Cruise the River Thames on a canal boat or cruiser. No previous boating experience necessary. Pets welcome on many boats.
The River Thames passes many fascinating and picturesque English towns and cities as it makes its way from Thames Head in the Cotswolds to the Thames Estuary beyond London. It offers some of the most attractive cruising through some of the most stunning locations anywhere in the UK. The river is non-tidal above Teddington right through to Oxford and Lechlade, making it ideal for first time and experienced boaters alike.
The navigable length of the Thames is 124 miles long and has 45 locks, many of which have a lockkeeper. Navigable between the attractive riverside town of Lechlade all the way to Teddington Lock in the western suburbs of London, famous places to visit on a River Thames boating holiday include Oxford, Abingdon, Reading, Henley-on-Thames, Marlow and Windsor, all of which are easily accessible by boat. Attractions along the way include the dreamy spires of Oxford with its world famous universities and wonderful shopping experience with many unique independent retailers. Alternatively, Windsor offers a Royal experience with a visit to Windsor Castle. You can also wander through Windsor Great Park or enjoy a day at the Ascot Races!
For the kids, why not visit Legoland - suitable for children up to the age of 12. Set in 150 acres Legoland offers some amazing LEGO displays plus 55 rides and 10 themed areas including the Pharaohs, Pirate Island and Land of the Vikings.
Windsor Castle: The Queen's official residence, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Overlooks the River Thames
Hampton Court Palace: The best preserved of the Tudor Palaces, Hampton Court was the favourite Residence of Henry VIII. Fully open to the public.
Rousham House and Gardens: The house, built in 1635 by Sir Robert Dormer, is still in the ownership of the same family with a famous walled garden
Oxford: Home to the oldest university in the English speaking world, Oxford is a centre learning and culture.
Henley on Thames: Home of the famous Henley Royal Regatta plus some of the smartest riverside eateries!
We can offer a variety of motor cruisers from Windsor. From Datchet, (Windsor) it may be worth spending the first night in Windsor, an attraction town with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from. It takes around 3 or 4 hours cruise along the River Thames to reach Marlow, and 5 or 6 hours to Henley on Thames.
Windsor.
We offer some traditional canals boat along the northern section of the River Thames, just a couple of hours cruising from Oxford City centre. This marina (base 1 on the map) is ideally located for those wishing to encorporate a weekend away with a City break.
Oxford (Eynsham).
Click to view the interactive map of the UK inland waterways.
