The Royal River Thames, from the Cotswolds to London

Welcome to the essential guide to places to visit, things to do, accommodation and events along the Royal River Thames and Thames Path National Trail, providing great experiences, stretching from Lechlade in Gloucestershire, through London with its iconic views and out to the sea.

Why not take this opportunity to take a look through the website and discover great places to visit and things to do for future days out and short breaks. Explore before you plan your visit.

A great way to experience the river Thames is by boat, and for those looking for something more active, there's plenty of choice: try kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, or why not have a go at punting? Or for something a little easier what about a rowing boat or a self-drive cruiser.  You can hire the boats by the hour, half day or day from various locations from Oxford to London. Read more about hiring a boat here, there's all the information you need to hire a boat, canoe, kayak, paddleboard or water bike on the River Thames.

For those planning days out, short breaks or staycations, we have provided some inspiration ‘Escape the Everyday along the Thames’.

The Thames offers so many outdoor experiences from boating and watersports to walking the Thames Path National Trail and wonderful gardens. Take a look at the Things To Do section.

Explore the Thames Valley with GWR and take a look at the Rail Trails we've put together to inspire a walk along the Thames Path National Trail.  

Enjoy a short break or day out along the River Thames, a walk along the Thames Path National Trail, or choose a circular walk that starts from the river bank. Stop off at one of the great riverside pubs and hotels along the way, and refresh yourself with a drink or sample locally sourced meals.

Take to the water on a pleasure cruise along the Thames and see the sights, trips are available from London, Runnymede, Windsor, Reading, Henley and Oxford. Read more about Boat trips on the Thames and choose from Wildlife cruises, comedy nights, Sundowner cruises and many more.

Why not plan your escape for a short break, family holiday along the Thames in 2023. There’s some lovely riverside hotels on the website or explore the river on one of the wide variety of boating holidays on offer. We've created a selection of holiday ideas to inspire you.

Are you thinking about buying…

Are you thinking about buying your own boat?  Henley Boat Club 'Membership Boating'  is the easy way to take to the river it gives you freedom to enjoy a choice of boats with none of the cost or hassle of ownership. Our ‘Owning a boat on the River Thames’  section has useful information including a guide to buying a pre-owned boat which will help you through the process.