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  EXPLORE OUR ROUTES 

Discover the River Thames with guided and self-led adventures through Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire. Explore routes like Marlow to Cookham, Pangbourne to Goring, or Oxford to Abingdon by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. Our services include accessible options for all skill levels and grant-supported programs to bring communities together. Learn about Windsor canoeing opportunities or plan a day tour for an unforgettable experience.

1. The River Thames: A Brief Overview
 

The Thames is the longest river in England, stretching over 215 miles (346 km) from its source in the Cotswolds to its mouth in the North Sea. While the river is often associated with its famous landmarks in London, it flows through some of the most picturesque countryside in the southeast of England. As the Thames makes its way through Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Buckinghamshire, it meanders through lush green fields, past historic towns and villages, and under ancient bridges, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing or adventurous paddle. Whether you're planning a leisurely trip or exploring facts about the River Thames, this iconic river offers something for everyone.

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2. Canoeing and Kayaking in Berkshire


Key Routes

Berkshire is home to some of the most scenic sections of the River Thames. As the river flows through the county, it offers a variety of routes suitable for different skill levels.
 

  1. Reading to Henley-on-Thames
    This stretch of the river is one of the most popular for paddlers, offering around 10 miles (16 km) of scenic views, including countryside, historic buildings, and charming riverside pubs. The journey from Reading to Henley takes you past the iconic Sonning Lock, a picturesque spot often frequented by wildlife. Henley itself is famous for its annual Royal Regatta, and arriving by canoe or kayak is a unique way to experience this historic town.

  2. Pangbourne to Goring
    This shorter 5-mile (8 km) route is perfect for beginners or those looking for a peaceful afternoon paddle. Pangbourne, with its charming riverside setting, is a great starting point, and the route takes you through the stunning Goring Gap, where the Thames cuts through the Chiltern Hills. The surrounding countryside is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), making it a fantastic route for nature lovers.


Access Points

Berkshire provides a number of easily accessible points for launching canoes and kayaks. Popular spots include:
 

  • Caversham Lock in Reading, which offers easy access to the water.

  • Pangbourne is another popular launch site, providing parking and a public slipway.

  • Henley-on-Thames has multiple access points, including public slipways, and is a convenient spot for paddlers looking to explore the river further.

     

Wildlife

While paddling through Berkshire, you are likely to encounter a variety of wildlife. Swans, ducks, and herons are common sights along the riverbank, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a kingfisher darting between the trees. The Thames is also home to otters, which have been making a gradual return to the river after years of absence due to pollution.

3. Canoeing and Kayaking in Oxfordshire
 

Key Routes

As the River Thames flows through Oxfordshire, it offers some of the most serene and picturesque routes for canoeing and kayaking. This section of the river is characterised by rolling hills, quiet villages, and historic landmarks.
 

  1. Oxford to Abingdon
    This 10-mile (16 km) route is one of the most popular in Oxfordshire, starting in the historic city of Oxford, with its beautiful architecture and university buildings. As you paddle south, the river becomes more rural, passing through peaceful countryside and small villages. The journey ends in Abingdon, one of England’s oldest towns, which is worth exploring after your paddle.

  2. Wallingford to Benson
    This short but scenic route covers around 4 miles (6.5 km) and is perfect for a leisurely paddle. Wallingford is a historic market town, and the river here is wide and calm, making it ideal for beginners. Benson, a small village, marks the end of this relaxing journey.

  3. Lechlade to Newbridge
    For more experienced paddlers, this 16-mile (26 km) route offers a longer challenge. Starting in Lechlade, near the source of the Thames, the route passes through rural Oxfordshire, with opportunities to stop in small villages along the way. The journey ends at Newbridge, one of the oldest bridges on the Thames.
     

Access Points

Oxfordshire provides plenty of access points for paddlers. Popular sites include:
 

  • Oxford, where several boatyards and public slipways provide access to the river.

  • Wallingford has public access points and parking facilities, making it a great starting location.

  • Lechlade offers access near St. John’s Lock, the highest lock on the Thames, where paddlers can begin their journey upstream or downstream.
     

Wildlife

The stretch of the Thames that runs through Oxfordshire is teeming with wildlife, making it a favourite spot for nature enthusiasts. Along this part of the river, you might spot a range of birdlife, including swans, geese, and the occasional red kite soaring overhead. The tranquil waters also provide a habitat for fish such as trout and perch, and otters have been spotted in this section of the river.

4. Canoeing and Kayaking in Buckinghamshire


Key Routes

In Buckinghamshire, the River Thames forms part of the border with Berkshire, and this section of the river offers both scenic beauty and historical interest.
 

  1. Marlow to Cookham
    This 6-mile (9.5 km) route is a favourite among paddlers for its stunning scenery and calm waters. Starting in the picturesque town of Marlow, with its famous suspension bridge and riverside pubs, the route takes you through peaceful countryside before ending in Cookham, a quaint village with strong artistic connections—Stanley Spencer, a renowned British painter, lived and worked here.

  2. Cliveden Reach
    Cliveden Reach is one of the most beautiful and historic sections of the Thames. The river here is flanked by steep, wooded cliffs, and the grandeur of Cliveden House overlooks the water. This short paddle, around 3 miles (4.8 km), is perfect for a quiet afternoon on the water, offering stunning views of the estate and the surrounding countryside.


Access Points

Buckinghamshire has a number of access points for launching canoes and kayaks, including:

  • Marlow, with its public slipway near the bridge and easy parking options.

  • Cookham, where paddlers can easily access the river via a public slipway near the village.


Wildlife

The Buckinghamshire stretch of the Thames is home to a variety of wildlife. The wooded areas along Cliveden Reach are home to deer, and birdwatchers will enjoy spotting species such as cormorants, kingfishers, and buzzards. In the water, you may see fish leaping, while swans glide gracefully by.

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