Henley Canoe Hire offers paddlers of all ages a chance to navigate the scenic Thames with trips from one hour to full-day adventures. Discover wildlife, riverside pubs, and iconic landmarks on this unique canoe experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour to full day
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed; suitable for beginners and families with children age 5 and up.
Wildlife
History
Henley-on-Thames has hosted the prestigious Royal Regatta since 1839, making the river an iconic part of British rowing culture.
Conservation
Henley Canoe Hire promotes low-impact paddling and educates visitors on preserving the delicate river ecosystem.
Henley Canoe Hire
Henley Canoe Hire offers paddlers of all ages a chance to navigate the scenic Thames with trips from one hour to full-day adventures. Discover wildlife, riverside pubs, and iconic landmarks on this unique canoe experience.
Henley Canoe Hire is a riverside outfitter based in Henley-on-Thames, England, specialising in canoe, kayak, SUP and waterbike hire along the River Thames. The company offers a range of self-guided trips from short hourly hires to multi-day expeditions, including the iconic Henley to Marlow paddle and the extended Whole Thames Challenge.
Equipment options include canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and waterbikes, available for one-hour, half-day, full-day and multi-day bookings. Experienced staff provide route advice, safety briefings and maps, ensuring paddlers navigate locks, regatta courses and backwaters with confidence. Popular itineraries include the scenic Henley to Windsor two-day paddle covering approximately 24 miles with an overnight stop in Marlow, and shorter hire options suited to families, groups and first-time paddlers.
Henley Canoe Hire operates from Henley-on-Thames, offering easy river access near the Royal Regatta Course. The Whole Thames Challenge is a self-guided 6- or 8-day itinerary that follows the river from source to sea, with planning support and customizable logistics. Day hires and hourly rentals are ideal for wildlife watching, riverside pubs and relaxed cruising.
Booking is available online or by phone, with flexible durations and route suggestions. Safety equipment and basic instruction are provided with each hire. Henley Canoe Hire serves local residents and visitors seeking outdoor activity, scenic paddling and river-based exploration on one of England’s most famous rivers. Groups, families and solo paddlers can choose routes to match skill level, with staff advising on locks, currents and river etiquette so trips remain safe, manageable and enjoyable for all participants.
Tours Offered
7
From hourly hires to multi-day challenges
Flexible Durations
1 hour–8 days
Short hires to Whole Thames Challenge
River Access
Henley-on-Thames
Near the Royal Regatta Course
Suitable For
Families & Groups
All ages and skill levels welcome
Reserve canoe, kayak, SUP or waterbike hire — flexible times, safety briefings, and route guidance available
Wear a buoyancy aid at all times
Safety is a priority; all paddlers under 16 must wear buoyancy aids and be accompanied by an adult.
Pack waterproof sunscreen
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can reflect off the water—protect your skin during your trip.
Check weather conditions before setting out
River winds can pick up unexpectedly, especially on longer routes; plan accordingly.
Bring a dry bag for valuables
Keep your keys, phone, and snacks safe and dry while paddling.
Buoyancy aid
Mandatory for safety on the water for all participants.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and rain especially on cooler days.
spring|fall|winter
Sunhat and sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during extended paddling sessions.
summer
Dry bag
Keeps personal items ranging from phones to snacks dry while on the river.