Do I need previous paddling experience?

No experience is required; Thames Canoe Hire provides a full safety briefing and basic paddling instructions.

Can children join the trip?

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, with a ratio of one adult per two children.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, all participants receive buoyancy aids as part of the gear package.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If conditions are unsafe, bookings may be rescheduled or refunded; always check local weather before arrival.

Is parking available at the launch site?

Yes, there is parking at Reading Marine Services Boatyard, but it can fill quickly on weekends.

Can we stop for refreshments during the trip?

Yes, suggested stops include small beaches and local cafés like the Mad Duck near Mapledurham.

Half-Day Kayak & Canoe Hire at Thames Canoe Hire | Sightseeing Tour | Canoe

Thames Canoe Hire offers a standout paddling experience along the iconic River Thames, right from the vibrant town of Reading, England. Operating out of the Reading Marine Services Boatyard in Tilehurst, this half-day boat hire lets visitors of all ages dive into a four-hour journey through some of the Thames’ most tranquil and scenic stretches.

The River Thames here flows gently past natural and cultural landmarks that uniquely blend outdoor adventure with quiet riverside charm. Paddlers can venture upstream toward Mapledurham, where the serenity is punctuated only by occasional trains crossing nearby tracks. This stretch features Appletree Eyot and Poplar Island, inviting you to spot local wildlife like kingfishers, herons, and even elusive red kites gliding overhead. A hidden gem is Purley Beach, a small sandy spot perfect for a rest or picnic break, with the Mad Duck café nearby if you need a riverside latte.

Downstream paddlers make their way toward Caversham, passing the historic rowing club and swan habitats—keep an eye out for rare black swans amid the more common white ones. The route curves around Fry’s Island and under the modern footbridge before reaching a park often graced by ice cream vans and the charming tea barge moored near Caversham Lock.

Thames Canoe Hire stands out in the local recreation scene by providing all necessary gear, strict safety briefings, and expert guidance, making the Thames accessible for beginners through to family groups. The company’s respectful approach to the river environment supports local conservation efforts, ensuring the river’s delicate ecosystem thrives alongside recreational use.

For visitors based in Reading or passing through, this half-day paddling trip combines physical activity, wildlife spotting, and historic riverside culture, making it a refreshing and memorable way to engage with England’s most storied waterway.