The Thames Path National Trail is lined with willows through Mill Meadows, leading to the River & Rowing Museum at the entrance to the pretty town of Henley-on-Thames.
The Museum and The Rowing Room Café are in an extraordinary building, designed to look like a boathouse, right beside the Thames Path and close to a popular picnic spot for families.
Inside there are permanent collections telling the amazing history of the River Thames through sport, recreation and trade. Look out for the medals won by Olympic and Paralympic rowers.
A big family favourite is The Wind in the Willows immersive experience. Here you’ll find Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger among the delightful characters from Kenneth Grahame’s book ‘The Wind in the Willows’ all recreated with 3D models and theatrical lighting.
There’s a range of delicious food and drink in The Rowing Room Café with its terrace overlooking the willows and Mill Meadows. Look out for ‘Ratty’s Refuge’ habitats for real water voles beneath the willows!
The Museum hosts changing exhibitions of paintings, photographs and other works by local artists. During June one of the galleries features work of local schoolchildren responding to the challenges of climate change.
A selection of work by the renowned 20th century artist John Piper, including textiles, pottery, watercolours and stained-glass designs, are on permanent display here.
The River & Rowing Museum is on the Go Jauntly Rail to Thames Path National Trail walks.
Useful links
River & Rowing Museum https://rrm.co.uk/
Go Jauntly Rail to Thames Path National Trail Walks in Henley https://walks.gojauntly.com/collections/rail-to-thames-path-national-trail-205
