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Paddle 20 scenic miles along the Thames from Reading to Marlow over two days, passing eight historic locks and enjoying a restful overnight stop in Henley. Discover why this gentle river adventure is perfect for explorers of all skill levels.
Paddle 20 scenic miles along the Thames from Reading to Marlow over two days, passing eight historic locks and enjoying a restful overnight stop in Henley. Discover why this gentle river adventure is perfect for explorers of all skill levels.
Book with Thames Canoe Hire
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Thames Canoe Hire · Reading, England
The River Thames, winding through the heart of southern England, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historic charm that few other waterways can match. This multi-day canoeing adventure begins at The Boat Yard in Reading and carries paddlers on a 20-mile journey through tranquil stretches of river, passing eight classic locks before reaching the picturesque town of Marlow. Over two days, adventurers immerse themselves in a landscape marked by lush riverside woodlands, quaint villages, and serene waters seldom disturbed except by the occasional gliding swan or bobbing duck. The trip is ideal for those who wish to experience the Thames at a pace that lets the surroundings unfold fully.
The route offers an inviting mix of easy paddling sections and picturesque lock passages, which add a hands-on, historical element to the journey. Each lock, an engineering remnant from centuries past, showcases how the river was shaped to accommodate both commerce and leisure. Henley, the overnight stop, is an iconic riverside town renowned for its rowing heritage and elegant Victorian architecture, providing a comfortable base to rest with numerous local inns and eateries just steps from the water.
Thames Canoe Hire equips travelers thoroughly, providing personalized safety briefings and helping with gear setup to ensure a seamless experience. Canoes are stable and well-maintained, ideal for paddlers with a basic to moderate skill level. The ability to travel at a self-directed pace means participants can stop for picnics along quiet riverbanks, soak in the peaceful atmosphere, and photograph the diverse birdlife and wildflowers that frame the river’s edge.
This trip is a distinctive way to engage with the Upper Thames, an area steeped in history yet serenely natural, combining outdoor exercise with cultural highlights. The calm current and gentle lock transitions make it an accessible journey for adventurous families, couples, and groups seeking an active and scenic escape from urban life. For visitors staying in Reading or Marlow, this paddle offers a unique introduction to England’s storied river landscape. Whether as a leisurely row away from the crowds or a focused paddling expedition, this two-day experience stands out as an authentic and rewarding way to explore one of Britain’s most iconic rivers.
moderate.
2 days.
Moderate fitness needed to paddle 20 miles over two days, including managing locks.
No, beginners are welcome as the guides provide safety briefings and support.
Yes, overnight stays are arranged in Henley with options for inns and B&Bs.
Trips may be adjusted or rescheduled; participants are advised to bring weather-appropriate gear.
Yes, all participants receive personal flotation devices as part of the equipment.
Yes, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult over 18.
The Boat Yard is located in Reading, easily accessible by public transport and car.
The Thames has been a vital trade artery since Roman times, with many locks dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Efforts are in place to maintain water quality and protect native species along the river, encouraging responsible paddling practices.
Thames Canoe Hire is a river activity provider based in Reading, England, operating from The Boat Yard at Reading Marine Services. The business offers canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and motor boat hire for half-day, full-day, multi-day and seven-day trips on the River Thames. Trips range from short half-day outings to single-day journeys like The Boat Yard to Henley and extended multi-day adventures such as Oxford to Reading (35 miles, 11 locks) and Maidenhead to Windsor (four-day, 32.5 miles, 12 locks). Hire options include two-day SUP hire, two-day canoe or kayak weekends without drop-off, one-way itineraries with collection, and seven-day packages with or without drop and collection. All hires include safety briefings, necessary gear and practical guidance on locks, navigation and landing points. Multi-day routes reference typical overnight stops at riverside towns and B&Bs, and individual trip summaries note distances, durations and lock counts where applicable. Motor boat hire is available for groups of up to six people for shorter outings. Thames Canoe Hire serves families, groups and individual paddlers seeking scenic river experiences through Caversham, Sonning, Mapledurham, Wargrave, Pangbourne, Henley, Windsor and other Thames towns. Customers should consult the business directly for current availability, seasonal river conditions and specific logistics including collection and drop-off arrangements.
Book with Thames Canoe Hire