Take on a two-day, 27-mile canoe journey from Abingdon to Reading with Thames Canoe Hire, navigating historic locks and charming riverside towns along the Thames.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with stamina for multiple hours of paddling each day.
Wildlife
History
The river corridor includes centuries-old market towns like Wallingford, with roots dating back to medieval trading routes along the Thames.
Conservation
Thames Canoe Hire promotes low-impact boating practices and supports river cleanup initiatives to preserve this vital waterway.
Thames Canoe Hire
Take on a two-day, 27-mile canoe journey from Abingdon to Reading with Thames Canoe Hire, navigating historic locks and charming riverside towns along the Thames.
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.
Location
Reading, England
Based at The Boat Yard on the Thames
Boat Types
Canoes, Kayaks, SUPs, Motorboats
Multiple craft for all skill levels
Group Capacity
Motor boats up to 6
Family and group friendly options
Trip Range
Half-day to seven-day
Short hires to multi-day adventures
Book canoes, kayaks, SUPs or motor boats — check availability for Henley, Windsor, Oxford and multi-day routes.
Prepare for Lock Navigation
Familiarize yourself with how to safely operate locks, as this trip includes eight; staff will brief you, but prior knowledge helps.
Stay Hydrated and Pack Light
Bring enough water and pack only essentials to keep your canoe balanced and your energy up across full paddling days.
Check Weather Forecasts
Weather can affect river conditions significantly; look for calm days for easier paddling and better overall experience.
Book Accommodations Early
Wallingford offers limited campsites and B&Bs; reserve spots ahead especially during peak season to avoid last-minute hassles.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
Mandatory for safety on the water during paddling and lock passages.
Waterproof Dry Bags
Protect your belongings from splashes and potential rain along the river.
Layered Clothing
Adjustable layers help manage temperature changes throughout the day and seasons.
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Lock Navigation Gloves
Gloves improve grip and protect hands when operating locks and handling ropes.