The Thames Path team believe our natural world should be open for all, so we are working tirelessly to try and make our trail as accessible as possible. We’ve removed stiles and swapped them with accessible gates and are working towards replacing all steps with slopes and ramps.

Being a National Trail that is open to the elements such as rain and ice, there are some terrains that may be tricker for some to access, but you don’t necessarily need to walk miles to get the benefits - simply watching and feeling the nature around you can be enough to relax our minds and refresh our souls!

To help you decide, check out our links below.

  • The Thames Path and Environment Agency have published 12 walks along different parts of the River Thames, all with level and wide paths, gentle slopes and rest areas, the routes can be found here: Walks for All on the River Thames - Visit Thames
  • Check out our Access For All page on our website for ideas and advice:  Access for all on the National Trails - National Trails
  • Look and listen. You may not be able to walk too far, but that doesn’t stop you from finding a nice spot to sit and look at the trail. Listen to the river, watch the sunlight bouncing on leaves, or reflecting on the water and absorb the relaxing sights and sounds of the trail around you.
  • Natural soundtrack – listen to the sounds around you and try to isolate them one at a time. Then allow them to merge back together and think how they complement each other.
  • Create a sensory box – collect leaves/ pinecones, sticks, pebbles. Think about how they feel, look and smell. Do any match? Are any similar colours? Do they have patterns on them? Remember not to pick living leaves or flowers. And it is always a good idea to wash your hands afterwards too.
  • Weather Watching. Sun is great for our mental health – the benefit of the warming rays include generating the production of vitamin D+, supporting bone health, lowering blood pressure, preventing disease, and promoting good mental health. Don’t worry if you get clouds too – look for patterns and enjoy the different light that it brings.