The Thames Path Passport enters its Fourth Year
Yes, it’s really been that long. Nearly a thousand passports have been issued and yet still lots of walkers are unaware of its existence – despite more than 20 QR codes being placed along the trail. So let’s remind our walkers of what it’s all about.
Inspired by the Pilgrim’s Compestela on the Camino de Santiago, it’s a booklet to collect stamps whilst walking the Thames Path. There are 34 “stamping stations” along the Thames Path’s 181 mile journey. These stations are listed in the booklet so you know where to collect them. The stamping stations include pubs, hotels, visitors’ centres, churches and even a theatre. Each one has a wooden stamp and inkpad to add to your collection. Updates are contained on the website of Walk the Thames, who developed and operate the scheme.
So where do the QR codes come in? Well, in case you happen to pass the stamping station when it’s closed, a QR code has been placed on the outside of the premises of most stamping stations. That allows you to virtually check in to the station. Admittedly it doesn’t give you a stamp. But Walk the Thames now have a record that you’ve been there.
And why is that important? The price of your passport (£7.50) includes a certificate of completion. Just send the passport back to Walk the Thames and they’ll validate it and return with a certificate. And did we mention that £1.50 goes to the National Trail’s office to help fund the upkeep of the Path?
But what if I’ve already walked some of the Path? That’s ok. When you purchase the passport just email them the sections you’ve already completed and they’ll pre-stamp the relevant sections. Even if you’re already on the Path, they can deliver it to your next hotel as they’re up and down the Path every day moving bags.
So where can you buy the passport? Simply go to their online shop https://walkthethames.co.uk/shop/
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The Thames Path Passport is managed by Walk the Thames. They provide self-guided walking holidays and also offer a bag transfer service to those who have booked their own accommodation.
