Paddle 26 miles and navigate nine locks on a three-day canoe trip from Reading to Maidenhead. Enjoy cozy B&Bs and a quirky riverside pub stop with expert staff support along the way.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for paddlers with basic fitness who can comfortably paddle several hours per day and handle lock operation.
Wildlife
History
The River Thames has been a critical trade and travel route for centuries, with many locks dating back to the 19th century to aid navigation.
Conservation
Thames Canoe Hire emphasizes low-impact paddling and encourages guests to respect local wildlife and maintain clean waterways.
Thames Canoe Hire
Paddle 26 miles and navigate nine locks on a three-day canoe trip from Reading to Maidenhead. Enjoy cozy B&Bs and a quirky riverside pub stop with expert staff support along the way.
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.
Lock Navigation Basics
Learn proper lock operation techniques during your safety briefing to ensure smooth progress and safety through all nine locks.
Pace Yourself
Cover distances in manageable daily segments—11.5, 8.5, then 7 miles—to balance exertion with sightseeing and rest.
Book Accommodation Early
Secure your B&B stays in Henley and Marlow ahead of time to avoid last-minute scrambling during peak season.
Pack for Variable Weather
Bring waterproof gear and layers, as British weather can shift quickly even along sheltered waterways.
Buoyancy Aid
Required for safety and provided by Thames Canoe Hire.
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and warm during unpredictable weather along the Thames.
spring|fall|winter
Dry Bags
Protects your gear from water; provided by the company but good to bring extras if needed.
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Important for sun protection on open stretches of river.
summer