About The Thames
Explore southeast England in the most charming way possible with a boating holiday on the Thames.
Our Thames boat hire allows you and your family to discover the famous river from a new perspective, at your own pace, and away from the crowds. As you gaze at Windsor Bridge and Castle or Hampton Court Palace from your river boat, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time.
With everything from large towns with shops, pubs and museums to small villages with a much slower pace, the Thames is the perfect staycation destination for families. So why not hire a boat on the Thames and experience the beauty of southeast England like never before?
Discover a new side to this destination and save up to 10%*.
Interactive map of the Thames
Emerald Star base
Point of interest
No boat licence or experience required!
Not many of our new customers have driven a boat before. However, they quickly realise how easy it is and soon become confident navigating the waterways. Our base teams will show you everything you need know, so you can relax and enjoy your time away!
Our customer reviews on The River Thames
See all reviews >Emerald Star staff were very friendly and helpful.
Lots of lovely stopping off points
Excellent service from staff at Chertsey and our boat ‘Magnifique’ was great. We travelled from Chertsey to Windsor and and had a great time . Looking at next year Benson to Oxford.
Originally we had booked Benson. Nearer the holiday we changed to Chertsey and OMG, it was amazing. Lovely pubs and restaurants along the way, the locals were so friendly and we would have loved to stay for another few days. We went the 1st week in June and the weather was actually on our side aswell, which was fabulous. As for Emerald Star, we will definitely be booking with this Company again, they were outstanding from start to finish 👏 👌
It is perfect holiday to clean your soul. The time passes slowly. Give you time to think and talk.
boat is great! Definitely add a Le boat trip to your bucket list. Very easy for first time cruisers. Easy boats to operate. We were a group of 7-10 and we had plenty of space on board. The Thames lock system is easy to use on eve you get the hang of it. Most of the locks are manned too. En route there a many marinas but plenty of great moorings in the towns along the way. A 10 day trip from Chertsey gets you to Benson and back. Bring a WiFi hotspot with you – with unlimited data. Buying food on the way is very easy as there are plenty of towns.
We had a great holiday with le boat. The Thames was lovely – beautiful scenery + some nice old villages
Wonderful way to see the English countryside.
Excellent boat, heating lighting etc all worked. Great handover and check-in. Very friendly and knowledgable staff
Lovely weather and scenery
Great way to see the river and not have to return
We thoroughly enjoyed the itinerary on The Thames. Each town was unique in its own way. We went upstream first to Oxford and then continued down the river to Chertsey. The boat has everything you would need. We rented the Horizon 4 and travelled with 8 people. It never seemed to be too crowded, as there are many areas to hang out on the boat.
Enjoyed the cruise in idea weather and the boat was easy and a pleasure to handle in the locks with only three persons on the boat.
Good boat, clean, quick orientation, helpful staff
Boat was spacious clean and tidy if showing its age a little
Boat facilities good and great weather arranged for us!
Benson shorebased crew are well organised and helpful. Great facility, good parking.
Great boat and fabulous boat yard with ace staff too.
Our Thames River boating holiday recommendations
History & heritage
The Thames River is perhaps one of the world’s most historic waterways. That becomes obvious as you travel to Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace and Cliveden House. But the history and heritage is everywhere! You’ll often dine in a pub that was built 500 years ago!
Family
Kids will love LEGOLAND Windsor Resort with its fun rides and live shows! While the family is seeing Hampton Court Palace near Kingston-upon-Thames, why not build time to enjoy Chessington World of Adventures. It’s perfect for kids under age 12!
Fishing
The beautiful Thames River boasts gorgeous reaches where the riverboat fishing is superb! Free fishing sites are set up for anglers anxious to land roach, perch, barbel, chub, pike or carp! Fish free at Oxford and Reading!
Why choose Emerald Star for your Thames River holiday?
From seamless check-ins to on-call technical assistance, Emerald Star ensures your experience is smooth, relaxing, and impeccably cared for.
Our boats have well-furnished cabins, kitchens, and bathrooms so you can cruise in comfort.
Be the captain of your own floating houseboat; just hop aboard and explore at your own pace.
View all canal & river boats for hire.
The River Thames: Read our Articles
Choosing between Benson or Chertsey to start your canal holiday
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Select your route
Benson is located at the quiet and rural end of the Thames where the river is flanked by rolling countryside and farmland and quaint villages. Moorings are easy to find and the distance between locks is slightly greater than at the river’s eastern end – which means more cruising. The dreaming spires and universities of Oxford is a 6hr cruise to the west of Benson. Or, head east and in 6hrs you’ll be in Henley-on-Thames, home of British rowing. Royal Windsor is 12 hrs from Benson.
Travel connections
- Gatwick : 120 km (M25)
- London Heathrow : 61 km (M25)
- Cholsey: 8km
- Reading: 20km
- Oxford: 20km
- Didcot: 16km
Sounds interesting? Find out More
Our London (Chertsey) base is not far from central London, so the river here is bordered by bustling towns and villages with a wider variety of restaurants, supermarkets and pubs than there is near Benson. The historic and grand royal palace at Hampton Court is just 3hrs to the east, with Kingston (and direct trains into central London) another 30minutes after that. 3hr west from our London (Chertsey) base will find you in Windsor and Eton and the countryside vistas become more and more beautiful the further you travel.
Travel connections
- London Heathrow: 17 km (M25)
- Gatwick: 53 km (M25)
-
- Staines: 4km
Sounds interesting? Find out More
Benson is located at the quiet and rural end of the Thames where the river is flanked by rolling countryside and farmland and quaint villages. Moorings are easy to find and the distance between locks is slightly greater than at the river’s eastern end – which means more cruising. The dreaming spires and universities of Oxford is a 6hr cruise to the west of Benson. Or, head east and in 6hrs you’ll be in Henley-on-Thames, home of British rowing. Royal Windsor is 12 hrs from Benson.
Travel connections
- Gatwick : 120 km (M25)
- London Heathrow : 61 km (M25)
- Cholsey: 8km
- Reading: 20km
- Oxford: 20km
- Didcot: 16km
Sounds interesting? Find out More
Our London (Chertsey) base is not far from central London, so the river here is bordered by bustling towns and villages with a wider variety of restaurants, supermarkets and pubs than there is near Benson. The historic and grand royal palace at Hampton Court is just 3hrs to the east, with Kingston (and direct trains into central London) another 30minutes after that. 3hr west from our London (Chertsey) base will find you in Windsor and Eton and the countryside vistas become more and more beautiful the further you travel.
Travel connections
- London Heathrow: 17 km (M25)
- Gatwick: 53 km (M25)
-
- Staines: 4km
Sounds interesting? Find out More
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Marcus has been an integral part of Le Boat’s sales team for several years, so knows our destinations and fleet very well. After many cruises with us he particularly loves our stunning Irish and Italian destinations!
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Emerald Star Base
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Itinerary suggestions
Our boating vacations allow you the freedom to stop when you want and take each day as it comes. However, you might like to be guided by one of our day-by-day suggested itineraries, complete with estimated cruising times and restaurant recommendations. You can follow it religiously or just use it for ideas – whatever ‘floats your boat’. Please bear in mind that our itineraries are just suggestions. Cruising times are estimates and access to waterways, attractions and restaurants are all subject to availability at time of cruising.
Benson RETURN via Oxford 3-Night Itinerary
Benson RETURN via Windsor 7-Night Itinerary
Route suggestions
As well as the suggested itinerary shown above, all the routes available in this region are shown below. They aren’t as detailed, but they should help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have. You won’t have time to stop at every single place listed on each suggestion – but they should give you an idea of what’s possible. Of course, cruising times are approximations and access to waterways, attractions and restaurants are all subject to availability at time of cruising.
= Click the arrow icon on each route suggestion, to flip the 'card' and reveal more details.
Benson RETURN via Marlow
Benson RETURN via Marlow
Benson RETURN via Marlow
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Overview
When approaching Henley-on-Thames, you gaze at a postcard-perfect scene — sculling crews row sleek craft, and colourful waterfront pubs and shops look inviting. You know you’re in the midst of quintessential England, so you stop for a lunch of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding washed down with a pint of local ale, a favourite on River Thames cruises!
Top highlights:
- Wallingford’s castle and famous market
- Goring’s Hartslock and Withymead nature reserves
- The Georgian Manor and exotic animals of Beale Park in Pangbourne
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berksrent Downs within a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson’s Bo’Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK’s top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world’s finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of ‘Swan Upping’ when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a holiday feel.
Benson RETURN via Oxford & Henley
Benson RETURN via Oxford & Henley
Benson RETURN via Oxford & Henley
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Overview
England’s city of learning, venerable Oxford, rises in understated grandeur over the shimmering blue of the Thames. You’re all set to go ashore to sightsee, shop, dine and trek the river’s excellent trail. The laid-back quality of the landscape has soothed you, and you’re glad you made sure your Thames riverboat cruise included some bird-watching at Benson Lock.
Top highlights:
- Abingdon’s historic market town with seventeenth century buildings
- The Anglo-Saxon architecture of Oxford, with an endless array of beautiful libraries
- Wallingford’s castle and famous market
- Strolling through the half-timbered houses of Sonning-On-Thames
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Dorchester: Dorchester-on-Thames is a village at the confluence of the River Thames and its tributary The Thames. It is ideal for exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside by foot or bicycle. For something different to do, nearby Day’s Lock hosts the World Pooh Sticks Championships every spring.
- Abingdon: Abingdon, a lovely market town, has some 56 buildings from the 17th century and prior. Evidence also exists of a 6,000 year old settlement, making this the oldest, continuously-occupied town in Britain. By contrast, it’s known for its MG car manufacturing and was one of the UK’s first towns to offer free wi-fi for all.
- Oxford: Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires, will inspire and enchant you with its architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Home to royalty and scholars for over 900 years, it is full of old buildings, many owned by the famous University. Excellent shopping, museums and tours will keep you busy for a whole day at least.
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson’s Bo’Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK’s top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world’s finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of ‘Swan Upping’ when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a holiday feel.
Benson RETURN via Windsor
Benson RETURN via Windsor
Benson RETURN via Windsor
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Overview
You have fun trying to make the palace guards at Windsor Castle smile, but you don’t succeed! Then you take a picnic lunch to the Royal Gardens to relax under the warm sun, vastly content from the rigors of the morning. Royal Cruise boat vacations on the Thames have bewitched with the grand castles and homes you’ve seen so far!
Top highlights:
- The Georgian Manor and exotic animals of Beale Park in Pangbourne
- Maidenhead’s multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants
- Windsor’s Abbey and Castle
- Stopping for tea at Cliveden House
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson’s Bo’Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK’s top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world’s finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of ‘Swan Upping’ when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a holiday feel.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain’s largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You’ll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
Benson to London (Chertsey)
Benson to London (Chertsey)
Benson to London (Chertsey)
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Overview
Every medieval village you pass draws the eye with ornate buildings and beautiful waterfronts. You’ve just gone by Beale Park outside Goring, but you didn’t stop for a picnic. Instead, you travel on to spend the night in Henley-on-Thames. You’ve decided to take it slow and easy on your River Thames boat rent, savouring the delights of cycling, golf and hanging out in friendly pubs!
Top highlights:
- Windsor’s Abbey and Castle
- Goring’s Hartslock and Withymead nature reserves
- Maidenhead’s multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants
- Stopping for tea at Cliveden House
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson’s Bo’Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK’s top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world’s finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of ‘Swan Upping’ when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a holiday feel.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Windsor: The Royal town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain’s largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You’ll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Runnymede: Nearly 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons on Magna Carta Island in Runnymede. It was here he signed a historic document which is seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy. Today, in this spirit, Runnymede has several memorials to the ongoing struggle for liberty – a trio of thought-provoking places which are worth a stop at to reflect, ponder and remember.
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas – The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
Benson to London (Chertsey) via Kingston-upon-Thames
Benson to London (Chertsey) via Kingston-upon-Thames
Benson to London (Chertsey) via Kingston-upon-Thames
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Overview
Hampton Court Palace, once the home of King Henry VIII, looms above you and the circular fountain in front murmurs in the background. You smile as you recall the varied charms of your Thames riverboat cruise, a unique way to travel! The world just looks different from a boat, and you know that now at the end of the trip! Cycling, pubs, historic sites — it was all part of the fun!
Top highlights:
- Windsor’s Abbey and Castle
- Exploring the history of the Magna Carta in Runnymede
- An exhilarating day of fun at Thorpe Park in Staines
- Learning about the history of Henry VIII at Hampton Court Palace in Richmond
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Wallingford: The Royal Borough of Wallingford was once home to 14 churches! While most are long gone, there’s still plenty to see, from independent shops and markets to cafes and restaurants. Markets are held every Friday with a farmers’ market on the third Tuesday of each month. The castle ruins and gardens are a nice place for a picnic. Wallingford is perhaps most famous for being the home of Agatha Christie and the setting for many of her stories.
- Moulsford: A small, but pretty village which faces South Stoke on the opposite bank. South Stoke has a quaint church and a 17th century village pub. Neither village has any shops but the highlight in Moulsford is the famous Beetle and Wedge Hotel.
- Goring: This pretty town sits between the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs within a designated ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. The Norman church of St Thomas can be seen overlooking the river and there are many shops, restaurants and bars to help while away a lazy afternoon.
- Pangbourne: Pangbourne dates back to Saxon Times. Lord Nelson’s Bo’Sun lived in Pangbourne and is buried at St James the Less church, built in 1660. The individual shops are full of character and the surrounding area is ideal for walkers, photographers and artists alike.
- Reading: Famous as one of the UK’s top ten retail destinations, the heart of Reading offers much more than superb shopping. The Forbury Gardens, a nationally acclaimed Victorian formal garden, leads you beautifully to the ruins of Reading Abbey, an ancient monument and burial place of a King of England.
- Sonning: Sonning-On-Thames is a picturesque riverside village with half timbered Tudor houses and is one of the prettiest stops along the Thames. Sonning Lock, with its colourful gardens, is a lovely place for a stroll and the impressive arched bridge, built in 1775, spans the River Thames perfectly.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world’s finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of ‘Swan Upping’ when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a holiday feel.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain’s largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You’ll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Runnymede: Nearly 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons on Magna Carta Island in Runnymede. It was here he signed a historic document which is seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy. Today, in this spirit, Runnymede has several memorials to the ongoing struggle for liberty – a trio of thought-provoking places which are worth a stop at to reflect, ponder and remember.
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas – The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
- Kingston-Upon-Thames: Kingston-upon-Thames was once the coronation place of Saxon Kings (902 – 978). Today this busy market town has developed into a major shopping and entertainment hub, although it retains much of its original charm. It also has a strong arts culture and a vibrant festival programme.
London (Chertsey) RETURN via Henley-upon-Thames
London (Chertsey) RETURN via Henley-upon-Thames
London (Chertsey) RETURN via Henley-upon-Thames
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Overview
The easy going pace of a River Thames boat rent relaxes you almost immediately after you get going. The villages with waterside pubs and pretty greens tempt you to stop, and you often do! Cycling takes you into the countryside to get a real taste of beautiful England, and sightseeing is unforgettable in Windsor!
Top highlights:
- Windsor’s Abbey and Castle
- Henley’s extraordinary church and market square
- Maidenhead’s multitude of Michelin-starred restaurants
- Stopping for tea at Cliveden House
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas – The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain’s largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You’ll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.
- Maidenhead: Maidenhead is an ancient town with a history going back to early Saxon times. This bustling town is now a centre of rowing excellence. It is a popular destination for shoppers and, for those who love fine dining; the area is home to some fantastic restaurants including some Michelin-starred venues.
- Cookham: Cookham is a pretty village with a delightful High Street that has changed little over the centuries. Today it boasts many fine restaurants and inns. Kenneth Grahame lived in Cookham and is said to have been inspired by the River Thames at Cookham to write The Wind in the Willows.
- Cliveden: As the river snakes past Cookham, the beechwoods rise steeply and you will see the Cliveden Estate. A country retreat on a grand scale, it was once the glittering hub of society; visited by virtually every British Monarch since George I.
- Marlow: Marlow is a charming Georgian market town, spanned by an elegant suspension bridge. Marlow is the venue for the annual royal ceremony of ‘Swan Upping’ when cygnets are tagged, and for the Marlow Town Regatta, held in June. With its many restaurants and bistros, every month in Marlow has a holiday feel.
- Henley-upon-Thames: Best known for its Royal Regatta, Henley is synonymous with rowing and attracts some of the world’s finest rowers. Just a few strides from the riverbank is the heart of Henley with its historic church, town hall and market square, the latter bustling with busy stall-holders and shoppers on market days.
London (Chertsey) RETURN via Windsor & Kingston-upon-Thames
London (Chertsey) RETURN via Windsor & Kingston-upon-Thames
London (Chertsey) RETURN via Windsor & Kingston-upon-Thames
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Overview
Standing in front of the stately Hampton Court Palace near Kingston-upon-Thames, you think about King Henry VIII, who once lived there. You spend time sightseeing, and then your cruise on the Thames lures you past Chertsey to incredible Windsor Castle. Along the way, you stop often at waterside pubs for a bit of steak and kidney pie!
Top highlights:
- The ancient markets in Kingston-upon-Thames
- Windsor’s Abbey and Castle
- Exploring the history of the Magna Carta in Runnymede
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Kingston-Upon-Thames: Kingston-upon-Thames was once the coronation place of Saxon Kings (902 – 978). Today this busy market town has developed into a major shopping and entertainment hub, although it retains much of its original charm. It also has a strong arts culture and a vibrant festival programme.
- Staines: Staines is a bustling town which attracts scores of visitors to its impressive retail areas – The Elmsleigh Centre and Two Rivers, as well as the town centre with its pedestrianised shopping area offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
- Runnymede: Nearly 800 years ago, King John met with a group of barons on Magna Carta Island in Runnymede. It was here he signed a historic document which is seen by many as the symbolic first step on the road to modern democracy. Today, in this spirit, Runnymede has several memorials to the ongoing struggle for liberty – a trio of thought-provoking places which are worth a stop at to reflect, ponder and remember.
- Egham: This water-meadow alongside the Thames makes a great place to moor up and enjoy a stroll or reflect on world history. Visit the Literary Institute to browse through archaeological items and paintings.
- Windsor: The Royal Town of Windsor is full of history and charm and is home to Britain’s largest inhabited castle and royal residence of over 900 years – Windsor Castle. You’ll also find a bustling town centre with contemporary shopping, fine dining and leisure activities. Well worth a stop for the day.
- Eton: Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the famous public school, Eton College, one of the most exclusive schools in the world with annual fees of around £20,000. The ancient desks and benches bear the graffiti of generations of former pupils, which include 19 former British Prime Ministers.