy a River Thames break
Steeped in history, the River Thames offers a fascinating way to explore the Beautiful South of England. And it's no surprise that the UK's longest River spans no less than six counties! We take a tour of our six favourite places on the River Thames, offering views, fine-dining and of course, boating heaven!
Hire a cruiser with Rainbow Cruisers and visit the historic Ham House. Built in 1610 and frequently visited by Oliver Cromwell, Ham House invites you to celebrate its 400th anniversary in 2010. Throughout the year staff and volunteers will reveal their favourite features of the house. Exhibition opens 13th March 2010.
2. Windsor, Berkshire
The Heritage Trail takes you right across the River Thames from Windsor Castle to Eton College, revealing 1,000 years of history. Cobbled streets, 17th century buildings, William Shakespeare, executions, cock fighting and frequent visits by Charles II are just some of the compelling reasons to explore the trail.
Moving away from Windsor, near Maidenhead, you'll find good food and views at the recently re-furbished, Boulters Restaurant and Bar. Located on an island in the midst of outstanding natural beauty, it offers both modern British cuisine and rustic pub food. Tel: 01628 621291 for details.
If you plan to stay overnight, try the cosy Riverbank Cottage at nearby Cookham. An intimate hideaway, Riverbank's terraced-garden is a great place to enjoy tea just a stone's throw from the water's edge.
3. Marlow, Buckinghamshire
The handsome suspension bridge is just one of the unforgettable views in Marlow. And you'll find lots more enviable views at Macdonald Compleat Angler. The hotel has no less than two award-winning restaurants, so why not take advantage of their winter sale and get dinner for just £15.
Plan your stay around the Marlow Regatta (Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th June 2010) for added interest, or if you take an interest in rowing, organise your stay around the Henley Regatta (30 June - 4 July 2010). For a great walk in the area see our Brunel's Bridge walking guide.
4. Reading, Berkshire
Combine retail therapy with riverside relaxation in Reading. The Oracle shopping centre houses high street brands and department stores, including House of Fraser, under one roof.
Relax the next day with a visit to Basildon Park, a National Trust property right on Reading's doorstep - they have a calendar of events to inspire you.
A walk away from the Centre, yet close to the River Thames, is the 4 star hotel Crown Plaza Reading.
5. Moulsford, Oxfordshire
Indulge yourself in gleaming wood and craftsmanship by hiring a boat from Henley Sales and Charter's classic Boat Collection. With at least nine boats to choose from, including the newly refitted New Venture, you can enjoy a a timeless treasure oozing with charm. Hire bases include the Beetle & Wedge in Moulsford, Oxfordshire. For details contact 01491 578870 or email gillian@hscboats.co.uk
Gleaming spires await you when you take a sightseeing tour or dining cruise with Oxford River Cruises. Here you can explore Oxford's Port Meadow, a landscape which inspired the likes of Lewis Carroll. Trips run from March 2010.
6. Lechlade, Gloucestershire
Often described as the ‘rural' River Thames, the stretch of the upper Thames that flows through Lechlade is perfect for exploring the Cotswolds and Oxford. Really relax and unwind on board a cruiser from Cotswold Boat Hire and avoid the VAT increase. Cruisers sleep up to 6 people. Telephone 01793 727083 for their new brochure. Boats available for hire from April 2010.
See more companies offering cruisers for hire.