7-Day Thames Canoeing Adventure with Thames Canoe Hire
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, prepared for daily paddling and lock management over extended distances.
Overview
Paddle 136 miles along England’s River Thames on a 7-day journey past historic castles, palaces, and 44 locks. Thames Canoe Hire offers a unique drop-off and collection trip that blends endurance with rich cultural landscapes.
Seven-Day Adventure with Drop and Collection
7 days • Under 18 must be accompanied by an Adult 18+ •
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 7-day paddle adventure from Cheese Wharf to Teddington, covering 136 miles and navigating 44 locks. Experience stunning scenery as you glide past historic landmarks like Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace, all while following the historic route of cheese transport from the 17th to 19th century.
For those wanting a marathon adventure, why not follow in the wake of barges from the end of the 17th Century to the start of the 19th Century that transported cheese to Teddington?
Duration
7 Days
About
Paddle approximately 136 miles and 44 locks to Teddington. This trip is a challenge and not for the inexperienced or faint hearted involving a drop-off at the National Trust site of Cheese Wharf followed by 7 days paddling to Teddington, the last lock on the non-tidal Thames. Cheese Wharf, Lechlade to Teddington Our staff will meet you at Cheese Wharf and prior to starting your trip you will be given a full safety briefing and get kitted out with buoyancy aids, paddles and dry bags. You will then be helped on to your boat to start your adventure. As you paddle along the 135 miles of river you will have 44 locks to navigate and different scenery to take in whilst traveling past Oxford, Goring, Reading, Maidenhead, Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace and many more places along the way. Our staff will be there to meet you and collect the boats when you finish your journey at Teddington.
Adventure Tips
Prepare for Lock Navigation
Familiarize yourself with basic lock operation and safety; there are 44 locks on this trip, requiring patience and technique.
Pack Light but Smart
Use waterproof dry bags provided and bring only essential gear to stay dry and agile on your canoeing route.
Stay Hydrated and Fueled
Carry enough water and high-energy snacks – some stretches between towns can be long and physically demanding.
Check Weather Forecasts
Weather along the Thames can shift quickly; dress in layers and prepare for rain or sunshine accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kingfishers dart along the water’s edge.
- Mute swans gracefully navigate calmer stretches of the river.
History
This route follows the historic cheese transport path from the 1600s to early 1800s, a vital trade artery for local agricultural economies.
Conservation
Thames Canoe Hire supports sustainable waterway use by encouraging leave-no-trace paddling practices to protect river ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Dry Bags
Protects your essential gear from river spray and rain throughout the multi-day journey.
Life Jacket / Buoyancy Aid
Provided by Thames Canoe Hire, a buoyancy aid is critical for safety on the river.
Layered Clothing
Flexible layers help regulate body temperature in fluctuating spring weather.
spring specific
Sun Protection (hat, sunscreen)
Necessary during sunny summer days to prevent sunburn and heat stress.
summer specific