Thames Canoe Hire: Multi-Day Paddle from The Boat Yard to Maidenhead
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.
Overview
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.
Multi-Day Adventure: Thames Canoe Hire, The Boat Yard to Maidenhead
3 days • With collection service • Under 18 must be accompanied by an Adult 18+ •
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About This Adventure
Embark on a memorable three-day paddle from our base to Maidenhead, navigating 26 miles and 9 locks. Enjoy scenic views, cozy B&Bs, and a quirky pub stop at The Bounty. With expert staff support and safety briefings, this adventure promises relaxation and exploration along beautiful waterways.
A 3 day hire from our Base to Maidenhead. This is an extension of the 2 days hire to Marlow covering 26 miles and 9 locks.
Duration
3 Days
About
Day One This is the same as our “all day hire with collection” ending in Henley after about 11.5 miles and 4 locks with a choice of B&Bs for your overnight stay.
Day Two Marlow is about 8.5 miles paddle including another 4 locks so you can take it a little easier and enjoy the scenery with plenty of time to arrive at the agreed collection point.
Day Three
From the Day Two stopover at Marlow, the final day paddle covers about 7 miles and only 1 lock to arrive at Boulter’s Lock where our staff will meet you.
An interesting place to stop along the way is The Bounty public house at Bourne End, a quirky pub serving food as well as a good selection of snacks for you and the swans.
More info
You will be met by our staff at our base at The Boat Yard and they will give you a full safety briefing and get you kitted out with buoyancy aids, paddles and dry bags before helping you on to your boats to start your trip.
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans
- Kingfishers along quiet riverbanks
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
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 specific
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 specific