Simon Calder on the River Thames
Well known travel writer and journalist Simon Calder was introduced to the delights of the River Thames last month when he spent a day filming a piece for the Enjoy England website.
Take a look at this fabulous mini film about the River Thames! Click here for a quick link to the Enjoy England website, then click on box 1 for England TV and go to episode 5 to view the River Thames film.
Simon Calder’s day on the River Thames included a number of different activities, attractions and locations along this beautiful river. So why not follow in his footsteps and get out on the Thames yourself?
Simon started his day at The Upper Thames Rowing Club
The UTRC was founded in 1963 and occupies an absolutely superb location on the River Thames in Henley, half way down the world famous Royal Regatta course. Whether you are new to rowing, seeking the next challenge of your rowing career or would simply enjoy training in one of the world's most prestigious rowing environments, the UTRC is open to everyone. For more information visit www.utrc.org.uk.
He then made his way to Cliveden House
This grand stately home has been turned into one of the world’s finest luxury hotels, surrounded by magnificent formal gardens and parkland.
The house itself is a grand Italianate mansion with a palpable sense of history. For over three centuries it has been dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure, power and politics and is the location for the infamous Profumo scandal. For more information visit www.clivedenhouse.co.uk
Cliveden’s magnificent formal gardens overlooking the River Thames, were once the exclusive haunt of the rich and famous. The gardens are now owned by the National Trust and can be enjoyed by everyone. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-cliveden
His next stop was a wildlife cruise with Hobbs of Henley
Hobbs of Henley has the enviable reputation of having provided the finest hospitality afloat for 138 years. Founded as Hobbs and Sons in 1870, Hobbs is still run by the Hobbs family, their working knowledge of the Thames going back 5 generations. Whether you want to hire a rowing boat, be chauffeur driven, self-drive a motor launch for the day, take a sightseeing trip or hire a passenger vessel for a private party or a corporate event, Hobbs of Henley will cater for you. For more information visit www.hobbs-of-henley.com
He then went to have a look round the River & Rowing Museum
The Museum is a fantastic place to visit for all members of the family, it has three main galleries devoted to the River Thames, the international sport of rowing and the town of Henley on Thames. The Wind in the Willows is a permanent exhibition that brings the story by Kenneth Grahame to life using 3D models, sets, music and an audio guide. For more information visit www.rrm.co.uk.
Last but not least, Simon enjoyed a relaxing cup of tea on the Hotel Boat Baglady
Baglady is a new vessel built in the style of a Dutch Barge, sympathetically fitted out by her owner operators, Roy and Sue Farman. Baglady and her crew are exclusively at your disposal to pamper and spoil you and with no fixed itinerary you have the freedom to plan your own relaxing break. Whether you just want to experience a day cruising the Thames, would like a relaxing weekend away or are interested in really exploring the history and beauty of the Thames with a longer break, the Hotel boat Baglady will be able to cater for your every need. For more information visit www.hotelboatbaglady.co.uk
Why not explore this website to find more activities to do and attractions to see on and around the River Thames!